Opinion

SB 1254: Breaking Down Barriers to Food Access for Justice-Impacted Californians

When Governor Newsom signed SB 1254 into law this fall, California took a major step in addressing food insecurity. Also known as the FRESH Act, this critical piece of legislation will open up doors for thousands of Californians by streamlining access to SNAP/CalFresh. In a legislative session marked by a significant number of vetoes, the approval of this bill stands out as a meaningful win for the people of our state.

Finding Peace in the Chaos: A Holiday Guide for Our Community

The holidays are meant to be a time of joy, love, and connection. To be honest—sometimes, they’re anything but. For many of us, the season can bring its share of stress, family tensions, and difficult conversations. Whether it’s arguing over personal decisions, cultural traditions, or even political debates, the weight of these moments can feel exhausting.

“Who Are You?” Part 2 

“I am the living God,” Shimeon Kaypha (Simon Peter) answered. This was Shimeon Kaypha’s response to Yeshua when He asked, upon arriving in the region of Caesarea Philippi, “What do people say about me, the Son of Man?” 

Wrapped in Swaddling Clothes 

As for me and my house, Jesus is the reason for the season. As the story goes, Jesus came into this world with humble beginnings, was wrapped in swaddling clothes, and was laid in a manager because there was no room for him in the inn.  

Reckoning with Race and Building Trust Between Black Families and Child Welfare 

As we reflect on the long history of harm inflicted on Black families by child welfare policies, we must reject these narratives that perpetuate systemic racism and move toward genuinely equitable, intentional policies that acknowledge race and reckon with our history of racial inequity. 

“Who Is This?” 

Ahiah Ashur High (I AM WHO I AM).  It’s the sixth day before Passover, the final six days before the crucifixion of Jesus. As he approaches Jerusalem from Jericho, the crowds are in a state of wonderment. Many have heard of him and the miraculous works he performed, but now they are seeing him in person.  

What is it About the Holidays? 

 
The word “holiday” originates from an old English term meaning “holy day.” Over the years, however, much of the holiness has been lost, and holidays have become more secular.  

Absolutely Wicked 

One could say we live in wicked times, literally and figuratively. The word wicked has multiple meanings and could be considered an oxymoron. Depending on who and how it is being used, it could mean something is evil or morally wrong, but if someone refers to something as wickedly good, it usually means extremely good. 

Symbols and Insights of Kwanzaa: Deep Meanings and Expansive Message

This year and each year, the coming of Kwanzaa causes us to come together in celebration, remembrance, reflection and recommitment. And it also urges us to constantly study and learn the deep meanings and expansive message of Kwanzaa, not only in its grounding philosophy, Kawaida, and its core Seven Principles (Nguzo Saba), but also in its symbols. 

It’s Okay to be Black First    

 Can we have an honest adult conversation about what’s going on in this country and the world?  I think it’s time for us to be honest with each other and talk to each other as adults, not like little children.