For Immediate Release:  Friday, December 11, 2009

SACRAMENTO - California Young Democrats President Alissa Ko released the following statement on the election of Assemblymember John Perez as Speaker of the California State Assembly:

“I want to congratulate Assemblymember John Perez for his election as Speaker of the State Assembly. The unanimous vote of his colleagues is testament to a lifetime of fighting for progressive change as a labor leader and party activist–for the same democratic values that inspired stunning youth participation in 2008,” said Alissa Ko, President of the California Young Democrats.

“Assemblymember Perez made history by becoming the first openly gay person of color to be elected to state office. His election as Speaker is a tremendous reminder that we can make progress on many fronts, even as we prepare for an eventual repeal of Prop. 8. I am especially gratified because I know he is an inspirational figure to the LGBT youth who will be crucial to winning back our rights,” said Amanda Wallner, co-chair of the California Young Democrats Queer Caucus.

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The California Young Democrats (CYD) is the official youth arm of the California Democratic Party, comprised of progressive people ages 14-35.  The California Young Democrats are committed to creating a bloc of young voters who will elect Democrats for an entire generation.  Using proven peer to Peer campaign methods, Young Democrats have made significant differences in races all over California.  Young Democrats in California work everyday to promote social justice, women’s rights, peace and stability in the world, and many other progressive values.

The California College Democrats (CCD) is the official College student arm of the California Democratic Party, comprised of progressive students.

The California High School Democrats (CAHSD) is the official High School student arm of the California Democratic Party, comprised of progressive students.