Pasadena Journal publishers Joe and Ruthie Hopkins were recognized by the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC) as the 41st Assembly District’s “2018 Unsung Heroes” as civil rights pioneers in the San Gabriel Valley. The couple was honored at the CLBC’s Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Breakfast in Sacramento.
“Joe and Ruthie Hopkins are pillars of the Black community in the San Gabriel Valley,” said Assemblymember Chris Holden, Chair of the California Legislative Black Caucus. “They continue the work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. through their voices and actions.”
Joe and Ruthie Hopkins co-own and publish the Pasadena/San Gabriel Valley Journal News, the area’s only African-American owned and oriented newspapers since 1989. The Journal addresses serious issues and concerns facing the Black community including hiring practices, lack of diversity, and racism in city governments, city departments, and law enforcement. It is through the ongoing advocacy of Joe and Ruthie Hopkins, and community support, the Tournament of Roses will have it first African-American president in 2019.
The annual MLK Breakfast in Sacramento featured veteran Democratic Political Strategist Donna Brazile as the Keynote Speaker, with additional remarks from Senate pro Tempore Kevin de Leon, and members of the CLBC.
