October 2024 Round-Up

As we wrap up October, I am proud to recognize the rich diversity and resilience that make California an incredible state. This month, we honored several important causes and communities contributing to our collective strength and well-being. From raising public health and safety awareness to celebrating cultural heritage, let’s take this time to reflect on the progress we’ve made and the work that still lies ahead. 

October was National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to pay tribute to those who have battled this devastating disease. In California, we stand with the survivors, honor the lives lost, and recommit ourselves to advancing research and offering support to those in need.  

We also celebrated Filipino American History Month, recognizing our state’s rich heritage and the immeasurable contributions of over 1.5 million Filipino Americans. California is home to the largest Filipino community in the U.S.; their culture, talent, and resilience are woven into our state’s success. 

This month, we observed Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a solemn reminder that more than 12 million people are affected by domestic violence each year. We must continue raising our voices against these acts of violence, ensuring that no one suffers in silence. If you or someone you know needs help, remember that you are not alone—reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at (800) 799-SAFE.  

October is full of reflection, celebration, and action, from celebrating LGBTQ+ History Month and Indigenous Peoples Day to honoring National Manufacturing Week and the Diwali festival. Let’s continue working together to build a stronger, more inclusive future for all Californians.  

Eleni Kounalakis
Lieutenant Governor of California

$10 Million in Federal Funding to Support California Small Businesses 

I had the privilege of joining U.S. Deputy Secretary of the Treasury Wally Adeyemo in announcing a $10 million award to the California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA) through the Biden-Harris Administration’s  State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) Investing in America Small Business Opportunity Program (SBOP). This funding, in partnership with $16.25 million in matching state funds, will support CalOSBA’s Procurement & Innovation Capital Leadership for Entrepreneurs (PINNACLE) program. This initiative will provide technical support and capital readiness training to over 5,000 California businesses, especially those owned by women and people of color, helping entrepreneurs thrive in critical industries like clean energy and infrastructure. 

Read the Full Press Release regarding the announcement.  

2024 Priority Legislation Signed by Governor Newsom 

This month, I was proud to share that Governor Newsom signed several critical pieces of legislation I co-sponsored and supported in 2024. These bills cover vital issues, including expanding access to reproductive healthcare, improving protections under Title IX in our higher education system, and addressing California’s plastic waste crisis with a ban on plastic bags. Together, these legislative efforts advance our commitment to equity, sustainability, and ensuring essential services for all Californians. I am deeply grateful to the Governor and the Legislature for their leadership in moving our state forward. 

Read the Press Release for the complete list of bills.  

Tribal Land Back Celebration 

In recognition of Indigenous People’s Week, I had the privilege of joining the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria and local leaders to celebrate the historic transfer of Dillon Beach Ranch to the tribe. This transfer puts this beautiful 466-acre land back in the hands of its original stewards and marks a milestone for conservation and sustainability in partnership with California’s tribal communities. 

Clinic by the Bay Tour  

I was honored to join state and community leaders, local partners, and dedicated volunteers for the grand opening celebration of the new Clinic by the Bay location in San Francisco’s Excelsior District. For fourteen years, Clinic by the Bay has filled a crucial need in California by providing access to free healthcare services. Many Clinic by the Bay patients don’t qualify for government assistance but don’t earn enough for private insurance. The new space will provide expanded services like a free pharmacy and dental clinic, meeting an even greater need. Together, we’re ensuring thousands of uninsured Bay Area residents can access the essential care they need and deserve. 

EQCA’s 25th Anniversary Awards  

I was honored to celebrate 25 years of courageous leadership with Equality California, the nation’s largest statewide LGBTQ+ civil rights organization with over 900,000 members. EQCA is vital in amplifying the voices of LGBTQ+ individuals and allies, advocating for civil rights and social justice at local, state, and national levels. While we’ve made significant progress here in California, we must remain vigilant against efforts to roll back our freedoms. Together, we can continue to work toward a future where every individual is free to make decisions about their bodies and love who they want to love. 

National Student Transfer Week 

This month, we recognized National Student Transfer Week, an annual event dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the unique experiences, achievements, and challenges faced by transfer students. Since 2019, I’ve sponsored and supported historic legislation to help streamline the transfer process from California’s community colleges to a four-year institution, aimed to eliminate equity gaps and promote student success. Thanks to the leadership and partnership from members of the state legislature and the Newsom Administration, California has enacted transformative reforms prioritizing equity, access, and student success.  

Read the Press Release for the complete list of bills I’ve sponsored and supported to help streamline the transfer process.