By Carla Thomas

On Saturday, July 26, Black Women Organized for Political Action, BWOPA held their “Passing the Torch, Celebrating Legacy & Leadership” event at the Metropolitan Golf Course Fairview in Oakland.

Over 200 guests came to honor BWOPA founding member, Dezie Woods-Jones for her leadership, sisterhood, and dedication to the BWOPA mission of developing Black women as political activists and elected officials throughout the nation.

Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee, who was mentored by Woods-Jones, recognized her as a living legend, loving mentor, and community developer as she proclaimed Saturday, July 26 as Dezie Woods Jones Day in the City of Oakland.

She presented Woods-Jones a piece of traditional kente cloth, made in Ghana, from the Kamala Harris presidential campaign.

“As your mayor, I am privileged to present this mayor’s proclamation,” said Lee. “Whereas Dezie Woods-Jones’ tireless efforts on behalf of the underserved, the disenfranchised, women, and youth have earned her widespread recognition and respect as a transformative voice for justice.”

“Join me in celebrating her indelible contributions, fearless leadership, and unwavering dedication to our city, our state, and our collective future. May her legacy continue to light the path for generations to come.”

Lee expressed that Jones always knew the power of Black women and stepped into politics at a time when Black women were not taken seriously.

Trending

As Schools Reopen, Gov. Newsom Invests $123.9 Billion to Address Financial and Safety Concerns

“Dezie, along with Edith M. Austin, Alfreda Abbott, and Margaret Amoureaux, and several other Black women stepped out early in politics at a time when they were questioned, while facing hate, and pushback. Dezie always knew that Black women lead not only for Black women and the Black community, but for everyone. Because, who better than Black women, who have gone through so much, so many struggles, and who have uplifted so many people, can save this world if it isn’t Black women?”

Lee also commended LaNiece Jones for receiving the BWOPA torch as the new state director. Jones has served BWOPA for decades and is currently Lee’s director of community engagement.

Alameda County Supervisor Nate Miley joked that when he first ran for Oakland City Council, Woods-Jones discouraged him. Ironically, Miley ran a successful campaign and won. However, Miley valued and credits Jones for incubating the many Black elected officials serving the community.

“Years ago, Dezie pushed to rename 14th Street, International Boulevard,” said Miley. “Now, I encourage elected officials to rename International Boulevard, Dezie Woods-Jones Boulevard.” Miley also said he and his board have made a six-figure contribution to BWOPA to create a documentary about Jones’ life and “all the extraordinary things she has done.”

A variety of guests from as far away as Fresno and Madera, including Ladies In Red Founder Brenda Knight; Senator Ana Caballero, Senate District 14; BWOPA Richmond-Contra Costa County President, Joey D. Smith; volunteer Dondria Morgan, producer Lathan Hodge, and Teresa Cox of the U.S. Department of Commerce.

Cox, who has served on the Fremont City Council and the Ohlone Community College Board of Trustees, said Jones’s guidance was crucial throughout her career as an elected official.

“Dezie was always available and answered every phone call,” said Cox. “Because of her leadership, giving back to the community and uplifting us all as African American women, we’re able to move forward and keep the torch lit.”

Carla Thomas

Posts by Carla Thomas