California Assemblymember Liz Ortega visited Mt. Eden High School on September 19, 2024, sharing her journey and visions for the future of California. Ortega represents district 20 which includes Hayward and surrounding areas. She is responsible for giving voice to the people on political issues, laws and outcomes for California at the state capitol in Sacramento.
Having moved to the U.S. at just three years old, Ortega became her family’s personal translator, a role she initially loathed. Today, she views that experience as a vital opportunity to connect with and advocate for her community of over half a million people.
During her talk, Ortega emphasized her commitment to education, outlining plans to expand and remodel schools. She also ensures high school students understand their rights when entering the workforce by co-authoring a law that requires students who apply for work permits have their labor rights communicated to them.
“I want to make sure no worker gets taken advantage of,” said Ortega. “My job is to go in there and fight for you everyday.”
“I loved that she was big on education, but she could have been more detailed in regards to the current economic state of the Bay Area, as well as the current drug crisis, “ said Mt. Eden senior Amy Espinoza Garza. “I wish she talked more about policies she wants and not policies that she already has.”
Ortega’s motivations are rooted in her desire to engage with the community and fight for their rights. She’s tackling pressing issues such as homelessness by supporting the purchase of hotels by the city and state to provide not just shelter, but also vital resources like healthcare and job assistance. An example of this is buying the Nimitz Hotel in San Leandro for safe housing.
Additionally, her initiatives towards helping the lower class include establishing policies that will stabilize the current wealth gap and get higher classes to pay for lower classes.
“I want to make sure the people at the bottom are the ones that get the attention and resources,” said Ortega.
With plans to serve another decade in office if reelected, Ortega is dedicated to bridging the wealth gap and supporting those in need. Her message resonated with many of the students at Mt. Eden who listened to her story: every challenge is an opportunity to make a difference.
