Public Policy News By Kathy Papst

Carole Cline and I presented the first Public Policy program of the year on Saturday, Oct. 18, on the topic of Gerrymandering, Redistricting and Proposition 50. When the date was set, we didn’t know that it would be on the same day as the No Kings marches. It was too late to change anything, so we had no idea how many people to expect to attend the program.  We were so pleased that several members chose to do both and came to our presentation after attending a No Kings rally. I have read that there were a great number of rallies in the Sacramento area, including one at Eskaton.

Carole Cline and I were partners in presenting a program about how gerrymandering is used for partisan reasons and the who’s and why’s of California Proposition 50. I hope that the attendees enjoyed the program and felt that they received some useful information. I can’t thank Carole Cline enough for all of her hard work and dedication. She is an amazing teacher.

Our branch will not have a program in November, but there is still a lot that members can do to keep informed with Public Policy with both California AAUW and National. First, for CA Public Policy News, click <here>. This issue contains two articles of note — “Investing in Our Democratic Future: Non-Partisan Voter Education Around Prop 50” and “School Boards –The Overlooked Frontline of Democracy”.

Second, I will provide a new Public Policy posterboard at the December holiday luncheon.  It will include a lot of useful information about ways to keep informed on Public Policy and how to take action with state and national news. I have also purchased some books on relevant topics that members will be able to borrow. I will not be attending the December luncheon, but my understudy, Mahnaz Khazari will bring it in my absence.

The next program for Public Policy will be on March 21, 2026 at the Dharma Center, and the topic will be Federal Funding for School Vouchers and how it impacts funding for public schools.

I want to wish everyone a very Happy Thanksgiving.