The Californer - California: Governor Newsom responds to DOGE's dismantling of AmeriCorps: 'Middle finger to volunteers. We will sue'

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~ In response to the recent dismantling of AmeriCorps by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), Governor Gavin Newsom has announced that California will be taking legal action against the federal government. The state will also be ramping up efforts to recruit for its own service corps program, the California Service Corps.

Governor Newsom expressed his disappointment in DOGE's actions, stating that it is a "middle finger to volunteers serving their fellow Americans." He emphasized that California will not stand for this and will sue to stop it.

The dismantling of AmeriCorps not only threatens vulnerable Californians, but also hinders disaster response and recovery efforts and economic opportunities. When the devastating fires struck Los Angeles earlier this year, AmeriCorps members were on the ground providing assistance. Even this week, they have been aiding in recovery efforts. However, with the agency's shutdown, these efforts are now hampered.

Josh Fryday, Director of GO-Serve, stated that DOGE's actions are not about making government work better but rather making communities weaker. He stressed that AmeriCorps members play a vital role in communities across California by teaching children to read, supporting seniors, and helping families recover after disasters. Fryday emphasized that AmeriCorps is not just bureaucracy but "boots on the ground."

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This dismantling of AmeriCorps is a stark contrast to President John F. Kennedy's vision for America as he spoke about the New Frontier in his famous speech in 1960. He called upon Americans to be pioneers on this new frontier and face its challenges with courage and determination.

However, today's reality seems far from JFK's vision as Governor Newsom bluntly stated: "Go f*** yourself. You're on your own." This sentiment highlights the importance of programs like the California Service Corps which is currently the largest service force in the nation.

Consisting of four paid service programs, including the #CaliforniansForAll College Corps, California Climate Action Corps, Youth Service Corps, and AmeriCorps California, the California Service Corps is mobilized at a crucial time. With the state addressing post-pandemic academic recovery, rebuilding from the LA fires, and planning for the future of its workforce, this service force is more important than ever.

In the 2023-24 service year alone, 6,264 AmeriCorps members in California provided over 4 million hours of service. They tutored and mentored over 73,000 students and supported 17,000 foster youth with education and employment. Additionally, they planted over 39,000 trees and helped thousands of households impacted by the LA fires.

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As Governor Newsom continues to prioritize the recovery of Los Angeles and support communities and survivors affected by the fires, he has also proclaimed April as Arab American Heritage Month in California. This proclamation recognizes the contributions of the Arab American community in the state.

Furthermore, in light of Governor Newsom's state of emergency proclamation to protect communities from catastrophic wildfires, a new online fast-track process has been launched to expedite critical wildfire safety projects. This process aims to provide state-level approvals in as little as 30 days.

In these challenging times where government actions seem to be working against its citizens rather than for them, it is reassuring to see leaders like Governor Newsom taking a stand for what is right and prioritizing the well-being of Californians.

Filed Under: Government, State

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