54th District Assemblymember Holly Mitchell (D-Culver City), serving her second term in public office, has been elected Chair of the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC).
Mitchell, who won reelection in the newly formed 54th District on Nov. 6, will take on her new role as chair of the Caucus in the 2013-2014 session.
The Caucus, which addresses policy and budgetary issues affecting black Californians, consists of the nine African American members of the state’s Legislature, including two Senators and seven members of the Assembly. Mitchell served as Caucus secretary in her first two-year term.
“I am honored to be chosen Chair by my peers and excited about the opportunity to lead the Black Caucus,” Mitchell said in an official release. As Assemblymember for the newly formed 54th District, Mitchell oversees an area that includes historically black neighborhoods including the Crenshaw District, parts of South Los Angeles and Ladera Heights.
“We will speak out on issues and pursue solutions to problems which disproportionately impact African Americans – poverty, the education deficit, the need for jobs, and barriers to opportunity,” Mitchell said.
In addition to coordinating legislative efforts on African American concerns, the Caucus makes recommendations to the Governor on the annual budget proposal, sponsors forums and raises scholarship funds. The Caucus is also a core member of the Quint Caucus, a coalition of the Asian-Pacific Islander, Latino, LGBT and Women’s legislative caucuses, which articulates broad minority group concerns and promotes mutual cooperation.
“I expect to focus serious attention on the needs of black families and children,” Mitchell added. “The future is at stake – we’re rolling up our sleeves!”
