Creating Change
March 2025
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STAND UP AND SPEAK OUT EVENT |
Join Senator Josh Becker, special guest Congressman Kevin Mullin, and other elected officials and education leaders on April 5 for a gathering to support local public education!
Learn about the Presidential Administration’s proposed changes to the Department of Education and how they may impact students in California. With potential budget cuts at the federal level, we may see fewer resources for our most vulnerable students—larger class sizes, fewer special education services for students with disabilities, and diminished civil rights protections. Additionally, changes to student loan applications and processing could make life harder for working Californians who have taken on student debt to pursue higher education.
Let’s RECLAIM A PUBLIC GOOD! Please join us to stand up and speak out for our schools!
Event Details:
Saturday, April 5
10:30 - 11:30 a.m.
500 County Center, Redwood City
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STANFORD LAW SCHOOL SYMPOSIUM |
Pictured here: Senator Becker and Attorney General Bonta.
I recently convened a symposium with Stanford Law School to discuss navigating through emerging legal issues between California and the federal government. With this second term underway, we gathered legal experts, policymakers, and advocates to address critical issues like immigration, reproductive rights, civil rights, and environmental policy.
California Attorney General Rob Bonta emphasized our state's leading role in defending civil rights and privacy protections. Environmental law experts joined me to discuss strategies for preserving California’s clean energy policies amid federal challenges. Panels on immigration, civil rights, and reproductive rights highlighted California’s commitment to protecting vulnerable communities and advancing progressive policies. These conversations made clear that California must remain proactive in safeguarding our values, and I’m committed to ensuring our state leads the way.
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STANDING UP FOR CALIFORNIA TOWN HALL |
Off the heels of my Stanford Law Symposium, I held a town hall on how to protect California amidst overreach from the federal government. In three hours we had over 200 RSVPs and had to shut down at 250 attendees. I’m grateful to everyone who came out, including San Mateo County Supervisor Ray Mueller and Santa Clara County Supervisor Margaret Abe-Koga who spoke passionately about the potential local impacts of these federal actions. I’m thrilled that hundreds came to hear how we can protect Peninsula values with everything happening in Washington DC. We heard from local leaders about the challenges our counties are facing from the Trump Administration and discussed practical and focused solutions. We need to stay vigilant and engaged as we work together to safeguard critical California healthcare and other programs.
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HOLI AND PURIM CELEBRATIONS |
Earlier this month, I had the unique opportunity to celebrate two vibrant festivals—Holi and Purim—on the same day, highlighting the rich cultural diversity of Senate District 13 and the shared values that unite our communities. Holi, the Hindu festival of colors, marks the arrival of spring and celebrates joy, renewal, and the triumph of good over evil. Traditionally observed with bright powders, music, and dance, Holi brings people together in a joyful display of unity, reminding us of the power of love and inclusion. Purim, a Jewish holiday commemorating the resilience and courage of the Jewish people, is a time of joy, generosity, and storytelling. With costumes, festive meals, and giving to those in need, Purim reinforces the values of justice, perseverance, and community solidarity. Holi and Purim teach us to embrace joy, support one another, and celebrate the resilience of our communities. These values are not just for a single day—they are what make our district, our state, and our country thrive.
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SARATOGA IFTAR |
I was honored to join the Saratoga community for a beautiful Iftar celebration, where we came together in the spirit of reflection, unity, and gratitude. Thank you, Mayor Belal Aftab, for the warm invitation and for bringing people of all backgrounds together to share in this special tradition. Breaking bread with neighbors is a powerful reminder of the strength in our diversity and the importance of listening to and uplifting every voice in our community.
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WOMEN OF THE YEAR CEREMONY |
Pictured here: Republican Leader Brian Jones, Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis, Honoree Olga Melo, Senator Josh Becker, Senator Monique Limón, and President pro Tempore Mike McGuire.
On March 10, the Senate hosted the annual Women of the Year ceremony, honoring women throughout the state for their distinguished leadership and service. I am proud to announce that Olga Melo is the 2025 Woman of the Year for Senate District 13 for her extraordinary leadership and dedication to uplifting the Latino community in Mountain View and beyond. Melo, a longtime advocate for social justice, co-founded the Community Action Team to promote education, healthcare, and civic engagement. She co-founded the Mountain View Community Land Trust Co-Founder at MV Solidarity Fund and worked tirelessly during the COVID-19 pandemic to connect vulnerable families with life-saving resources. Her leadership has changed lives. Her dedication to equity and community empowerment is an inspiration. I am also incredibly proud that, as we commemorate Women’s History Month, the Senate has reached parity with a majority of Senators being women.
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CSM BULLDOGS HONORED IN SACRAMENTO |
Pictured here: Senator Becker introducing the CSM Bulldogs on the Senate Floor and in the Chamber.
Congratulations to the CSM Bulldogs for their CCCAA State Championship victory! Beyond their athletic success, these student athletes have excelled in academics, maintaining a teamwide GPA of 3.4, with several players achieving a perfect 4.0. Their dedication on and off the field showcases the discipline and perseverance needed to balance studies and sports. To honor their achievement, the team will be recognized at the California State Capitol and presented with a State Legislative Resolution. This success reflects the outstanding coaching staff and supportive SMCCCD community. I look forward to seeing more championships—both academic and athletic—in the future!
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PENINSULA PRIDE PHOTOGRAPHY CONTEST |
I’m thrilled to announce the winners of this year’s Peninsula Proud Photography Contest! This year, we received hundreds of inspiring images that showcase the breathtaking landscapes, vibrant communities, and dedicated individuals that make our district so special. I’m honored to recognize this year’s winners, whose work captures the essence of our home:
- Eric Corpuz, Foster City – "Christmas Morning - Dawn in Foster City"
- George Bordi, La Honda – "Teamwork: A challenging emergency medical rescue deep in the redwoods near Portola State Park succeeded thanks to the La Honda Fire Brigade, CAL FIRE Skylonda, American Medical Response, Stanford Life Flight, and San Mateo County Sheriff working together."
- Matt McWright, Atherton – "Day Breaks On the Colony"
These stunning photographs will be proudly displayed in my Capitol Office in Sacramento, and I’m excited to share them with all of you. You can view the winning photographs here. Thank you to everyone who participated, and I can’t wait to see more of your incredible work next year!
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IN THE NEWS |
Bay Area Jews and Hindus celebrate joint Holi-Purim event
(News India, March 13, 2025)
Senator Josh Becker announces winners of the 2025 Peninsula Proud Photography Contest
InMendlo, March 11, 2025)
State champ CSM Bulldogs honored
(San Mateo Daily Journal, March 8, 2025)
Stanford implements hiring freeze amid concerns over cuts to funding
(ABC 7, March 3, 2025)
Streamlined regional energy market in works
(San Mateo Daily Journal, March 3, 2025)
Attorneys vow to ‘fight back’ on immigration in Trump era
(February 26, 2025, Palo Alto Online)
New state bill looks to block bias in ethnic studies by standardizing courses
(JWeekly, February 24, 2025)
As always, please don’t hesitate to contact my office if I can be of assistance to you.
Sincerely,
Senator Josh Becker
District 13