Beavers, Esther
From: jacquelinejones
Sent: Tuesday, August 18, 2026 11:20 AM
To: [email protected]
Subject: PUBLIC COMMENT: A Personal Call for Solidarity and Support for Black Women in Leadership
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To our esteemed city, county, and state elected officials, dedicated community leaders, and valued allies,
I write to you today as a lifetime member of Black Women Organized for Political Action (BWOPA), compelled by an unwavering belief in the transformative power of Black women's collective voice, unparalleled leadership, and inherent courage to ignite societal change. Yet, this conviction is shadowed by a profound and escalating concern regarding the escalating climate of hostility directed towards Black women in positions of leadership.
Across Solano County, we are witnessing a disturbing pattern of public denigration, intensely personal attacks, overt intimidation tactics, and cynical attempts to discredit the Black women who have courageously stepped forward to serve our communities. This insidious trend is not anecdotal; it is a systemic challenge illustrated by the recent targeting of figures such as BWOPA Solano-Napa Chapter Charter President and Fairfield Councilmember K. Patrice Williams, SCOE Superintendent Dr. Nikki Parr, and Elite Public Schools founder Dr. Ramona Bishop. It extends to Supervisor Wanda Williams, Vallejo Councilmembers Tonia Lediju and Helen Gordon, Suisun City Councilmember Princess Washington, and Vallejo City Council candidates Tara Beasley -Stansberry and Brianna Rodgers. These are not mere political disagreements; they represent a calculated effort to silence and marginalize.
Let us be unequivocally clear: legitimate accountability and robust debate are cornerstones of a healthy democracy. However, the line is crossed when scrutiny devolves into harassment, when dissent transforms into intimidation, and when political opposition becomes a smokescreen for racism and misogyny. Such tactics undermine the very foundation of civic engagement and deter talented individuals from public service.
This moment demands more than private condolences or quiet acknowledgments. We pose a direct challenge to our elected officials and allies: When will your voices join ours in a public, resolute condemnation of these attacks? Will you stand visibly and vocally alongside us, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to justice, rather than merely offering silent support? It is imperative that you articulate, without ambiguity, that racism, misogyny, intimidation, and hateful rhetoric have no legitimate place within our democratic discourse or our communities.
Black women are not seeking immunity from scrutiny or exemption from the responsibilities of leadership. We demand nothing more and nothing less than the equitable respect, inherent dignity,
and essential protections afforded to every other leader striving to improve our society. To deny this is to implicitly endorse a double standard that threatens the integrity of our public institutions.
To my cherished sisters in BWOPA and every resilient Black woman dedicating her life to public service: I see your sacrifices, I recognize your immense contributions, and I stand in unwavering solidarity with your tireless efforts. My voice will not be silenced in your defense.
And to our allies: your silence carries weight. Your voice holds power. Your active support is not merely appreciated; it is absolutely crucial. We do not ask for support at your convenience, or as a strategic move before your next campaign. We ask for it now — when it is most needed, when courage is most demanded.
We firmly assert our place at the table of leadership and decision -making. We will not be intimidated or coerced into abandoning our rightful roles. Our commitment to shaping a more just and equitable future for all remains unshakeable.
In Profound Solidarity,
Jackie Jones
BWOPA Lifetime Member
707-971-6869
"You don't make progress by standing on the sidelines, whimpering and complaining. You make progress by implementing ideas." Shirley Chisholm