California Cancer Action Day at Capital Hill on April 10 was a success

Advocating for Change: American Cancer Society's California Cancer Action Day on April 10th

On a brisk morning, amidst the hustle and bustle of Sacramento's Capitol Hill, advocates gathered for a pivotal event: the American Cancer Society's California Cancer Action Day. With a mission to bridge gaps in health equity and tighten regulations on tobacco products, the day promised to be both busy and impactful.

For many, the day began with an early flight and drive, symbolizing the dedication and urgency of the cause. Among the attendees was a diverse team, including seasoned volunteers and newer advocate like Colin Mach, a driven college student with a passion for healthcare advocacy. A graduate of San Marino High School Class of 2020 and soon-to-be alumni of UC San Diego, Mach exemplified the dedication of the younger generation to effecting positive change. He is soon to be a medical school student and continue his pursuit in the medical field in coming fall.

The agenda for the day was packed with discussions on key legislative initiatives aimed at combating cancer and reducing its impact on communities across California.

Senate Bills 1213 by Senator Toni Atkins (39th District) Every woman Counts, Senator Bill 1230 by Senator Susan Rubio (22nd District) The STOP and Seize Illegal Tobacco Products Act, and Senator Bill 1172 Senator Shannon Grove (12th District) Cancer Research Tax Donation checkoffs, along with Assembly Bill 3218 by Assembly-member Jim Wood (12th District) Flavor Tobacco Sale Prohibition: Enforcement, all these bills represented crucial steps towards achieving these goals. Whether it was closing loopholes in tobacco regulation or promoting access to vital healthcare services to women, each bill carried the potential to save lives and alleviate suffering.

Throughout the day, advocates engaged with lawmakers, sharing personal stories and compelling evidence to garner support for the proposed legislation. Their efforts were amplified through social media channels, using hashtags like #advocacy and #cacanceractionday to raise awareness and mobilize a broader audience.

As the day drew to a close, reflections on the impact of collective action filled the air. While the road ahead may be challenging, the unity and determination displayed at the California Cancer Action Day served as a beacon of hope. With advocates on my team like Jeff Kean, a bank executive at BOA (former National chair of American Cancer society), Jean Kagan, Board Member at ACS LA Board and a retired executive in the Medical Field and college student Colin Mach collectively leading the charge, the fight against cancer in California continues with unwavering resolve.

In the end, the success of the day was not measured solely by the number of bills passed or speeches delivered but by the sense of purpose and solidarity shared among all those who participated. The American Cancer Society's California Cancer Action Day was not just an event; it was a movement, a testament to the power of advocacy in creating a healthier, more equitable future for all.