For the first time, the majority of committees in the California Assembly are chaired by women, marking a significant milestone in women's political representation.

Barbara Boxer, a former U.S. Senator, emphasizes the importance of diverse representation in decision-making processes for families and communities.

The number of Democratic women in the California Legislature has increased dramatically from 23 to 47 seats over the past decade.

As of 2025, women hold a majority in California's state Senate, with a record high of 58 women serving across both chambers, just two seats shy of achieving gender parity.

Recent social movements, including 'Me Too' and the overturning of Roe v. Wade, have galvanized women to become more politically active and engaged.

Boxer highlights how seeing women in positions of power inspires young girls to aspire to leadership roles.

She calls for continued organizing and innovation to close the gender gap in politics, urging new generations to take up the struggle for representation.

California has made significant strides in women's legislative representation, moving from 19th to 4th in national rankings since 2013, thanks to strategic recruiting by organizations like Close the Gap.

While movements like 'Me Too' have inspired political engagement, strategic organizing remains essential for achieving lasting change.

Support from groups like EMILY’s List has been crucial in providing funding and resources for women candidates, accelerating progress toward parity in Sacramento.

Reflecting on the past, Boxer recalls that in 1992, known as 'the year of the woman', only 6% of the U.S. Senate was occupied by women, a figure that has now increased to 26%.

The rise in women's representation in California's legislature is a testament to the effectiveness of targeted efforts and the potential for further progress.