Positive Progressive Change for Richmond

By Jovanka D. Beckles

In November of 2008, we had a historic national election in which our city and the nation dared to aspire to a new and better world. Here in our dear Richmond we made significant gains toward a better government, bringing more fairness and balance to our societal responsibilities.

We have made strides in reducing violence through community policing. Big Oil is finally paying more of its fair share of taxes, and we have begun attracting green jobs--the only growing sector of the economy--to Richmond. We have to nurture and expand these programs. We also have to avoid short-term programs that will set us back. We must encourage development of Point Molate but oppose the Casino which will increase crime and social problems in Richmond.

We have, in Richmond's history, very proud moments of great achievements that have benefited all of our residents. When we were able to come together from many perspectives and backgrounds and support our common interests and aspirations we have excelled. We can learn a lot from that history. See and download "Our History Built Richmond" and "One Richmond."

We continue to change the image of Richmond to reflect what we know to be true- that Richmond is a city of many distinct communities that reflect the diversity of culture, interests, talents and possibilities. We can be proud of Richmond's past history event as we continue to make history.

We find ourselves today faced with the great opportunity of re-defining the city where we live. Practicing forward thinking, we have put Richmond on the map as a city willing to make a way for a green economy that supports rather than harms the environment. In the coming years we can build a city-home with enough new jobs for all, by capitalizing on the booming Green jobs sector. We must create community where violence and crime is up-rooted, through a committed and unified effort by community members to Get Involved!. We deserve clean air to breath, great after school programs and libraries to learn, with parks and gardens and community places to enjoy and share. We must implement policies that dramatically and positively improve the quality of life for Richmond residents.

I feel even more strongly that it is particularly true for young people. I have had many sad opportunities to witness the despair of our youth. The worse was when I was the victim of a home invasion at gunpoint. As terrifying as that was for me, it was clear to me that those young, desperate men were equally terrified. They were not frightened of me: they were afraid of not having any obvious reason to hope for a good future with equal opportunities. We must address the root causes of this despair. We must show our children they are valued by providing all with a quality education, as well as positive actions and role models. The young men and women with whom I work every day want a future that is prosperous and safe. They are the ones who remind me that positive progressive change is desperately needed and that, fortunately, it is in the air.

I bring many talents to the Council. These include: my experience in dealing with the root causes of violence and crime, my integrity, my Masters degree in Business Administration, a no-nonsense business approach, my solid community values, a fresh vision and energy, along with my dedication to Richmond and my faith in its residents.

I ask for your help and support. Together we can build that city that is a true home for all of us.

KEY ISSUES

• One Richmond: Building unity from our diversity, Bringing our communities together to solve our common problems
• A team approach to dealing with the problems at the root of youth violence
• Rebuilding our commercial corridors, instead of encouraging shoreline commercial development.
• Developing and diversifying our economy with new green technologies and more support for small business. Helping small businesses get through red-tape .
• No Urban casinos. Make our open shoreline a Bay Area Destination
• Promoting community savings and home ownership.
• Supporting local cooperatives, land trusts, public transportation, alternative energy sources, community utilities, and urban farming