Sixty years ago, as a 15-year-old in California, I watched the events of Freedom Summer unfold in Mississippi. The courage of those young activists, not much older than I was, left an indelible mark on me and ignited a lifelong passion for social justice. 

Today, as your Secretary of State, I see echoes of that struggle in our ongoing fight to protect voting rights. Just as the brave volunteers of Freedom Summer faced violence and intimidation to register voters, we now confront new challenges to the integrity of our elections. 

The legacy of Freedom Summer teaches us that the struggle for democracy never ends. It takes vigilance, commitment, and the active participation of every citizen. As your Secretary of State, I am scheduling events throughout the State to increase voter registrations and provide information about election integrity.

So, as we head into another election season, I want you to know that your voice matters. We're working tirelessly to make sure everyone eligible to register to vote can, that every legitimate vote is counted, and that every attempt to undermine our elections is stopped cold. 

The young heroes of Freedom Summer fought to secure the right to vote for all. Now it's up to us to honor their sacrifice by exercising that right and protecting it for generations to come. Together, let's make sure the promise of democracy endures!

All active registered voters in California will receive a vote-by-mail ballot for each election. For the upcoming November 5, 2024, General Election, counties will begin mailing ballots by October 7, 2024.

You can sign up to receive automatic notifications by email, text, or voice call on the status of their ballot using the ballot tracking program, “Where’s My Ballot?” 

On Thursday, June 27^th, I had the pleasure to meet with students of Monterey County involved in the Leadership in Civic Engagement High School Summer Internship Program. This was an opportunity to talk with incoming juniors and seniors that are interested in participating in civic engagement and leadership. While empowering the younger generation is something that is dear to me, it brought me great pleasure to discuss how high school students can actively participate in local and state politics, how young people influence the future of voting and democracy in California and provide advice for those interested in pursuing a career in public service. I look forward to seeing the impact on democracy that is made by those individuals that were able to participate.

CARS Project Prime Vendor Announcement

I am pleased to announce the award of the CAL-ACCESS Replacement System (CARS) Project prime vendor contract to CGI Technologies and Solutions Inc.

Available at the California Museum June 18 – August 13

The California State Archives invites you to explore a traveling exhibit created by an interdisciplinary team of faculty and staff from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio. The Finding Freedom Summer Traveling Exhibit offers poignant lessons on the civil rights movement, racial injustice, and civil unrest.

The exhibit features panels that weave a compelling visual narrative using documentary photography rooted in history, activism, and civic engagement. It serves as a powerful reminder that the efforts of a few young individuals can profoundly influence a nation.

Come visit the Secretary of State complex to view the Finding Freedom Summer Traveling Exhibit firsthand. While you're there, participate in an online activity for a chance to win a California State Archives Button. If you are interested in learning more about our Freedom Summer Traveling Exhibit, visit our website or contact sosoutreach@sos.ca.gov.

Locations:

California Museum

1020 O Street, Sacramento

June 18 – June 21, 2024

Secretary of State Rotunda

1500 11th Street, Sacramento

July 22 – August 18, 2024

For more information about the criteria for the John Lewis Service Award, click here. If you would like to learn how to nominate someone, please contact the Secretary of State’s Constituent Affairs office at constituentaffairs@sos.ca.gov.

Job Opportunities at the SOS

Below is a listing of all current job openings at the Secretary of State’s office.

• Information Technology Specialist II – Information Technology Division (JC-440752)

• Staff Services Analyst - Campaign Analyst – Political Reform Division (JC-440830)

• Staff Services Manager I - Voter Information Guide (VIG) Specialist – Elections Division (JC-440309)

• Staff Services Manager I - Voter Information Guide and Initiatives Manager – Elections Division (JC-440396)

• Associate Governmental Program Analyst/Staff Services Analyst - Notary Public and Special Filings Admin – Business Programs Division (JC-439595)

• Program Technician III - Cashiering and Reconciliation – Business Programs Division (JC-439599)

• Supervising Special Investigator II – Executive Division, Investigations Unit (JC-417994)