2025 CALIFORNIA EDUCATIONAL GUBERNATORIAL FORUM

The 2025 California Educational Gubernatorial Forum held on September 8th was an inclusive, nonpartisan event, advancing civic engagement, uplifting the next generation of leaders, and strengthening our state’s democratic process. Major California gubernatorial candidates from all parties were invited.

Held at California State University, Sacramento, the forum brought together California’s gubernatorial candidates, community leaders, student advocates, and elected officials in one dynamic space. It was a high-visibility event that convened community leaders and supporters from over 100 diverse organizations, including representatives from the CA AANHPI Advocacy Coalition, and the African-American, Hispanic, and LGBTQ+ communities.

This historic event was led by a steering committee of local APAPA student interns. The interns, equipped with local, state, and federal legislative and grassroots training and field experience, were excited and prepared to step onto the statewide stage as aspiring changemakers. We encourage our youth to take active leadership roles on their campuses, in their neighborhoods, at the state capitol, and as part of the steering committee that helped shape this important statewide event. It was truly an experience that inspired, engaged, and empowered our next generation.

11 candidates participated by sharing their remarks; Che Ahn, Toni Atkins, Xavier Becerra, Chad Bianco, Steve Hilton, Katie Porter, Tony Thurmond, Antonio Villaraigosa, Butch Ware, Betty Yee, and Leo Zacky. Each candidate was given the opportunity to share their vision for California.