California is home to more Native Americans than any other state, with urban, rural and suburban populations. Health epidemics decimated California’s First People since the encroachment on traditional tribal lands beginning at least during the 19th century by Spanish, Mexican and American settlers.

Will the COVID-19 pandemic become only the latest plague to which Native Americans are especially vulnerable and from which they disproportionately suffer?

HIGHLAND—Assemblymember James C. Ramos today issued the following statement on the passing of Dennis Hansberger, longtime member and former chairperson of the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors:

My family and I express our deepest condolences to the family of Chairperson Dennis Hansberger. Our thoughts and prayers are with them. Among my fondest memories of Dennis are the many times we spent talking about the history of San Bernardino County, often from my perspective as chairperson of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians.

Before the novel coronavirus hit California, we enjoyed a generous budget surplus, and state leaders hoped to use its financial stability to create affordable housing and reduce homelessness.

Crime Victims Week 2020

Each year California observes Crime Victims Week to focus on problems confronting crime victims and the services available to support them.

In February, I introduced ACR 167 to declare the week of April 19-25 as Crime Victims’ Rights Week. Unfortunately, COVID-19 prevented further action on this resolution. Crimes cause a tremendous toll – death, physical injury, mental trauma, financial losses.  

MEDIA ADVISORY

Tuesday, April 28 from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.

HIGHLAND—Assemblymember James Ramos (D-Highland) will hold a tele-town hall on April 28 from 4 to 5 p.m. with tribal leaders and state officials to focus on how California’s Native Americans can better weather emergencies such as COVID-19.