Bo Tefu, California Black Media
Statewide — Last week, Gov. Gavin Newsom met with President Donald Trump and members of Congress, both Democrats and Republicans, to push for federal disaster relief for survivors of the Los Angeles County firestorms. The meeting focused on securing aid for recovery and rebuilding efforts after last month’s devastating wildfires in Southern California.
Newsom, joined by California Natural Resources Secretary Wade Crowfoot, emphasized the urgent need for federal assistance.
“We’re cutting red tape to speed up recovery and working across the aisle to ensure survivors get the support they need,” said Newsom highlighting their joint efforts to support communities impacted by the fires.
On Capitol Hill, Newsom met with California Representatives Doug LaMalfa (R-CA-1), Ken Calvert (R-CA-41), Judy Chu (D-CA-28), Brad Sherman (D-CA-32), and George Whitesides (D-CA-27), as well as Senators Martin Heinrich (D-NM) , Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Patty Murray (D-WA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), and Adam Schiff (DCA).
At the White House, Newsom and Trump discussed coordinated efforts between federal, state, and local agencies. Newsom thanked the Trump administration for its early response, including the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) deployment of over 1,000 personnel for debris removal.
Gov. Newsom’s Council on Holocaust and Genocide Says More Education Needed
On Holocaust Remembrance Day, Gov. Gavin Newsom’s Council on Holocaust and Genocide Education released a report assessing Holocaust and genocide education in California schools. The study found that while some school districts have strong programs, overall implementation is inconsistent, with success often depending on individual educators rather than a systematic approach.
Newsom, who established the council in 2021 amid rising antisemitism, reaffirmed his commitment to improving Holocaust education.
“Hate is unacceptable in California, and the decline in awareness about the Holocaust is alarming,” said Newsom.
The council, co-chaired by Attorney General Rob Bonta, State Senator Henry Stern (D-CA-27), State Superintendent Tony Thurmond, and Dr. Anita Friedman, identified a need for more state support, professional development, and curriculum improvements. Key recommendations include revising history-social science standards, increasing funding for Holocaust education, and expanding teacher training.
“Students must learn about genocide to prevent history from repeating itself,” said Stern.
Bonta emphasized that “teaching truth is crucial to combat hate,” while Thurmond stressed the role of education in fostering inclusion.
The report aligns with California’s broader efforts to combat hate and discrimination, including funding for Holocaust education initiatives at museums and institutions statewide.
The Newsom administration has secured millions of dollars to support Holocaust and genocide education initiatives, including partnerships with the Holocaust Museum LA, the JFCS Holocaust Center, and the Museum of Tolerance. The Council aims to continue these efforts, ensuring the lessons of the past are never forgotten.
