February 2026 Round-Up
February offered moments of reflection, celebration, and global connection across California. As Ramadan began, I extended my warmest wishes to Muslims throughout our state and around the world. We also marked Ash Wednesday, the start of Lent for many Christians. This season calls us to prayer, fasting, and reflection as communities prepare for Easter.
Californians also welcomed the Lunar New Year, celebrating the traditions and cultures of the more than six million Asian American and Pacific Islander residents who call our state home and help shape its future every day. We honored Presidents’ Day by remembering that our nation was founded on the promise that power belongs to the people, not kings. We reflected on the leaders who worked to uphold that ideal.
February also brought opportunities to uplift progress and courage. On the International Day of Women and Girls in STEM, we celebrated the scientists, engineers, and innovators powering California’s future and recommitted ourselves to closing the gender gap and expanding opportunity. We also honored the enduring legacy of Rosa Parks, whose bravery continues to inspire the ongoing fight for justice and equality.
As we look ahead, I remain committed to working alongside communities across California to expand opportunity, protect our democratic values, and ensure that everyone has a real chance to succeed. Our future is strongest when we move forward together.
Eleni Kounalakis
Lieutenant Governor of California
Honoring Black History, Past and Present
February marked the beginning of Black History Month, a time to honor the achievements, leadership, and lasting impact of Black Americans in California and across the nation. This year, we reflected on the life and legacy of Claudette Colvin, a civil rights pioneer whose courage helped inspire the Montgomery Bus Boycott. Her recent passing reminds us that progress is built on the bravery of everyday people. Throughout the month, we recommit to lifting up Black voices, telling these stories fully, and advancing equity in every corner of our state.
California Takes the Global Stage at Super Bowl LX
California proudly welcomed the world for Super Bowl LX at Levi’s Stadium, hosting more than 90,000 fans in the Bay Area. From innovation to entertainment, this was California at its best. The halftime show, headlined by Bad Bunny, celebrated not only music but also his Puerto Rican roots, showcasing the richness of cultural heritage and the power of representation on a global stage. The event highlighted California’s ability to deliver world-class sporting and cultural experiences that bring people together.
The morning after the game, I was honored to represent our state at the NFL’s official hand-off press conference. California made history as the first state to host consecutive Super Bowls in two different cities, from Santa Clara in 2026 to Inglewood in 2027. From one stretch of the Pacific coast to another, California continues to lead. With FIFA World Cup matches on the horizon and the Los Angeles Olympics coming in 2028, we are proud to show the world that California does not just host the biggest events on Earth. We define them.
Standing With Workers Who Keep Our Campuses Running
I was proud to stand and march alongside Teamsters Local 2010 at a strike kickoff rally at San Francisco State University. The skilled trades workers, facilities staff, and education employees represented by Local 2010 are the backbone of the California State University system. They keep campuses safe, functional, and focused on student success.
I was there for one clear reason: Workers deserve fair contracts, and commitments must be honored. These employees, alongside their sister unions, make it possible for our students to receive a world class education. I am grateful for their advocacy, their service, and their continued fight for dignity and fairness on the job.
Celebrating California and Japan Friendship and Partnership
It was an honor to serve as the featured speaker at the Japanese Consul General’s National Day Reception celebrating the birthday of Emperor Naruhito. This gathering was a powerful reminder that the relationship between California and Japan is one of the most dynamic subnational partnerships in the world. Japan remains one of California’s most important global partners, with Japanese investments supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs and driving collaboration in clean energy, advanced manufacturing, and emerging technologies. Our partnership is rooted in shared democratic values, innovation, and more than a century of people-to-people ties.
Honoring Music, Culture, and Community at City Hall
I was proud to celebrate Los Tigres Del Norte at San Francisco City Hall for their legendary music and lifelong advocacy for Latino and immigrant communities. Their songs tell stories of resilience, migration, and hope. Those stories resonate deeply across California and far beyond our borders. Recognizing their legacy was a reminder of culture’s power to unite communities and give voice to shared experiences.
Oakland Rings in Lunar New Year
I had the honor of serving as Grand Marshal of Oakland’s 4th Annual Lunar New Year Parade, celebrating the vibrant culture, community, and heritage of Chinatown. The parade was a wonderful reminder of the resilience, diversity, and contributions of Asian American communities across California. It was especially inspiring to celebrate local Olympian Alysa Liu, represented by her dad at the parade, highlighting her Bay Area roots and incredible achievements on the world stage. Celebrating these traditions and accomplishments together makes me proud to call California home. Gong Hei Fat Choi!