Mia Bonta is running to represent the East Bay in the State Assembly to continue working to push open California’s door of opportunity for communities that have for too long been locked out and ensure Californians of all backgrounds get a fair shot.

Mia has spent her career advocating for students and working families. After moving to Alameda more than 20 years ago, Mia worked for and led several nonprofit organizations focused on improving educational outcomes for low-income students. Mia currently serves as the CEO of Oakland Promise, a cradle-to-college and career preparation initiative across Oakland public schools. She has seen firsthand how the systems in our state — from education and the criminal justice system to health care and housing — often fail to provide for those they’re intended to serve.

Growing up, Mia moved 13 times in 16 years, and with every move she carried what was most precious to her: a crate of books. Education was the one constant in her life, and Mia was fortunate to attend schools that would foster her love of learning and offer her a caring community of teachers and administrators committed to her success. For Mia, education was life-changing, and was what first inspired Mia to become a public servant.

In 2018, Mia was elected to the Alameda Unified School District School Board, and she currently serves as Board President. In addition to her professional work, Mia has served as a PTA member, a school site council member, a member of Alameda Free Library Foundation, and an active community member. Mia also serves as a delegate for the district to the California Democratic Party, worked on several campaigns dedicated to electing progressive labor candidates, and served on the AD-18 Advisory Committees for Women, Education, and Early Childhood.