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Dear Friend,
As we celebrate Women’s History Month, it’s been inspiring to witness the talent, dedication, and energy of the women in my life and across our County. To my mentors and allies, our poets and artists, and our mothers and activists, you all keep our hopes and dreams alive with your tireless work and vibrant spirits.
I want to share my deep appreciation to the advocates, activists, and community members who have partnered with me and my office through the Alameda County Together for All (ACT for All) ad hoc committee to show our commitment to the County’s diverse immigrant and refugee communities. One third of all our residents are immigrants and half of our children grow up in a household with at least one immigrant parent. We must not live in fear and in the shadows as the federal administration threatens to separate our families. I’m proud that the Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a budget request of $3.5 million from myself and Supervisor Elisa Márquez to provide critical services for deportation defense, immigrant rights education, and community mutual aid and preparedness. Read more below and in The San Francisco Chronicle and The Mercury News. Also see our ACT for All resource page.
I also want to recognize and thank the many parents, childcare providers, and advocates for your unrelenting commitment to implementing Measure C for early childhood education. We’ve waited five years to successfully clear a legal challenge to the measure, and it’s highly disappointing that the Alameda County Taxpayers Association is delaying the implementation again with another legal threat. As the Board’s representative to the First 5 Commission, I’m committed to working collaboratively to develop Measure C’s five-year plan for the Board’s approval in June and to ensuring funds are disbursed without further delay to best serve our children, families and childcare providers. Read more below and in The Oaklandside.
 Photos by Brooke Anderson / @movementphotographer
On February 26th, I was overwhelmed by your support at my community swearing in celebration. We united around a clear call to action: More than ever, we must stand together and stay focused on our vision of a caring community and a County that provides a strong safety net for our most vulnerable residents. A huge thank you to everyone who joined and sponsored the event, and special appreciation to: Sen. Nancy Skinner for administering the oath of office; The Center for Independent Living for hosting our celebration; Michelle Mush Lee, emcee and poet extraordinaire; Anthony Guzman for the land acknowledgement; Rev. Deborah Lee and Laura Rivas for a moving invocation and blessing; Agos Rondalla of KULARTS for beautiful Filipino music; my husband Brad Erickson and many friends for their toasts; DJ Gold Gills for tunes; Mari Rose Taruc for gorgeous flowers; Thank Que Grill and Angel Cakes for delicious food; Brooke Anderson for photography; and Anish Mohanty for video. My heart is full with your care and support. Thanks again.
This newsletter also contains important information about wildfire prevention, Sutter Health’s new plan for a hospital in Emeryville, vacancies on boards & commissions, and announcements & events.
Warmly,
Nikki Fortunato Bas 勵琪 (she/her)
Supervisor
Alameda County, District 5
$3.5 million for Immigrant and Refugee Justice!
 We are thrilled that the Board of Supervisors voted unanimously to demonstrate our county’s commitment to our most vulnerable communities. Through the Alameda County Together for All (ACT for All) ad hoc committee, Supervisor Nikki Fortunato Bas and Supervisor Elisa Márquez proposed an important budget allocation to provide needed services and legal support to protect our immigrant and refugee communities.
At the March 11, 2025 Board of Supervisors meeting, the Board approved the final $2.2 million of a $3.5 million commitment to fund critical services to protect Alameda County immigrant and refugee communities. The funding will bolster county efforts in deportation defense, immigrant rights education, and community mutual aid and preparedness. This critical funding will enable our community organizations to continue their mission of protecting immigrant and refugee communities from unjust deportation, ensuring that their rights are upheld, and empowering them through education and advocacy.
This $2.2 million allocation consists of:
Two weeks prior, on February 25, 2025 the Board approved $1.3 million to increase capacity of the Public Defender’s Immigration Unit which provides crucial deportation defense and legal representation to immigrant clients facing removal from the U.S.
In addition, the Board approved an allocation of $50,000 from our District 5 office budget for Asian Pacific Islander Legal Outreach for Know Your Rights Trainings and pre-emptive legal services.
With rising threats to immigrant and refugee rights across the nation, this funding comes at a crucial time. The County funding will support expanding programs providing direct legal assistance to individuals facing deportation, offer educational resources about immigrant and refugee rights, and amplify grassroots organizing efforts to protect vulnerable communities.
Alameda County Public Defender Brendon Woods said, “Our Immigration Unit provides crucial services to non-citizen residents of Alameda County who face unique challenges. The Board’s $1.3 million allocation will make a significant difference in the lives of many by strengthening the services we offer this vulnerable community during this tumultuous time.”
“Alameda County, through its action demonstrates a commitment to protecting the well-being and livelihood of our immigrant communities,” said Alejo, Executive Director of Trabajadores Unidos Workers United. “Protecting critical rights and general welfare of each and every person who lives in this county is their top priority. During this time in which immigrant communities are being targeted, there is a need for communities and their families to have access to rapid response lines, immigration attorneys, know your rights, and mutual aid trainings.”
Lisa Knox, Co-Executive Director of the California Collaborative for Immigrant Justice said, "This is for the benefit of everyone in Alameda County - nobody is immune from the attacks coming from the federal government. All of our county residents deserve our support to access due process and this is an important step in that direction."
Monique Berlanga, CEO of Centro Legal de la Raza said, “We desperately need additional resources to make sure that we have the robust safety net that our county deserves. We appreciate the county’s support of the Alameda County Immigration Legal Education Partnership rapid response hotline.”
Read more at our ACT for All webpage, where you can find community resources, information on past and future committee meetings, and media coverage including The San Francisco Chronicle and The Mercury News.
March ACT for All Committee Meeting
At our March 6th Alameda County Together for All (ACT for All) Ad Hoc Committee Meeting, we had the privilege of hearing from several key advocates and experts in the field of data privacy and civil rights. Brian Hofer of Secure Justice, Saira Hussain of the Electronic Frontier Foundation, Lara Kiswani of the Arab Resource and Organizing Center (AROC), Rona Popal of the Afghan Coalition, and Musa Tariq of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) provided critical insights into the risks posed by privacy-invading data collection practices.
They discussed how these practices disproportionately affect vulnerable communities in Alameda County, especially in the context of the heightened scrutiny and targeting of immigrants, refugees, LGBTQ+ individuals and others under the current federal administration. The hearing focused on how surveillance and data gathering can be used as tools of marginalization, creating fear and distrust in communities that are already facing immense challenges.
As a County, it is not just our duty but our moral obligation to fully comprehend the consequences of our data collection, retention, and sharing policies. We must ensure that these practices do not inadvertently harm those who are most vulnerable. Immigrants, refugees, LGBTQ+ individuals, and those seeking reproductive or gender-affirming healthcare are facing increased risks in today’s political climate. These communities are particularly exposed to the dangers of data misuse, whether it is for surveillance, deportation, or discrimination. It is therefore essential that Alameda County takes immediate, proactive steps to safeguard the privacy, dignity, and fundamental rights of all its residents, especially those at risk of being targeted by both local and federal agencies.
In evaluating the data practices within the county, we must prioritize policies that are thoughtful, inclusive, and built upon principles of privacy, transparency, and accountability. By doing so, we will ensure that all members of our community—regardless of their background or legal status—are able to access essential services and resources without fear. This means creating systems that protect people’s personal information from exploitation and prevent any form of discrimination or harassment. In building these protections, we will strengthen the bonds of trust and support that are necessary for our communities to thrive.
Safeguarding privacy is not just about protecting data; it is about ensuring that all people in Alameda County can live their lives freely, with dignity and without fear of undue government intrusion.
Watch a recording of the meeting here.
Upcoming April ACT for All Committee Meeting
The next ACT for All Committee meeting is on Thursday, April 3rd at 3:00 p.m. with leaders in the education field. Dr. Ingrid Lainez Roberson, Chief Deputy Superintendent of Public Instruction at the California Department of Education, and Dr. Nicole Pierce Davis, Chief of Whole Child Programs at the Alameda County Office of Education, will be presenting to the committee.
Their presentations will focus on how leaders in California are standing with all young people to advance equity and education, particularly in response to the challenges posed by the current federal administration's policies. In their discussion, Dr. Roberson and Dr. Pierce-Davis will highlight the efforts to ensure that all students, particularly those from historically marginalized communities, have access to the resources and support they need to succeed. This includes navigating policies that might create tension with California's progressive stances on issues such as immigration, funding for public education, and civil rights in education.
Their presentations will shed light on:
- The resilience of California’s education system and its commitment to inclusive, equitable education for all students, regardless of background.
- Current work at the state and local levels to ensure that issues like mental health, social-emotional support, and school funding are prioritized, particularly during a time of national political turmoil.
- Collaborative efforts to advocate for policies that protect vulnerable student populations and promote a holistic, whole-child approach to education.
Please join our April Committee meeting. Find meeting resources and attend online here, or attend in person at the Board Chambers at 1221 Oak St., Room 512, Oakland, CA 94612.
Know Your Rights Virtual Workshop
 On March 5, 2025 our office and Supervisor Lena Tam’s hosted a Know Your Rights Virtual Workshop with over 400 registrants. Speakers covered important updates from federal, state, and county levels, sharing information about our efforts to protect vulnerable populations, as well as employer and employee rights and best practices for workplace safety, and ensuring attendees gained the tools to become more proactive and prepared.You can find a recording of the workshop here, the presentation slides here, and the post-meeting summary here.
Measure C Funds to Support Early Childhood Education
 I am pleased to represent the Board on the First 5 Commission, which is working to inform and administer funds from Measure C for early childhood education. Measure C is an innovative and critical step in building a more effective and equitable system for Early Childhood Education in Alameda County. It is designed to enhance the quality of services through a framework that emphasizes accountability, continuous evaluation, and transparency. Additionally, Measure C fosters equity by integrating community, caregivers, and parents into the decision-making process through the Community Advisory Council, ensuring that all voices, particularly those from historically underserved communities, are heard and valued. This participatory approach is essential to creating a system that works for every child, family, and community.
I want to thank the many parents, childcare providers, and advocates for your unrelenting commitment to implementing Measure C for early childhood education. We’ve waited five years to successfully clear a legal challenge to the measure, and the Board unanimously approved an Emergency Stabilization Fund to provide critical support to childcare providers. It’s highly disappointing that the Alameda County Taxpayers Association is delaying the implementation again with another legal threat. As the Board’s representative to the First 5 Commission, I’m committed to working collaboratively to develop Measure C’s five-year plan for the Board’s approval in June and to ensuring funds are disbursed without further delay to best serve our children, families and childcare providers. Read more in The Oaklandside. Please participate in our community listening sessions to share your input and help strengthen our early childcare system.
I was appointed to represent the Board on the East Bay Wildfire Coalition of Governments (EBWC) and attended my first meeting in February. Launched in April 2024, EBWC is a regional consortium of elected officials representing cities, counties, and fire districts committed to safeguarding our communities and natural landscapes in the East Bay Hills. We support proactive, science-based, ecologically sound and data-driven approaches to resiliency. Through preparedness, community engagement, education, and collaboration, we support mitigating the increasing threat of catastrophic wildfires due to the climate crisis.
The February meeting was very informative and included presentations from EBMUD on fire preparedness, the Berkeley Fire Department’s EMBER Program (Effective Measures for Berkeley Ember Resilience), and a draft Regional Vegetation Management Proposal. I requested a future presentation from PG&E and look forward to our important work together to safeguard our communities from wildfires. Please see the East Bay Wildfire Coalition of Governments (EBWC) web site for more information, including past and future meetings.
On February 19, 2025, Sutter Health announced that it would invest $1 billion for the construction of a new hospital and medical campus in Emeryville. Citing the prohibitive cost to seismically retrofit Alta Bates Hospital in Berkeley, Sutter opted to build a new campus at Horton and 53rd Streets in Emeryville. Sutter intends to continue providing urgent care services at Alta Bates that do not require a seismic upgrade. There is much to be discussed with this new plan in order to minimize adverse impacts in both Berkeley and Emeryville and the negotiation of a robust community benefits package. The Sutter press release can be found here.
Serving on a County Board or Commission is an important way for Alameda County residents to be civically engaged and impact our local decision making process. Our nearly 100 Boards, Commissions, and Committees span a wide range of topics and objectives. We welcome applications from District 5 residents representing diverse backgrounds and interests.
Our district has the following vacancies:
You can apply here.
Applications submitted by April 25th will receive priority, though we will continue to accept applications on a rolling basis beyond the priority deadline. You must be a resident of District 5, which includes the cities of Albany, Berkeley, Emeryville, Piedmont, and West Oakland, North Oakland, Rockridge, Grand Lake, and portions of the Fruitvale, Manzanita and Dimond District neighborhoods, to serve as an appointee for the district.
 This Monday, March 31st, we observe International Transgender Day of Visibility. Amid the federal administration's attacks on trans people, as well as the LGBTQ+ community more broadly, through discriminatory executive orders and legislation, and through misinformation and fear-mongering, we stand with our trans, nonbinary, and intersex siblings. As Angelica Christina, Board Director of the Stonewall Inn Gives Back Initiative, states in this interview, “this is a war on trans, nonbinary, and intersex folk,” and it is “so important … to have cisgender folks in positions of privilege to show up for us and rally for” the trans community. Through our Alameda County Together for All (ACT for All) Committee, we are coordinating a proactive response to protect, support, and lift up communities impacted by new federal policies, including the LGBTQ+ community. We must recognize the work that lies ahead of us to combat the discrimination, violence, and disproportionate poverty the trans community faces; at the same time, we must uplift trans visibility, honor the contributions of trans people to our lives and our society, and celebrate trans joy and resilience.
12th Annual Chief Is My Belief
 Thank you to Division Chief Randall West and teacher Tiffany Johnson for organizing the 12th annual celebration of “Chief is my Belief” with the Alameda County Fire Department and Oakland Firefighters Local 55 in Emeryville. This educational event has reached 1,600 students so far, sharing the legacy of African American firefighters and inspiring young people to reach for their dreams.
Congratulations to the many local heroes who were honored, including members of ACFD and Local 55, and former Supervisor Keith Carson, among others, and thanks to Oakland artist Shomari Smith for contributing beautiful artwork to this event and the honorees over the past four years.
Oakland Chinatown Lunar New Year Parade
 Oakland Chinatown was incredibly alive last month for the 3rd Annual Oakland Chinatown Lunar New Year Parade! Thank you to the Oakland Chinatown Improvement Council and sponsors for organizing another successful event that brought together our community and displayed the potential of our town with a spectacular parade, amazing performances, delicious food, and much more. It was great to see so many friends, neighbors, and colleagues, including the Asian Pacific Environmental Network.
Faith in Action East Bay Interfaith Immigration Vigil
 I was honored to stand alongside Christian, Muslim, and Jewish faith leaders in support of our immigrant communities at Faith in Action East Bay’s Interfaith Immigration Vigil at St. Anthony’s Church in Oakland. We came together to celebrate and uplift our diverse voices in solidarity and support of our immigrant communities that may be facing increased threats of ICE raids and deportation.
Restorative Pathways: Over 50 Years of Service to Survivors of Domestic Violence and Human Trafficking
 Congratulations to Restorative Pathways (formerly Ruby’s Place) for their incredible milestone of over five decades dedicated to supporting survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking. Thank you for your lasting impact on countless lives, offering safety, resources, and empowerment to those in need.
Our office had the honor of celebrating their many successes at their Gala on March 8th. It was a perfect way to celebrate International Women's Day. What an inspiring evening, filled with the presence of brilliant women leaders and other advocates whose dedication makes this vital work possible.
Congratulations to everyone at Restorative Pathways for their unwavering commitment and the positive change they continue to bring to the lives of so many. Your tireless work is truly appreciated, and we look forward to seeing the continued impact you will have in the years to come.
Race & Policy Symposium at UC Berkeley’s Goldman School
 It was an honor to give the closing keynote at the 15th annual Race & Policy Symposium, organized by Students of Color in Public Policy at the UC Berkeley Goldman School of Public Policy. This year’s theme was Bridging the Divide: Policies that Liberate, Not Separate. After a day of panels, workshops, and discussions, I shared my journey from organizer to elected official and my commitment to collaborative governance — building deep partnerships with community organizations to win concrete change together. I also shared my challenges as a woman of color and encouraged our future policy makers to seek mentors and build community, to collaborate and be courageous, and to stand on the side of justice.
Oakland Chamber of Commerce Economic Development Summit
 I joined the region’s civic and business leaders for a morning full of information and insights at the 2025 Economic Development Summit hosted by the Oakland Metro Chamber of Commerce at the Oakland Museum of California. Highlights included a lively discussion about leveraging the city’s creative economy and an important reminder of the transformative role of the Port of Oakland to bolster economic and workforce development. Check out the annual Oakland/East Bay Economic Indicators report here.
16th Annual Powerful Women of the Bay Awards Luncheon
 Congratulations to Supervisor Lena Tam and the other powerful women who were honored at the 2025 Powerful Women of the Bay Awards. This event recognizes women who are not only passionate about their own growth and success but are equally dedicated to educating, empowering, and connecting with women within the broader community. These remarkable individuals are visionaries, leaders, and changemakers who are paving the way for future generations. Their past honorees have included a diverse group of exceptional women—entrepreneurs who’ve built thriving businesses from the ground up, corporate executives who’ve shattered glass ceilings, and community and civic leaders who’ve made immense sacrifices to uplift their neighborhoods and drive positive change. Their commitment to service, excellence, and innovation has had a profound impact, making them true role models for others to follow. Read more about this year’s honorees here.
Worker Solidarity: Alameda Court Clerks and UC Workers
 In February, I joined two picket lines in solidarity with workers in Alameda County.
I joined SEIU 1021 Alameda County Superior Court workers on the picket line in front of the Courthouse during their unfair labor practice strike and fight for fair conditions, fair wages, and a fair contract. Court workers are understaffed and being pressed to perform tasks they aren’t trained to do. More than ever, under this federal administration, justice and due process are important to make sure that we administer justice fairly in Alameda County. We must ensure our Court workers are able to receive the training they need to perform their jobs effectively.
I also joined UPTE-CWA 9119 as thousands of workers struck across the UC system. “Staffing issues at UC have led to negative patient outcomes, threatened the state’s bird flu response, delayed care for at-risk patients, and impacted research on diseases like cancer,” said the union. They have not yet reached an agreement with UC and announced another strike on April 1st.
Immigrant Rights Ambassador Training, April 6 & 27
 East Bay Sanctuary Covenant and Friends of La Peña Immigration Rights Committee will be hosting two Immigrant Rights Ambassador trainings at La Peña Cultural Center - on April 6 and April 27 - sharing Know Your Rights information and preparing attendees to share this information with their communities. Become an Immigrant Rights Ambassador and sign up here!
Secure Justice Privacy Self-Defense and Immigration Workshop, April 12
 Join Secure Justice and friends on April 12th for a Privacy Self-Defense and Immigration Workshop in Oakland.
During this day of workshops, you will be able to join sessions where you can learn:
- How to maximize privacy protections for your smartphone, laptop, online presence, and data from your vehicle
- How to setup an emergency preparedness plan for immigration-related issues and how recent changes to immigration law may affect you
- How to be in touch with or support local mutual aid and rapid response organizations
- How to receive legal assistance with gender name change documentation
Secure Justice is proud to partner with experts from the Electronic Frontier Foundation, Centro Legal de la Raza, Council on American Islamic Relations - SF Bay Area, Identify Affirmation Workshop, the Law Office of Spojmie Nasiri, and the Alameda County Public Defenders Unit to bring you these practical tools and trainings.
This important event will provide participants with practical resources and strategies to protect digital privacy rights, particularly for immigrants, Muslims, individuals seeking reproductive care, and the LGBTQ+ community.
Lunch, childcare, and translators will be provided.
Hands Off! Oakland Fights Back
 On Saturday, April 5th at 1 PM at Oscar Grant Plaza, Indivisible East Bay is taking to the streets, alongside hundreds of parallel rallies across the country, to fight back against Trump and Musk’s abuses of power.
This mass mobilization day is our message to the world that we do not consent to the destruction of our government and our economy for the benefit of Trump and his billionaire allies. Alongside Americans across the country, we are marching, rallying, and protesting to demand a stop the chaos and build an opposition movement against the looting of our country.
Alameda County Youth Poet Laureate Competition
 Do you know a teen poet? Alameda County is looking for its next Youth Poet Laureate to serve as an ambassador to inspire civic engagement, social justice, cultural awareness, and literary excellence in our communities. Teens 13-18 who live in Alameda County are eligible to apply for this opportunity to speak their truth, make friends, and have fun! Prizes include a MacBook, poems featured in a national anthology, and the chance to be the next California Youth Poet Laureate. Applications open April 1. Share this with a teen in your life! More here: aclibrary.org/youth-poet/.
Building Bridges: Mental Health Recovery Across Communities Conference, April 24
 On Thursday, April 24, Alameda County Health’s Behavioral Health Department will be hosting an impactful, all-day conference focused on behavioral health, substance use disorders, and culturally responsive care. This event will bring together professionals, students, advocates, and community leaders to engage in meaningful discussions, workshops, and networking opportunities. Register here!
Support Local Farms in Alameda County by March 31
 A federal funding freeze has put six vital agricultural conservation projects on hold across Alameda County—impacting farms and community spaces in West Oakland, Hayward/Ashland, the Oakland Hills (Sequoya/Eastmont Hills), San Leandro, and includes local child development centers and a temporary residence for the unhoused. These projects must be completed this spring, but without immediate financial support, they will not happen. Each grant award is $2,500 and our goal is to raise $15,000 to fully fund all six projects.
Every single dollar goes directly to these farmers! These small farms and gardens operate on small budgets with volunteer support. Your donation of any amount will make a lasting impact!
Your support will fund:
- Irrigation & Water Conservation – Installing self-watering ollas, rainwater catchment systems, and mulch to reduce water consumption and stormwater runoff.
- Soil Health & Composting – Improvements to existing compost systems and installation of new ones, plus planting of cover crops to build soil health.
- Pollinator & Native Plantings – Drought-tolerant landscaping for biodiversity and building an outdoor propagation station.
- Community Education & Engagement – Outreach materials, signage, and community involvement will help share best practices for small farms and gardens.
These farms are deeply connected to the community—partnering with local restaurants for composting and sharing fresh produce with underserved neighbors. They applied for funding last fall, were selected, and then faced a funding freeze. We are committed to seeing this through with your financial help!
Donate today to help get these critical projects back on track! Please make your donation by Monday, March 31st to ensure projects can be implemented this Spring. Please share with other farm and garden supporters like you!
Alameda County CASA
 “I decided to become a CASA [aka volunteer] because I clearly remember how lonely and frightening it was to be in foster care…When you become a CASA, you can tell a kid that you are going to always be by their side.” CASA Volunteer
There are currently 1,100 youth aged under 21 in the Alameda County child welfare system. Alameda County CASA (ACCASA) pairs volunteers 1:1 with youth in foster care. After comprehensive, free training to become skilled advocates for children, often a CASA is the only stable and reliable adult in a child’s life. At this time, ACCASA can only support 25% of those eligible.
CASA was the idea of a juvenile dependency court judge who realized he was responsible for making life-altering decisions for children in his courtroom about whom he knew very little. The lawyers and social workers were working hard, but with very large caseloads. The judge considered: what if there was an individual, a volunteer, appointed by the court, who was familiar with the key components of a child’s life? Where they live, do they see their parent(s), how they’re doing in school, what the CHILD wants, what they need (physically, emotionally, educationally).
ACCASA wants to increase the percentage of children with an advocate, with a commitment to diversifying its volunteer base to better reflect the communities served. CASAs advocate, report, research resources, mentor, and often have a lot of fun in the process of building a strong bond with their assigned youth. Please consider finding some time in your heart and schedule for a young person in foster care. Learn more about volunteering at CASA
“Imagine a young kid that will not dream, will not talk about the future. And one day they start to dream because they see that they can.” CASA Volunteer
Find Alameda County resources here: ACGOV - Services | Alameda County.
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