November Newsletter 2026
Dear Neighbor,
As we enter November, I want to express my appreciation for the residents of Senate District 39 and the communities I am proud to represent. Our district is home to vibrant neighborhoods, diverse cultures, and individuals who work every day to make San Diego County a better place to live. It is your dedication and involvement that make our communities stronger.
Staying connected to the people I serve remains one of my highest priorities. Hearing your concerns, understanding the challenges facing our neighborhoods, and seeing the positive work taking place throughout our district help guide my efforts in Sacramento. From improving access to healthcare and supporting our schools to creating greater opportunities for families, I remain committed to the issues that matter most to you.
As we approach the holiday season, I encourage you to stay engaged and continue sharing your thoughts and concerns. My San Diego and Sacramento offices remain available to assist with state-related matters and connect you with resources. Thank you for the opportunity to serve you and our community.
LEGISLATIVE UPDATE
Carlos Castillo/KPBS
Last month, I convened the Senate Select Committee on Social Determinants of Health in San Diego to examine the challenges families face in accessing nutritious food. We heard from healthcare professionals, community advocates, and policy experts about food insecurity, barriers to accessing CalFresh benefits, and the importance of school nutrition programs.
As a physician, I understand that access to healthy food plays a critical role in our overall health and well-being. The discussions reinforced the need to address the barriers preventing families from accessing the resources they need. I look forward to building on these conversations and exploring policy solutions that improve food access and health outcomes for families throughout California.
DISTRICT UPDATE
Community Recognitions Program
I am proud to uplift the constituents and businesses in my district through our special Community Recognitions Program. I invite you to engage with our office and nominate outstanding residents and businesses to be recognized for their contributions.
We are recognizing an outstanding veteran for our Veteran of the Year honor for Senate District 39. The nomination Deadline is November 30, 2026.
You can view all of the categories and submit your nominations by clicking here: Community Recognition 2026 | Senator Akilah Weber Pierson, M.D.
AROUND THE DISTRICT
I hosted a community town hall to discuss concerns surrounding TCE contamination at Market Creek Plaza. The meeting provided residents with an opportunity to hear directly from officials, ask questions, and share their concerns about the potential impacts on their neighborhood. I remain committed to ensuring residents have access to accurate information, transparency, and accountability as we continue working to address this important community issue.
I had a wonderful time visiting and touring Promises2Kids to learn more about the incredible work they do to support foster youth throughout San Diego County! From mentorship to educational opportunities, their programs are helping young people build brighter futures. Thank you to the entire team for their dedication to empowering our youth!
It was great connecting with SEIU-United Healthcare Workers West (SEIU-UHW) Vice President Debru Carthan and her member to discuss their legislative priorities and the issues impacting California's healthcare workforce. I appreciated the engaging conversation and the opportunity to hear their perspectives on strengthening our healthcare system and supporting those who care for our communities!
A big thank you to the team at San Diego Endoscopy Center for the warm welcome! I enjoyed meeting with staff and touring the facility to get a firsthand look at the important work they do to provide quality care to patients. It was a great opportunity to connect with the healthcare professionals who help keep our communities healthy!
What an inspiring visit to the East County Transitional Living Center! I had the opportunity to tour the facility and learn more about the programs helping individuals and families overcome homelessness and rebuild their lives. From housing assistance to job training and recovery support, their work is making a meaningful difference in our community. Thank you to the entire team for the warm welcome and the incredible work you do!
An exciting milestone for healthcare access in our community! My team joined San Ysidro Health for the ribbon-cutting ceremony of its Southeastern Urgent Care facility and presented a Senate Resolution recognizing this special occasion. Congratulations to San Ysidro Health on expanding access to quality healthcare and continuing to serve the needs of our community!
A $2 million investment in our community! I was excited to present the San Diego County Black Chamber of Commerce with a $2 million check representing funding I secured for Senate District 39. It was a wonderful evening celebrating the Chamber’s work and hearing from keynote speaker and San Diego Padres owner Kwanza Jones. This investment will help support local businesses, expand economic opportunities and strengthen our community!
I had the pleasure of attending the Hillcrest Business Association Mixer. Thank you to these community leaders, residents, and business owners for continuing to uplift the community and a big thank you to R Place Bar & Eatery owners Chavva & Jason for hosting.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Annual Fall Legislative Update, Health Fair & Turkey Giveaway
As we approach the holiday season, I am excited to invite you and your family to my Annual Fall Legislative Update, Health Fair & Turkey Giveaway! Join us for an opportunity to learn about our legislative accomplishments, connect with community health resources, and receive a turkey to help prepare for the Thanksgiving holiday.
Date: Saturday, November 21, 2026
Time: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Location: Monte Vista High School, 3230 Sweetwater Springs Boulevard, Spring Valley, CA 91977
Turkeys will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last, with a limit of one turkey per household. A household member must be present to receive a turkey.
To attend, please RSVP and submit the required waiver form at sd39.senate.ca.gov/turkey-giveaway-2026.
SIGHTS OF SENATE DISTRICT 39
To showcase the character and vibrancy of Senate District 39, each newsletter will spotlight a neighborhood, city, or place that helps make SD39 such a great community to call home.
Lemon Grove is one of the special communities that makes Senate District 39 such a unique and vibrant place. With its close-knit neighborhoods, local pride, and strong sense of community, it truly reflects the best of what our region has to offer.
From local businesses to family-friendly spaces, Lemon Grove continues to grow while holding onto its small-town charm. I am so grateful for the people and spirit that make this community so special.
HEALTH SPOTLIGHT
Closing Message
Every month brings new opportunities to connect with our neighbors, strengthen our communities, and build upon the progress we have made together. Throughout Senate District 39, I continue to be inspired by the dedication, resilience, and compassion of those who work each day to make a positive difference in the lives of others.
As the great author and civil rights activist James Baldwin once said, “Nothing can be changed until it is faced.” His words remind us that meaningful progress requires honest conversations, a willingness to listen, and the determination to take action. By approaching challenges with courage and a shared commitment to finding solutions, we can create lasting change.
As your State Senator, I remain committed to working alongside you to build healthier, stronger, and more vibrant communities. Your voices, experiences, and ideas are essential to that work, and I encourage you to continue sharing your thoughts and staying engaged.
As we approach Thanksgiving, I am especially grateful for the opportunity to represent you and for the many individuals who contribute to making our district a wonderful place to call home.
If you have any questions, concerns, or comments, my office is always here to help. You can contact us at 619-688-6700 or visit our District Office at 7575 Metropolitan Dr., Suite #100, San Diego, CA 92108.