Sonoma County Conservation Action is proud to endorse Jackie Elward for State Assembly, a proven leader whose life story, public service, and policy priorities reflect the urgency and values of our movement.
Jackie’s journey is one of resilience and purpose. Born in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, she immigrated to the United States in pursuit of opportunity and built a life grounded in service. From volunteering in her community to founding Les Enfants Baobab, a nonprofit supporting children in Kinshasa, Jackie has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to lifting others up. That same spirit defines her work here in Sonoma County.
As the first Black woman elected to the Rohnert Park City Council, and later as Mayor, Jackie has delivered real results. She has championed affordable housing, reduced homelessness through a housing-first approach, and prioritized investments in clean energy, public transportation, and open space protection. Her leadership reflects a clear understanding: environmental sustainability and social equity must go hand in hand.
Jackie’s priorities for the State Assembly align closely with the challenges facing Sonoma County and the broader North Bay. She recognizes the existential threat of climate change and is committed to advancing bold solutions, from expanding renewable energy and sustainable transportation to protecting open space and family farms. Her focus on wildfire prevention, drought resilience, and safeguarding our communities from climate-driven disasters is especially critical for our region.
Equally important is Jackie’s commitment to environmental justice. She understands that the transition to a clean energy economy must uplift working families, protect labor rights, and ensure that no community is left behind. As a labor organizer and educator, she has fought for fair wages, safe workplaces, and strong public schools, values that are essential to building a just and sustainable future.
Jackie also brings a regional perspective, having served on Sonoma Clean Power, the Regional Climate Protection Authority, and other key bodies shaping climate and infrastructure policy. She knows how to turn vision into action and collaboration into results.
At a time when our environment, our communities, and our democratic values face unprecedented challenges, Jackie Elward offers the leadership we need. She is bold, experienced, and deeply rooted in the North Bay.
We are proud to stand with Jackie Elward, and we encourage our members and supporters to do the same.
