Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness. This July, as we build on the momentum of recent weeks, and work to make real progress in dismantling 400 years of systemic racism, it is clear that these goals our nation first outlined in declaring independence remain aspirational, and out of reach for many Americans. Since people all across the country started taking to the streets following the deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor and too many other people of color, there have been changes in use-of-force policies, a growing emphasis on community-based law enforcement, the accelerated removal of racist flags and statues, and movement to eliminate racist roadblocks to equality and opportunity that have seeped into our lawbooks. As anger and grief have joined with power and purpose, there is now real resolve—and real hope that the stain that started in 1619, and which was preserved even in our great founding documents, may finally be removed from the fabric of our society.

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Last month, I pledged to listen to the Black community's outrage, pain, and frustration, and vowed to amplify the voices of those who are working to solve the deep-rooted issues of systemic racism. As part of that promise, I have invited Dr. Suzanne Afflalo to pen a piece for The Toni Times.

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The U.S. Supreme Court issued four victories recently when it upheld protections for LGBTQ workers, DACA recipients, immigrants to California, and women.

The first win came on June 15, when justices handed down a 6-to-3 decision that Title VII of the Civil Rights Act barring sex discrimination in the workplace also protects LGBTQ workers from being fired on the basis of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

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Pride is our safe space, where we celebrate who we are and who we love. The LGBTQ community has endured many challenges. This year's theme 'Together We Rise' is especially fitting as we enter a new chapter in the fight against racism, bigotry and violence. In light of the coronavirus pandemic, most of this year's events will be virtual but there are still plenty of fun, safe ways to participate in Pride!

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Time-honored American traditions that we look forward to each 4^th of July will be a bit different this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As you prepare to celebrate Independence Day, remember that the virus doesn't take holidays off and neither do the necessary health precautions. Practicing social distancing, wearing face coverings, sanitizing frequently touched surfaces often, and limiting festivities to the people you live with will help curb the spread of coronavirus.

Visit San Diego County's Coronavirus website for the most up-to-date health guidelines. 

The California Department of Public Health is asking all Californians to use face coverings whenever they leave their homes. This statewide order requires face covering be worn inside (or in line to enter) any public space, in any healthcare setting, on public transportation, at work, and while using public outside spaces unless there is 6 feet of distance between all persons. These precautions, along with staying home whenever possible and washing hands often, will help slow the spread of COVID-19 and keep California on the path to reopening and economic recovery.

If you have participated in recent protests or helped at community clean-ups, and you weren't able to keep six feet of physical distance between yourself and others, it is recommended that you get tested for COVID-19. Even if you are not sick, you could still carry and spread the virus to others.

COVID-19 testing is free to everyone in California and available at several locations in the San Diego area. You can find nearby testing sites here and you can book an appointment here.

If you are experiencing severe symptoms, such as trouble breathing or persistent pain or pressure in your chest, call 9-1-1 immediately.

With so much going on in the world, people have been looking for ways to fight for change, be heard, and come together. One positive way you can directly affect change in your community is by filling out the Census. Data collected from the Census directs how much funding goes to local hospitals, schools, senior services, and much more – for the next 10 years. When a community is undercounted, their needs are underserved.

You can fill out the Census online at my2020census.gov or by calling 844-330-2020. Take a moment and help your community from the comfort of your home.

Jewish Family Service San Diego has been providing thousands of meals to vulnerable San Diegans dealing with the impacts of COVID-19. When they asked for volunteers to help at their Hand Up Food Pantry, my district team was more than happy to raise their hands.

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