How to Honor SCOTUS Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg This Election

CFA mourns the loss of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg with heavy hearts. She was an American hero who is an inspiration to everyone fighting for justice and equality.

Very importantly, she didn’t give up despite facing a wide array of challenges and entrenched opposition. We ask that, despite her passing and the dark times we are currently facing, you not give up either.

Now more than ever, CFA needs your help on the critical upcoming election. The clock is ticking. There are 42 days left and a majority of Americans have committed to voting early.

This election is deeply personal to CFA. Our union has the opportunity to vote for Proposition 16 and overturn the ban on affirmative action so we can level the playing field for woman and people of color. As a national leader on racial and social justice issues, CFA was a co-sponsor of the legislation that put Proposition 16 on the ballot.

Also critical this year is the state budget situation. Proposition 15 will raise desperately needed funding by making corporations pay their fair share of property taxes. Our state needs this revenue – public higher education and the CSU are at risk of massive reductions in funding if Proposition 15 is not approved. Next year, CFA again will be entering into contract negotiations while the state faces severe budget cuts: we need to do what we can to minimize those cuts.

“We know how hard everyone is working to balance their lives so we have come up with a number of ways to be an active participant in the fray. Even a couple hours of your time can really make a difference,” said Steven Filling, CFA Political Action/Legislation Chair. “In addition to volunteering to support Propositions 15 and 16, you can help elect strong allies in our state legislature and volunteer to help turn out the national vote in swing states.”

There are different ways to get involved:

• Propositions: From Proposition 15 that will raise desperately needed funding for our schools by making corporations pay their fair share, to Proposition 16 that will address systemic racism at our universities, we have so much at stake.
• Statewide Candidates: CFA has the opportunity to elect strong allies in the state legislature who will fight for us during these difficult budget and policy negotiations.
• Opportunities to Volunteer in Federal Elections: We cannot remain idle, every vote counts. The future of our country depends on our democratic strength in this election.
• Local Elections: Let us know if you are already working on a local election so we can work together.

Vote-by-mail ballots will be delivered to mailboxes in two weeks.  Volunteer to talk with other union members about supporting candidates and initiatives to build a California and nation that works for all of us. We must refocus on a future that includes good jobs, racial equality, affordable healthcare, immigrant rights, and living wages for all.