FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 23, 2025

California Secretary of State Shirley N. Weber, Ph.D., Releases
Episode 1 of Season 2 of the “This Is Promote the Vote California” Podcast Series

Sacramento, Calif. – Secretary of State Shirley N. Weber, Ph.D., has released the first episode of the second season of the “This Is Promote the Vote California” podcast series.

Promote the Vote California is an initiative created by the Secretary of State to promote civic culture within California communities.

The second season of the “This is Promote the Vote” podcast focuses on the intersection of democracy and everyday spaces—workplaces, businesses, and communities—and the critical role each can play in advancing voter participation. This season’s podcasts also explore actionable strategies to combat misinformation and restore voter confidence during a time when trust in elections is more important than ever.

Season 2, Episode 1: Celebrating Progress, Strengthening Democracy: Commemorating the 60th Anniversary of the Voting Rights Act, was released today. This episode marks the 60th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Panelists reflect on the Act’s national legacy and California’s leadership in expanding ballot access for underserved communities. The episode underscores the ongoing need for vigilance, reform, and civic empowerment. Panelists include:

California Secretary of State Shirley N. Weber, Ph.D.

Former San Francsico Mayor and California Assembly Speaker Emeritus Willie L. Brown, Jr.

Journalist, educator, and former member of the Little Rock Nine Dr. Melba Patillo Beals.

Initiate Justice Inside Programs Associate Adam Cain.

League of Women Voters Outreach Coordinator Lexie Tesch.

The panel was moderated by KQED political correspondent Guy Marzorati.

The podcast is available at:

YouTube https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTRudFkt5xuXRLe7CYkVG0TD-0wDrFat5&si=69gXVJaLnCqhp6sL

Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/this-is-promote-the-vote-california-the-podcast/id1778548987

Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/1grGhKsKmH679oTUwGglUn

Keep an eye out for this season’s additional upcoming episodes:

The Business Case for Voter Engagement, with a planned release date of September 30.

The Impact of Your Vote and Handling Misinformation, with a planned release date of October 7.

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