Dr. Shirley Weber has made history as California’s first Black female Secretary of State. Her groundbreaking appointment marks a significant milestone in the state’s 170-year history and serves as an inspiration for women and minorities in politics.
Breaking Barriers: A Historic Appointment
On January 28, 2021, Dr. Shirley Weber was confirmed as California’s 30th Secretary of State. This confirmation makes her not only the first Black person to hold this position but also the fourth woman and fifth Black person to serve as a state constitutional officer in California.
“You have to do what you can while you’re there, and you have to make it count,” Dr. Weber stated, emphasizing the importance of seizing opportunities to create change. Her appointment represents a significant step forward in diversity and representation in California’s government.
From Sharecroppers’ Daughter to Political Powerhouse
Dr. Weber’s journey to this prestigious position is s. Born to sharecroppers in Hope, Arkansas, she moved to California at the age of three. Her family’s experiences, including her grandfather’s inability to vote, deeply influenced her commitment to democracy and civil rights.
Despite facing numerous challenges, Dr. Weber excelled academically. She earned her BA, MA, and PhD from UCLA by the age of 26 and became a professor at San Diego State University at just 23 years old.
Championing Education and Community Service
Before her political career, Dr. Weber dedicated herself to education and community service. She served on various boards, including the NAACP, YWCA, and San Diego Consortium and Private Industry Council. Her passion for education led her to serve on the school board, where she advocated for closing the achievement gap.
As an Assembly Member representing California’s 79th Assembly District since 2012, Dr. Weber has been a strong voice for her constituents. Her work has focused on education, budget matters, and civil rights issues.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Leaders
Dr. Weber’s ascent to Secretary of State serves as a powerful example for aspiring politicians, particularly women and people of color. Her leadership style emphasizes empowering others to become change agents and strong voices in their communities.
“What I have always tried to teach, to demonstrate to others, is that you can be a change agent, you can be the voice, you can be that strong back,” Dr. Weber explained. Her approach encourages others to take on challenges and make a difference.
A New Era for California’s Democracy
As Secretary of State, Dr. Weber aims to strengthen California’s democratic processes. She emphasizes the importance of voter education and engagement, particularly in understanding the fragility of democracy.
Dr. Weber’s unique perspective, shaped by her family’s history and her own experiences, positions her to be a powerful advocate for voting rights and civic participation. Her leadership promises to bring fresh insights to this crucial role in California’s government.
Dr. Shirley Weber’s appointment as California’s Secretary of State is more than a personal achievement. It represents a significant step towards a more inclusive and representative democracy, inspiring future generations to pursue leadership roles and make their voices heard in the political arena.
