Filipina on the Rise

1st Filipina to be elected to U.S. Assembly? Meet Jessica Caloza, immigrant, public servant and candidate

Krystl Fabella

Jessica Caloza, is back on the podcast (my 2nd ever guest!) and ... she's running for office! Jessica is a dedicated public servant and worked for President Obama helping underfunded public schools get more resources. As L.A. Public Works Commissioner, Jessica expanded good-paying union jobs, raised wages for workers and required equal pay for women while increasing transparency and accountability. As California Attorney General Rob Bonta’s Deputy Chief of Staff, Jessica has worked to reduce crime and gun violence, take bold action to protect the environment, and helped victims of sexual assault receive justice.

Episode Highlights

  • Introduction to our guest An empowering Filipino American trailblazer with high aspirations for District 52's State Assembly seat.
  • Representation matters The significance of diverse representation in government and the power of endorsements.
  • Making history with the Filipino Town Gateway The role our guest played in establishing a historic monument and what it signifies for Asian American women in public service.
  • Overcoming obstacles: An insight into the challenges faced by Asian American women in politics and the drive to pave the way for future generations.
  • Addressing pressing issues: Strategies to tackle California's affordability crisis, housing issues, homelessness, and budget shortfalls.
  • Public Service Experience: How experiences at different levels of government can contribute to community development.
  • Election Participation: The importance of active community involvement and having a voice in politics.
  • Honoring Filipino Contributions: Recognizing the sacrifices of Filipino nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic and advocating for workplace protection.
  • Voter Engagement: The necessity for active Filipino voter participation and innovative campaign strategies to engage them.
  • Community Outreach: The role of personal networks in furthering the campaign and the need for support.
  • Remember to Vote: The importance of voting early and ensuring participation.

Sign up to help her campaign! Let's get Jessica elected.
https://www.jessicacaloza.com/