John,

As the first California Indian to be elected to the State Assembly, I understand the value of diverse perspectives coming together to make change. California has more Native people than any other state, and yet for too long, our voices have been absent in the policy discussions that shape California’s future.

When I was in school, my teacher played a drum song in class and asked the Native American children to explain the song to our classmates. However, the song was not part of our tribal culture, Serrano/Cahuilla. When we tried to explain that to the teacher, instead of listening, she scoffed and said “Well, sit down. You must not be Indian enough.” There are so many myths and lack of knowledge about Native Americans. We are many people with different music, food, language, art, and traditions.

This is why I feel a deep sense of obligation to increase awareness about California Native cultures and history, improve the tribal-state relationship, and advocate for California’s first people. During my time in the Legislature, I have championed legislation to reform our school curriculum to more accurately teach California Indian culture, history, and the many contributions of the First People, increase Native American voter participation, fight the epidemic of missing and murdered indigenous women and girls, and so much more.

We all have different backgrounds and lived experiences that benefit our state. As California Democrats, we need to harness this power and recruit diverse candidates who will bring their perspectives to the table and make much-needed change.

John, will you join me in donating to the California Democratic Party’s Organizing Fund today? Every dollar donated will help recruit a diverse pool of candidates to run for office, and then get out the vote to help them win.

I ran for office to find common-sense solutions to our state’s most pressing problems, whether it's tackling homelessness, increasing jobs, keeping our communities safe, or improving education. But I also get to be a voice for California’s Native communities within the halls of power for the first time.

I may be the first, but I most certainly will not be the last.

- James

DONATE » Our Democratic leaders are working hard to make California a better place to live. From fighting for good-paying jobs, combating climate change, to expanding healthcare access so all Californians can lead safe, healthy, prosperous lives — California’s Democratic leaders turn progressive ideas into meaningful action.

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