March 2025 Round-Up
As we close out the first quarter of 2025, I am filled with optimism and pride for all we have accomplished this year. March was a month of celebration, reflection, and progress for California. We honored Women’s History Month, uplifting the trailblazing women who have shaped our state and continue to break barriers today. We also recognized Ramadan, celebrating our Muslim communities’ resilience, faith, and contributions across California.
On César Chávez Day, we reflected on the legacy of a leader who fought tirelessly for farmworkers’ rights, reminding us of the power of collective action. On International Transgender Day of Visibility, we reaffirmed our commitment to equality and inclusion—especially here in California, where I was proud to establish the nation’s first Transgender Advisory Council to uplift and support our transgender community.
Beyond these celebrations, we have been hard at work advancing policies that make a real difference in the lives of Californians. I’m proud to co-sponsor AB 379, a crucial bill to combat human trafficking by strengthening enforcement, prevention, and efforts to reduce demand. Additionally, AB 1154 will streamline the permitting process for Junior and Accessory Dwelling Units (JADUs & ADUs), reducing costs and increasing housing options—critical steps in addressing California’s housing crisis.
With so much happening in our great state, I’m excited to share that our office’s website has been revamped! If you’ve ever wondered what a Lieutenant Governor does, check out the video above and visit ltg.ca.gov to learn more about my role, our initiatives, and our work to move California forward. I can’t wait to see what the rest of 2025 brings. Let’s keep building a stronger, more inclusive California together!
Eleni Kounalakis
Lieutenant Governor of California
California State University Campus Tours
On March 13th, I had the privilege of visiting Sonoma State University (SSU) and California State University East Bay (CSUEB), marking my 19th and 20th visits to CSU campuses. As Chair of the Board of Trustees for all three of California’s public higher education systems, I prioritize ensuring that our institutions of higher learning remain accessible, affordable, and world-class.
I started the morning at SSU, where I had the opportunity to meet with Interim President Emily Cutrer, the University Cabinet, and student leadership to discuss how we can continue to support our students. Located in Rohnert Park, California, in the heart of Sonoma County’s wine country, SSU offers the Wine Business Institute, one of the first programs of its kind in the U.S. The Wine Business Institute is a hub for innovation and collaboration among faculty, students, and the wine business community. It conducts cutting-edge research that shapes industry best practices and enhances its program curriculum.
I then finished the day at CSUEB, where I met with President Cathy Sandeen, faculty, and campus leaders shaping the future of higher education. I toured their CORE Learning Commons, which opened in 2022 and is an academic and student support hub that serves as a library, learning center, and collaborative space designed to support student success.
National Women in Construction Week
This Month, I joined Sacramento Regional Builders Exchange (SRBX), Construction Industry Education Foundation (CIEF), and state and local leaders to celebrate National Women in Construction Week with a special ceremony on the West Steps of the Capitol. The event highlighted women’s contributions within the industry and our unions and the barriers broken in a male-dominated workforce.
Climate Partnership with Sonora, Mexico
I was honored to join Governor Gavin Newsom in welcoming Governor Alfonso Durazo of Sonora, Mexico, and his delegation to California to sign a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on climate change and trade. This partnership highlights the shared commitment between California and Sonora to combat climate change and promote sustainable, clean energy practices. We are setting a powerful example of binational cooperation in the clean energy transition by expanding renewable electricity generation, enhancing energy efficiency, and strengthening supply chains for critical clean energy components.
Legislative Women’s Caucus Special Floor Ceremony
It was a pleasure to honor Esta Soler today at the California Legislative Women’s Caucus’ 2025 Woman of the Year ceremony. Esta has been a leader in ending violence against women and children and has dedicated her life to social justice. She was a driving force behind the landmark 1994 Violence Against Women Act. She founded the Futures Without Violence organization, which is building the nation’s first-ever Courage Museum in San Francisco.
Greek Independence Day Celebration
This month, I was honored to join Mayor Daniel Lurie and Consul General Tassiopoulos at San Francisco City Hall to celebrate the 204th anniversary of Greek independence. As a proud Greek American, I hold this day with deep significance—honoring the bravery of those who fought for Greece’s freedom and the enduring contributions of the Greek community here in California. Greece’s legacy as the birthplace of democracy continues to inspire our shared values. It was a privilege to participate in the flag-raising ceremony and later attend the official reception to mark this special occasion. Singharitieria ‘yia olous!
