Democratic Women in the California State Legislature to Grow in Diversity, Numbers

Democratic Women in the California State Legislature to Grow in Diversity, Numbers

Sacramento, CA – When the Legislature is sworn in for 2017, the number of Latina women in the Assembly will double from five to ten. The number of women in the Assembly will also grow from eleven to fourteen.

Over the last two years, members of the Legislative Women’s Caucus have worked to identify, recruit, and help strong women leaders in California all in preparation for this cycle. This election is the result of those efforts, and, while gains were made in the Assembly, it’s time for a big push to move the Senate and get more women in statewide office.

“This hard-fought election revealed a lot of deeply-rooted sexism in our nation and our local communities. I am proud of the women of California standing together in the face of this barrage of negativity,” said Caucus Vice Chair Cristina Garcia. “Despite any differences that may have arisen during this campaign, I am confident that California is stronger today than it was yesterday, and I look forward to building on that strength with the newest members of our Legislature.”

Chair of the Caucus, Senator Hannah Beth Jackson added “Women comprise more than half our state, and women hold up half the sky. When we have more women in the Legislature, they bring perspectives, priorities and diversity to policy-making that have been missing or muffled for far too long. In this historic election year, one that’s been marred by a shockingly sexist Presidential campaign, the election of more women to the California State Legislature is a cause for great celebration, and I cannot wait to work with these new, innovative leaders next year.”

The Legislative Women’s Caucus represents and advocates on behalf of the diverse interests of women, children and families throughout California. It seeks to increase participation and representation of women in state government. Members of the Legislative Women’s Caucus seek to promote sound legislative policies and budget priorities that will improve the well-being of women, children and families and to work cooperatively with local, state and national women’s organizations interested in advancing policies to achieve these same objectives.

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