Public Policy Advocacy
About Our Advocacy
Our advocacy program drives equitable public policies to expand access and the landscape of economic opportunities for the African American community. From supplier diversity to workforce development to the cost of education, we engage legislation that will impact our current members and the pipeline of future African American business owners. Through sponsoring legislation, providing testimony to legislative committees, and submitting public comments on regulatory matters of interest, we ensure the voices of California’s African American businesses are heard throughout the halls of power.
Advocacy Team
CAACC’s advocacy efforts are led by our Board-appointed Policy Committee and our contracted lobbying firm, California Policy Solutions–an African-American and family-owned lobbying firm with deep roots in Sacramento and Government.
Mayor Deborah Robertson of Rialto, California, leads CAACC’s Policy Committee. Mayor Robertson’s innovative and distinctive leadership style has thrust the City of Rialto into the national spotlight as a recognized leader in public-private partnerships, business development, and job creation. Mayor Robertson was elected Mayor in November 2012 – the latest achievement in a distinguished public service career that has included 12 years on the Rialto City Council, leadership positions at the Southern California Association of Governments, the San Bernardino Associated Governments (SCAG), and more than 20 years with the California Department of Transportation.
Caliph Assagai, Esq., the Chief Strategist for California Policy Solutions, leads the execution of our policy program. Caliph is a graduate of UCLA School of Law and has an extensive 19-year history in public policy, including serving as one of the distinguished Senate Fellows in the State Capitol and the inaugural class of the Legislative Black Caucus Fellowship Program.
Mel Assagai, has successfully represented a wide range of public and private organizations, businesses, and individuals before the California State Legislature and government agencies for over twenty-three years. He leads California Policy Solutions government affairs and communications practice where he leverages his unique ability to create and manage strategies that address constantly changing public policies and opinions to aid clients in business, industry, and government.
For all advocacy and legislative inquiries, contact Caliph at Caliph@californiapolicysolutions.com.
CAACC Bill Positions
Each year, we take positions on legislation that creates equitable public policies to expand access and the landscape of economic opportunities for the African American community. The list below includes legislation we support or oppose for the current legislative session.
