UPDATE: Major leadership change in West Contra Costa County as Sonia Bustamante announces her resignation today, November 1, 2023, as chief of staff for John Gioia, the District 1 supervisor. After a decade of dedicated service, Bustamante is leaving to pursue a new opportunity aimed at empowering the Bay Area’s immigrant community.
Bustamante’s departure marks a significant transition for Gioia’s office, where she has been a pivotal force in advancing equity, inclusion, and innovation in the region. Her leadership has directly influenced key initiatives, including the establishment of the Office of Racial Equity and Social Justice and programs like Contra Costa Cares, which provides essential health care to immigrants, and Stand Together Contra Costa, focused on safeguarding at-risk immigrants from deportation.
In a heartfelt statement, Gioia praised Bustamante’s impact, stating, “Her vision and commitment have been instrumental in improving the lives of Contra Costans.” He expressed confidence in the transition, announcing that Robert Rogers, who has also served in his office for 10 years, will take over as chief of staff. Gioia emphasized Rogers’ extensive experience and deep passion for public service, asserting, “I am confident he will lead with integrity and purpose.”
As Bustamante steps into her new role at the SAFE Center/Centro SAFE, part of the Immigrant Action Network, she will direct efforts that are backed by $5 million in seed funding from Contra Costa County. The SAFE Center aims to connect immigrant families with vital services through a robust network of direct-service providers.
This leadership shift comes at a crucial time, as the community faces ongoing challenges related to immigration and social justice. The SAFE Center’s mission is expected to significantly enhance support for immigrant families, making Bustamante’s new role both timely and impactful.
For further information on the SAFE Center and its initiatives, visit immigrantactionnetwork.org or contact Bustamante directly at [email protected].
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops. The implications of this leadership change reach far beyond the local community, potentially influencing broader discussions around equity and immigrant rights in the Bay Area.
