Typically, behind a successful senator lies a committed team, devoted to serving as their vigilant eyes and attentive ears. Last week, I took my first steps into this unfamiliar world, the office of Senate Majority Leader, Lena Gonzalez. Each room was decorated with walls painted in different shades of blue, complemented with striking artwork that celebrated Long Beach’s culture and showcased the senator’s advocacy for labor rights and environmental protection. I was given a tour of the entire office and the district director introduced me to her tiny but mighty team. They provide for a wide range of issues in the community, such as health, environment, and employment. Despite their demanding workload, each team member approaches their tasks with a smile, united by a shared commitment to serving and supporting the community of Long Beach. While I didn’t have the opportunity to meet the senator this week, her team unquestionably embodies her core values.
The colorful mural at Senate Majority Leader Lena Gonzalez’s office
On my second day, I was invited to participate in a monthly “Caltran Cruising” task. Initially unsure of what it entailed, I discovered it was a valuable opportunity to directly engage with constituents’ concerns. Sitting beside my new team member, Mia, we cruised along the freeway with the windows down, braving the Southern California heat, and diligently scanning the roads and signs for any hazards. As I kept note of the mattresses on the side of the road and the overgrown weeds blocking signs, she provided insight into the issues that Long Beach currently faces. One involves the heavy use of fossil fuels on the freeway coming from cargo trucks that enter and leave the Port of Long Beach. The residents nearby face unfortunate and unfair detriments to their lifespan (10+ years) for being exposed to the emissions. This reminded me of how important policy is in solving these systemic issues that are out of control of the community’s hands.
This week, I also had a deeply moving experience joining a rally for Long Beach Saint Mary’s Hospital alongside Residents and Medical Interns, as we came together to advocate for a fair contract. Hearing the stories from residents about their challenges outside of their demanding hospital duties was both heart-wrenching and uplifting. Despite their tireless dedication to patients day and night, they find themselves unable to adequately support themselves and their families due to wages that fall below even the minimum. I found inspiration in their unity as they came together to share stories, cheer each other on, and educate others about the injustices fostered by the administration's greed.
Intern Malia Ferrer present for a rally at Long Beach Saint Mary’s Hospital
These insights and experiences were a powerful reminder of my purpose at CAUSE and reinforced the significance of advocating for communities at all levels. Whether it involves shaping large-scale policies or demonstrating solidarity alongside community members, every form of support, regardless of scale, is crucial for fostering change. Marginalized communities face numerous health challenges rooted in systemic barriers beyond their control. As someone deeply passionate about health equity, I am eager to find ways to uplift these voices and be an advocate for change. I know that the skills and lessons I will continue to learn this summer will prepare me to fulfill these goals in the future!
Residents and Medical Interns march for a fair contract
The views and opinions expressed in this publication are those of the author and do not reflect the views or positions of CAUSE or the CAUSE network.
Written by Malia Ferrer, Leadership Academy 2024 Intern.
The CAUSE Leadership Academy (CLA) for students is a nine-week, paid, internship program that prepares college undergraduates to lead and advocate for the Asian Pacific Islander community on their campuses and beyond.