The DeSaulnier Digest: Continuing the Work of Dr. King

Yesterday, Contra Costa and communities across the country celebrated Martin Luther King Jr. Day. I was proud to join the Pittsburg community in remembering his remarkable life and service, and speak about the work ahead to ensure his dream is one day realized. In service of Dr. King's legacy, Democrats in Congress are continuing our efforts to advance voting rights legislation that would protect the sacred right of every American to make his or her voice heard at the ballot box. Furthering the work of Dr. King and my dear friend and former colleague, John Lewis, is the best way we can honor both of these men and all those who dedicated their lives to the cause of full racial and social equity and justice

Sincerely,

Mark DeSaulnier
Member of Congress

IN THE COMMUNITY

Our office also had the honor of attending the El Cerrito Caravan Parade on MLK Day. We are always proud to celebrate the legacy of Dr. King and continue his work toward racial equity and justice.

Congressman DeSaulnier Meets with First Five Contra Costa
Congressman DeSaulnier got the opportunity to discuss with First Five Contra Costa the importance of investing in early childhood development and the work they are doing to support children and caregivers in Contra Costa. Organizations like this show us the real world impacts of investments in our nation's children and families.

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE

Congressman DeSaulnier on the Future of Voting Rights Reform
The right to vote is more than fundamental, it's sacred. States and localities across the country have been attacking that right for years, and to combat that wave, Democrats in the House have been relentless in their pursuit of voting rights reform. Most recently, Congressman DeSaulnier proudly cast his vote for the Freedom to Vote: John Lewis Act (H.R. 5746), a bill that would protect the right of every American to make their voice heard. While the Congressman is disappointed that partisan divides in the Senate have been a roadblock to this bill becoming law, he is more determined than ever to make these reforms a reality. For more on his thoughts on voting rights, tune in to the video below by clicking here or on the following image.

House Passes Bill to Ensure GI Bill Education Benefits for National Guard and Reserve Service Members
Over the last several decades, the GI Bill has guaranteed low- or no-cost higher education to millions of veterans. Congressman DeSaulnier voted to pass the Guard and Reserve GI Bill Parity Act (H.R. 1836) to ensure that GI Bill eligibility is calculated in a way that accurately reflects the significant contributions of National Guard and Reserve members. The bill passed by a total of 287-to-135 with the Congressman's support.

IN THE NEWS

Contra Costa Pilots Emergency Services Program to Support Mental Health
Contra Costa is working to support behavioral health in our community through a new program called Anyone, Anywhere, Anytime (A3) that will offer services to those in mental health emergencies. To learn more about this program and the Congressman's and the County's shared work to end the stigma surrounding mental health and ensure every resident gets the support they need, click on the images below.

BY THE NUMBERS