Activism

California State Gov and Advocacy Orgs Are Empowering Domestic Abuse Survivors on Path to Healing

In California, about 42.5% of Black women have experienced some form of IPV, compared to 34.9% of all women in the state, according to a Blue Shield of California Foundation report. This abuse can be physical, psychological, financial, sexual emotional.. Even after the abuse ends, some survivors experience physical health issues like chronic pain, stomach issues, heart disease and diabetes, as well as mental health issues like eating disorders, headaches, and insomnia. Guns and gender violence are a particularly dangerous combination for Black women.

Published

1 year ago

December 23, 2024

Oakland Post

Edward Henderson | California Black Media

California native Sheilah Kimble says she was far from home, living in Buffalo, NY, when her partner became physically and verbally abusive.

“There were several occasions when I reached out to different agencies to assist me with my situation,” remembers Kimble, who is from South Los Angeles County. “I felt nobody wanted to help. Nobody gave me advice because I was from a marginalized community. I was not aware of any resources, so I thought they were limited.”

Kimble says her 5-month-old daughter would sometimes witness the abuse and hide behind her crib, cowering in fear.

Despite the harm to her, her daughter and son, it was hard for Kimble to gain the strength to leave.

“They call that trauma-bonding. It’s unhealthy,” said Kimble.

As the violence in her home escalated, law enforcement got involved and social services threatened to take her son away.

“A social worker would come by and ask certain questions. Being in an abusive relationship, you pretty much are controlled and coached. So, I was afraid to say certain things,” Kimble continued.

Eventually, the social worker helped Kimble find a shelter and connected her with the resources she needed to get back to her family in California.

Like Kimble, victims of domestic violence (DV) or intimate partner violence (IPV) often struggle to find a way out and, often, they must consider the safety of not just themselves — but that of their children as well.

In California, about 42.5% of Black women have experienced some form of IPV, compared to 34.9% of all women in the state, according to a Blue Shield of California Foundation report. This abuse can be physical, psychological, financial, sexual emotional.. Even after the abuse ends, some survivors experience physical health issues like chronic pain, stomach issues, heart disease and diabetes, as well as mental health issues like eating disorders, headaches, and insomnia. Guns and gender violence are a particularly dangerous combination for Black women.

According to the California Black Women’s Health Project, DV is the number one health issue Black women in California face.

To address the alarming rates of DV and IPV in the state –and the disproportionate rate of incidents in African American communities — the State of California and advocacy organizations across the state are wrapping their arms around victims, providing them resources and taking a number of policy actions to address the problem.

“Domestic violence continues to disproportionately impact women, leaving many survivors trapped in cycles of abuse with limited resources to escape. This burden is not just felt in broken bodies and hearts, but in economic devastation that undermines women’s independence and security,” said First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom in a statement earlier this year.

In September, Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a package of eight laws to protect victims of DV. Those laws address the following issues:

Created a new victim restitution fund for survivors of domestic abuse and other crimes

Expanded access to restraining orders and streamlined the process of obtaining them

Established a partnership with car manufacturers to prevent victim tracking; equipped investigators with more tools to prevent cases from being improperly classified as homicides

Increased public awareness about financial abuse and provided resources to help victims exit violent domestic situations

Lenore A. Tate, PhD, is a Licensed Psychologist/Professional Consultant
Dr. Lenore Tate is a licensed psychologist based in the Bay Area who has been an expert in trauma-informed care for over 30 years. She believes the first step in overcoming domestic violence is recognizing that you are in an abusive relationship.

Dr. Lenore Tate is a licensed psychologist based in the Bay Area who has been an expert in trauma-informed care for over 30 years. She believes the first step in overcoming domestic violence is recognizing that you are in an abusive relationship.

“Historically, in our Black families, speaking about domestic violence has been taboo. So, to reach out for help also adds an extra layer of emotional trauma shame and remorse,” said Tate.

To recognize a domestic violence situation, Tate notes that there are at least 8 categories to consider.

“Physical abuse is obviously one,” Tate says.

“But there are also a number of other categories,” she continued, “such as intimidation, coercion, fiduciary or economic abuse, economic control, the way one abuses his or her authority, using loved ones to control the relationship, minimizing and denying and or blaming others, and of course social isolation, keeping that person away from their family. And lastly, verbal attacks.”

Across California, there are many organizations providing resources to individuals to help them escape and heal from domestic violence situations.

Christoper Negri is the Associate Director of Public Policy Strategies for the California Partnership to End Domestic Violence (The Partnership). The organization represents a vast network of service providers throughout the state.

“We exist to represent the folks who are doing this work in community. Our member programs will provide shelter, they’ll provide legal representation to survivors, they’ll provide counseling services, many different types of services and support to domestic violence survivors. We as a partnership, representing them, we provide training and technical assistance to them. We provide a voice in institutions of power.”

With the help from service providers like those represented by The Partnership, Kimble and her family have made significant progress on their road to recovery. She is now a published author, screenwriter and playwright. She also started her own non-profit committed to aiding other survivors named in honor of her son called The Arthur Lee Ducantell II Foundation.

“That’s part of my healing, to be able to share,” Kimble said. To help others. I believe in a relationship with God. And I think that He put me in that position to be able to teach batterers.”

If you or someone you know in California is experiencing domestic violence, call 1-800-799-7233, visit the California Partnership to End Domestic Violence at CPEDV.org, search this database at FindaHelpline.com for organizations serving your area, or use this map to find resources near you.

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Big God Ministry Gives Away Toys in Marin City

Pastor Hall also gave a message of encouragement to the crowd, thanking Jesus for the “best year of their lives.” He asked each of the children what they wanted to be when they grow up.

Published

4 days ago

December 29, 2025

Oakland Post

From top left: Pastor David Hall asking the children what they want to be when they grow up. Worship team Jake Monaghan, Ruby Friedman, and Keri Carpenter. Children lining up to receive their presents. Photos by Godfrey Lee.

By Godfrey Lee

Big God Ministries, pastored by David Hall, gave toys to the children in Marin City on Monday, Dec. 15, on the lawn near the corner of Drake Avenue and Donahue Street.

Pastor Hall also gave a message of encouragement to the crowd, thanking Jesus for the “best year of their lives.” He asked each of the children what they wanted to be when they grew up.

Around 75 parents and children were there to receive the presents, which consisted mainly of Gideon Bibles, Cat in the Hat pillows, Barbie dolls, Tonka trucks, and Lego building sets.

A half dozen volunteers from the Big God Ministry, including Donnie Roary, helped to set up the tables for the toy giveaway. The worship music was sung by Ruby Friedman, Keri Carpenter, and Jake Monaghan, who also played the accordion.

Big God Ministries meets on Sundays at 10 a.m. at the Mill Valley Community Center, 180 Camino Alto, Mill Valley, CA Their phone number is (415) 797-2567.

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First 5 Alameda County Distributes Over $8 Million in First Wave of Critical Relief Funds for Historically Underpaid Caregivers

“Family, Friend, and Neighbor caregivers are lifelines for so many children and families in Alameda County,” said Kristin Spanos, CEO, First 5 Alameda County. “Yet, they often go unrecognized and undercompensated for their labor and ability to give individualized, culturally connected care. At First 5, we support the conditions that allow families to thrive, and getting this money into the hands of these caregivers and families at a time of heightened financial stress for parents is part of that commitment.”

Published

4 days ago

December 29, 2025

Oakland Post

Costco. Courtesy image.

Family, Friend, and Neighbor Caregivers Can Now Opt Into $4,000 Grants to Help Bolster Economic Stability and Strengthen Early Learning Experiences

By Post Staff

Today, First 5 Alameda County announced the distribution of $4,000 relief grants to more than 2,000 Family, Friend, and Neighbor (FFN) caregivers, totaling over $8 million in the first round of funding. Over the full course of the funding initiative, First 5 Alameda County anticipates supporting over 3,000 FFN caregivers, who collectively care for an estimated 5,200 children across Alameda County. These grants are only a portion of the estimated $190 million being invested into expanding our early childcare system through direct caregiver relief to upcoming facilities, shelter, and long-term sustainability investments for providers fromMeasure C in its first year. This investment builds on the early rollout of Measure C and reflects a comprehensive, system-wide strategy to strengthen Alameda County’s early childhood ecosystem so families can rely on sustainable, accessible care,

These important caregivers provide child care in Alameda County to their relatives, friends, and neighbors. While public benefits continue to decrease for families, and inflation and the cost of living continue to rise, these grants provide direct economic support for FFN caregivers, whose wages have historically been very low or nonexistent, and very few of whom receive benefits. As families continue to face growing financial pressures, especially during the winter and holiday season, these grants will help these caregivers with living expenses such as rent, utilities, supplies, and food.

The funding for these relief grants comes from Measure C, a local voter-approved sales tax in Alameda County that invests in young children, their families, communities, providers, and caregivers. Within the first year of First 5’s 5-Year Plan for Measure C, in addition to the relief grants to informal FFN caregivers, other significant investments will benefit licensed child care providers. These investments include over $40 million in Early Care and Education (ECE) Emergency Grants, which have already flowed to nearly 800 center-based and family child care providers. As part of First 5’s 5-Year Plan, preparations are also underway to distribute facilities grants early next year for child care providers who need to make urgent repairs or improvements, and to launch the Emergency Revolving Fund in Spring 2026 to support licensed child care providers in Alameda County who are at risk of closure.

The FFN Relief Grants recognize and support the essential work that an estimated 3,000 FFN caregivers provide to 5,200 children in Alameda County. There is still an opportunity to receive funds for FFN caregivers who have not yet received them.

In partnership with First 5 Alameda County, Child Care Payment Agencies play a critical role in identifying eligible caregivers and leading coordinated outreach efforts to ensure FFN caregivers are informed of and able to access these relief funds.FFN caregivers are eligible for the grant if they receive a child care payment from an Alameda County Child Care Payment Agency, 4Cs of Alameda County, BANANAS, Hively, and Davis Street, and are currently caring for a child 12 years old or younger in Alameda County. Additionally, FFN caregivers who provided care for a child 12 years or younger at any time since April 1, 2025, but are no longer doing so, are also eligible for the funds. Eligible caregivers are being contacted by their Child Care Payment Agency on a rolling basis, beginning with those who provided care between April and July 2025.

“This money is coming to me at a critical time of heightened economic strain,” said Jill Morton, a caregiver in Oakland, California. “Since I am a non-licensed childcare provider, I didn’t think I was eligible for this financial support. I was relieved that this money can help pay my rent, purchase learning materials for the children as well as enhance childcare, buy groceries and take care of grandchildren.”

Eligible FFN caregivers who provided care at any time between April 1, 2025 and July 31, 2025, who haven’t yet opted into the process, are encouraged to check their mail and email for an eligibility letter. Those who have cared for a child after this period should expect to receive communications from their child care payment agency in the coming months. FFN caregivers with questions may also contact the agency they work with to receive child care payments, or the First 5 Alameda help desk, Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. PST, at 510-227-6964. The help desk will be closed 12/25/25 – 1/1/26. Additional grant payments will be made on a rolling basis as opt-ins are received by the four child care payment agencies in Alameda County.

Beginning in the second year of Measure C implementation, FFN caregivers who care for a child from birth to age five and receive an Alameda County subsidized voucher will get an additional $500 per month. This amounts to an annual increase of about $6,000 per child receiving a subsidy. Together with more Measure C funding expected to flow back into the community as part of First 5’s 5-Year Plan, investments will continue to become available in the coming year for addressing the needs of childcare providers in Alameda County.

About First 5 Alameda County

First 5 Alameda County builds the local childhood systems and supports needed to ensure our county’s youngest children are safe, healthy, and ready to succeed in school and life.

Our Mission

In partnership with the community, we support a county-wide continuous prevention and early intervention system that promotes optimal health and development, narrows disparities, and improves the lives of children from birth to age five and their families.

Our Vision

Every child in Alameda County will have optimal health, development, and well-being to reach their greatest potential.

Learn more at www.first5alameda.org.

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2025 in Review: Seven Questions for Assemblymember Lori Wilson — Advocate for Equity, the Environment, and More

Her rise has also included several historic firsts: she is the only Black woman ever appointed to lead the influential Assembly Transportation Committee, and the first freshman legislator elected Chair of the California Legislative Black Caucus. She has also been a vocal advocate for vulnerable communities, becoming the first California legislator to publicly discuss being the parent of a transgender child — an act of visibility that has helped advanced representation at a time when political tensions related to social issues and culture have intensified.

Published

4 days ago

December 29, 2025

Oakland Post

Assemblymember Lori D. Wilson (D-Suisun City). File photo.

By Edward Henderson, California Black Media

Assemblymember Lori D. Wilson (D-Suisun City) joined the California Legislature in 2022 after making history as Solano County’s first Black female mayor, bringing with her a track record of fiscal discipline, community investment, and inclusive leadership.

She represents the state’s 11th Assembly District, which spans Solano County and portions of Contra Costa and Sacramento Counties.

California Black Media spoke with Wilson about her successes and disappointments this year and her outlook for 2026.

What stands out as your most important achievement this year?

Getting SB 237 passed in the Assembly. I had the opportunity to co-lead a diverse workgroup of colleagues, spanning a wide range of ideological perspectives on environmental issues.

How did your leadership contribute to improving the lives of Black Californians this year?

The Black Caucus concentrated on the Road to Repair package and prioritized passing a crucial bill that remained incomplete during my time as chair, which establishes a process for identifying descendants of enslaved people for benefit eligibility.

What frustrated you the most this year?

The lack of progress made on getting Prop 4 funds allocated to socially disadvantaged farmers. This delay has real consequences. These farmers have been waiting for essential support that was promised. Watching the process stall, despite the clear need and clear intent of the voters, has been deeply frustrating and reinforces how much work remains to make our systems more responsive and equitable.

What inspired you the most this year?

The resilience of Californians persists despite the unprecedented attacks from the federal government. Watching people stay engaged, hopeful, and determined reminded me why this work matters and why we must continue to protect the rights of every community in our state.

What is one lesson you learned this year that will inform your decision-making next year?

As a legislator, I have the authority to demand answers to my questions — and accept nothing less. That clarity has strengthened my approach to oversight and accountability.

In one word, what is the biggest challenge Black Californians are facing currently?

Affordability and access to quality educational opportunities.

What is the goal you want to achieve most in 2026?

Advance my legislative agenda despite a complex budget environment. The needs across our communities are real, and even in a tight fiscal year, I’m committed to moving forward policies that strengthen safety, expand opportunity, and improve quality of life for the people I represent.