Blog

As many of us struggle to make sense of the 2016 election results and it’s implications for our communities we wanted to offer up some positive news of the victories for racial and educational justice in California that were possible because young people organized and turned out to vote. These victories are a reminder that we all have the power and duty to fight and organize to create the future we want for ourselves, our families, and our community. Here are some key highlights:

• Over 100 CFJ youth leaders called, knocked on doors, and rallied in their communities to get 6,384 young people of color out to vote across the state
  • Our volunteers and canvassers spoke to first-time voters who thanked them for the information and encouragement we gave them, and every day they were able to change someone’s mind about the importance of the youth vote
• Voters showed that they want to prioritize spending on schools not jails with over 60% supporting the passage of Props 55 & 57:
  • Prop 55 extends critical funding to schools, especially schools serving low-income, immigrant, and foster care students
  • Prop 57 changes the rules allowing youth to be sentenced to adult prisons
• The ban on bilingual education was overturned with overwhelming support (70% of voters), bringing an end to Prop 227 which CFJ fought against in the late 90s
• Key local measures passed in Oakland, San Jose, Fresno, and Long Beach that address housing, workers rights, transportation, and school facilities

To call attention to the final day of our #IAm1000Votes campaign, CFJ youth held actions in Fresno, Long Beach, Oakland, and San Jose yesterday to remind people to vote. Youth showed that even though they are too young to vote, they aren’t too young to care. Their dedication and energy throughout the election season was a reminder that we have to be willing to take action to create the future we want. Thank you to the volunteers, ally organizations, donors, canvassers, staff, and youth who put in hundreds of hours to get young voters of color to take back the vote. Let’s keep the fight going, now more than ever!