Surfrider Ventura Goes to the Capitol!

Ocean Day is an annual event to bring our love of the ocean to the state’s Capitol in Sacramento. On May 7th, Brita and Zach from Surfrider Ventura met with State leaders to lobby in support of important legislation that will help protect our coast and ocean. They were joined by fellow activists, artists, and decisionmakers from across the state who are passionate about our stretch of the Pacific Ocean.

Zach’s summary: I had an amazing time. Met so many amazing people and talked with several people from different organizations and was able to learn about them and their passions/missions. It was truly inspiring to see all the amount of people from all different age groups and locations giving up their day or days to come and support the causes they believe in. I must say the Capitol building was saturated by all different sorts of lobby groups and seeing democracy first hand was eye opening. People do care and get out and show elected officials how much, it was wonderful.

1. There were about ten lobby groups with 10-12 people per group. 
2. Each Group had 3-5 bills to discuss with Assemblymembers or Senators.
3. Our Group "Abalone"  discussed SB 1178, AB 2236/1053, AB 2298,  AB1992, AB 80, AB 2537.
4. We had three Meetings. The highlight of the meetings (for me) was with our local Assemblymember Mr. Steve Bennett. Mr. Bennett was great to talk with and everyone did an outstanding job presenting their bills. He was very engaged and asked quite a few questions. 
5. We had several wonderful speakers please see below link with agenda that will provide information on the speakers. 

Shout Outs!

-  Laura Walsh (Surfrider CA Policy Manager) did an amazing job! 

- SF VTA!!!!! Jennifer Savage (Surfrider- Sr Plastic Pollution Initiative Manager) Thought our May Chapter Meeting "Storytelling Theme" was a great idea and came up to show her appreciation on how cool she thought our chapter is :-) . 

- Greg Helms (Ocean Conservancy - Manager Fish Conservation Program) Our Team Lead, did an amazing job prepping us and teaching us on the ins and outs of talking with politicians or their aides, overall how this day goes, etc.

-  Laura Deehan (Environment California - State Director) She was incredible hosting the event and the MC for all gatherings! 

- Brita was a great partner to be teamed up with, I enjoyed our time at the Capitol! 

Find out more about Ocean Day here: https://californiaoceanday.org