Assembly member Holly Mitchell remembers the moment she decided to run for office. The head of a major childcare agency, she flew to the Capitol to testify in favor of increased funding for childcare services, only to find that the three legislators had little understanding of the issue, and even less interest in learning more. “I can’t believe you three are in charge of this for the whole state—you have no idea what’s going on!” she remembers thinking.
So Mitchell ran and won, and has become one of the state’s most successful legislators, tackling many of the issues crucial to Los Angeles—and to the Jewish community—and working to restore funding for healthcare, early childhood education, mental health services, and other social safety net programs on which Angelenos depend.
Mitchell was elected in 2010 and represents many Jews in a district that includes the Fairfax District, Century City, Culver City, and parts of South L.A. On Friday, she held a frank conversation with Jewish leaders about some of the most pressing issues facing Los Angeles and California at an event sponsored by The Jewish Federation’s Community Engagement Strategic Initiative. Mitchell spoke about the need for the community to engage in the civic and political process, and to understand the challenges facing underserved communities and at-risk residents hit hard by recent state budget cuts.
The event was part of the initiative’s Community Engagement Council (CEC), which gives Angelenos an opportunity to become part of the work we do to improve our city. CEC members participate in exclusive events and meet with top political and thought leaders. Members shape the future of our city by engaging in robust service and volunteer opportunities, combating illiteracy, fighting hunger, affecting policy, and advocating for Israel. For more information, contact CEC@JewishLA.org or call (323) 761-8163.
