Changemakers of the community. (B. Rene)

In response to recent negative press surrounding the California Legislative Black Caucus’s Reparations proposal, community leaders and non-profit organizations across District 35 have come together to voice their unwavering support and gratitude for Senator Steven Bradford’s dedication to improving the lives of underserved communities. This press release serves to address the misrepresentation of facts and to highlight the profound impact Senator Bradford has made throughout his tenure.     

Senator Bradford, vice-president of the California Legislative Black Caucus, has been at the forefront of the fight for reparations, advocating for justice for the Black communities of California. Despite full support from the Legislative Black Caucus during the development of the reparations proposal, internal disagreements within the Caucus have delayed the initiative from reaching the Governor’s desk for approval. Some have wrongfully placed blame solely on Senator Bradford for the delay.

However, the organizations that have directly benefited from his leadership stand as a testament to his resilience, tenacity, and unwavering commitment to positive change. A powerful compilation of interviews, directed by me, executive director of EECI, has been produced to emphasize the profound impact of Senator Bradford’s work.

This compilation features testimonials from numerous community leaders, non-profit organizations, and key figures including Jenny Krusoe of AltaSea Los Angeles 15th District Councilmember Tim McOsker, Barbara Sullivan of Angels For Sight, Mac Shorty of Community Repower Movement, Del Richardson of Just Work Inc., Andre Joseph of Young Gentlemen’s Foundation, Earl “Skip” Cooper of The Black Business Association, Casper Andrews of Against All Odds, EECI Program Directors and others.   

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These interviews showcase the breadth of Senator Bradford’s achievements in securing grants and resources for vital community programs and initiatives. Under his leadership, countless individuals have experienced positive change, with lasting impacts on the economic, educational, and social infrastructure of District 35.

The reparations proposal that Senator Bradford is championing is not about charity; it represents a debt owed to the generations of Black communities for the wage theft and discrimination they endured. This is a fight for justice and Senator Bradford’s resolve has not wavered.

The support from community members and organizations affirms the transformative work being done through Senator Bradford’s guidance. His commitment to reparations is a call for justice not only for California but as a model for the entire nation.

This collaboration of community voices serves as a strong message of gratitude, faith, and ongoing support for Senator Bradford. Together, they stand firm in their belief that, with his leadership, the fight for reparations and equity for the underserved will not be in vain.

The backing from people in the community and various organizations confirms the efforts led by Senator Bradford’s direction. The dedication to reparations serves as a plea for fairness not within California but as an example for the entire country.

EECI’s upcoming event is the Gaming and Animation Summit on Saturday, Sept. 28, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Senator Bradford Global Communications Center located at 555 W. Redondo Beach Blvd., in Gardena. This event is at no cost – it’s open to all! The summit will highlight the developments in the gaming and animation industries in addition to career steps and employment opportunities within this $108B industry. The summit will play a role in education and fostering community connections—a testament to the valuable work of Senator Bradford.  

Save the dates: Get Out The Vote and Reparations Town Hall Meeting on Saturday, Oct. 12 and Saturday, Oct. 19, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Senator Bradford Global Communication Center, 555 W. Redondo Beach Blvd. in Gardena.

Barbara Stanton is the executive director of the Entrepreneur Educational Center, Inc (EECI).