“I have the right to protection. I have the right to live with my parents. I have the right to live without fear. I have the right to be happy.”
― Sophie Cruz, advocate for immigration reform, 6-years old
Echoing the 6-year wise immigration advocate Sophie Cruz, we at Bright Beginnings also believe that all children have the right to what they need to succeed in school and in life. Over the last weeks and months, individuals and organizations have been rising to speak up for public investment in early childhood development in alignment with our values and core principles.
Our gratitude goes to supporters: Marquise Davis (YWCA Monterey County), Daisy Hernandez (Community Action Partnership of San Luis Obispo County, Inc.), Joel Hernandez (local resident), Eliza Gomez (Quality Matters Monterey), and Las Mamás & Padres Unidos members Gabriela Silva, Alma Loredo, Maria Carmen Parra, and Mari-Trini Sanchez.
Each recently voiced their support to the Monterey County Board of Supervisors and the Alisal District Board of Trustees, and in partnership with the Central Coast Advocacy Network, joined legislative visits with Assemblymember Robert Rivas and Senators Anna Caballero and Bill Monning.
You, too, can engage. Here are two ways:
- Public Comment at the Board of Supervisors meeting tomorrow (Tuesday, June 23, shortly after 1:30pm): The Board will vote on the recommended county budget for fiscal year 2020-2021 (Item 17). This includes vital funding for Bright Beginnings to conduct trauma-informed practices, capacity building, expansion of the Family Friendly Business program, and the next school readiness assessment. The Board agenda is here – see how to comment virtually within the first pages (it’s easy!).
- Join the Central Coast Early Childhood Advocacy Network: You’ll have access to the latest legislative information and leadership workshops for community advocacy, like the one held last December on storytelling. Email Nina Alcaraz, First 5 Monterey County, to sign up.