Guest Commentary

Commentary

California will need more than just policy to prepare for an aging workforce

Without adequate workforce opportunities for older adults, their quality of life and California's economy could take a staggering hit. The challenge can’t be solved with policy alone.

By Tylor Taylor and Jennifer Taylor-Mendoza • September 24, 2024

Commentary

Unjust closure of Antioch Amtrak station deserves a closer look from California’s attorney general

The unprecedented decision by the San Joaquin Joint Powers Authority to shut down the Antioch-Pittsburg Amtrak station deserves immediate legal scrutiny from the attorney general, a Bay Area transit advocate argues.

By Carter Lavin • September 20, 2024

Commentary

California can right a historic wrong by recognizing tribal authority for cultural burns

A bill on the governor's desk would acknowledge tribal sovereignty over cultural burning for the first time in California history. As state embraces prescribed burns to help reduce wildfire risk, Native American tribes still face legal barriers to performing a cherished cultural practice.

By Russell Attebery • September 18, 2024

Commentary

California needs Prop. 36 to help bring accountability to the fentanyl crisis

California voters will soon decide whether to reclassify certain theft and drug penalties under Proposition 36. A formerly homeless man who misused drugs and was arrested for theft believes the ballot initiative will rightly restore accountability and compassion.

By Tom Wolf • September 17, 2024

Commentary

There are prison rehabilitation success stories across California. Prop. 36 puts future ones at risk

This fall, California voters will decide whether to reclassify certain theft and drug penalties under Proposition 36. If more people end up in prisons under the stricter laws, some worry it could eliminate funding for key rehabilitation programs and increase recidivism.

By Felix Valdez • September 17, 2024

Commentary

For Californians with immigrant parents, voting becomes a sacred privilege

Barriers to voting disproportionately impact marginalized members of California's communities. Voting is a privilege, and one that people with access should exercise.

By Namrata Venkatesan • September 11, 2024

Commentary

As a new citizen, I’m voting in California to honor the community that shaped me

As a DACA recipient in San Diego completed her citizenship ceremony, she thought of "the community that poured into the cup of this once-undocumented Mexican girl with big dreams."

By Itzel Maganda Chavez • September 11, 2024

Commentary

After years in California prison, voting is a personal triumph over my silent past 

For a formerly incarcerated person, the opportunity to vote for the first time is filled with mixed emotions. After years of disenfranchisement, voting is an act of empowerment.

By Richard Richardson • September 11, 2024

Commentary

California’s young voters must participate if we want a livable climate future

Even if young voters are disillusioned with the American democratic process, they need to participate in our elections and support climate change protections and advocates, writes a Eureka teen.

By Bella Tarlton • September 11, 2024

Commentary

Many Asian Americans don’t vote. I will so our California communities can be heard

Advocacy groups fight for causes that matter to their communities, demonstrating what is possible when people come together, writes a teen first-time voter.

By Sunshine Thao • September 11, 2024