The UCLA LPPI 2025 policy briefing held on January 29 in Sacramento gave fellows a unique opportunity to engage with key stakeholders, including labor leaders, nonprofit organizations, and California state representatives. Among the many impactful moments, the Diálogo inside the Assembly Chamber stood out as a powerful experience that underscored the significance of diverse leadership in public policy. 

As we stepped onto the Assembly Floor, we were greeted by a screen displaying a warm welcome: “The California State Assembly welcomes UCLA Latino Policy and Politics Institute Fellows to the Assembly Floor.” It was an honor to be invited into this space, where we were encouraged to sit in the assembly seats and experience firsthand the setting where legislative decisions are made.

For us, the highlight of the program was Assemblymember Sade Elhawary’s story. Representing California’s 57th District in Los Angeles, her journey from UCLA student to elected official deeply resonated with us. Hearing about her experiences reinforced the idea that leadership in public policy is not a distant dream but an attainable reality. As one policy fellow, Yvette Mendez, reflected, Assemblymember Elhawary was a “bright spirit,” and her story was like “looking into a mirror,” affirming that people from similar backgrounds can and should aspire to serve in public office. 

Equally moving was Assemblymember James C. Ramos, California’s first Native American Assemblymember, who performed a traditional Native American cultural song. Ramos noted that there was a time when he “wouldn’t have been allowed” to perform such traditions so openly and emphasized that his role is not just about holding a title but about inspiring other Native Americans and people of color to pursue roles in public policy and create meaningful change. 

Together, these moments reinforced a powerful recurring message to fellows: “You belong in these spaces.” These words carried extra weight coming from elected officials who once stood where we are today, reminding us that representation matters as a source of empowerment for what is possible. Their authenticity, courage, and shared experiences—combined with such diverse representation at the Capitol—instilled in fellows a sense of efficacy and inspired us to unapologetically pursue our career aspirations, even amid challenging national times. 

Overall, the Diálogo exposed fellows to career opportunities and representation in public policy, embodying LPPI’s mission of preparing the next generation of Latino leaders so they can address the most critical domestic policy challenges for all of our communities.

Estrella Torres is a senior majoring in political science and minoring in public affairs and Jessika Viveros is a second-year Master of Public Policy candidate. They are both LPPI policy fellows.