SAN DIEGO COUNTY, Calif. — The ambiance at Jasmine Seafood Restaurant transformed into a dynamic forum during the “Nights of the Roundtables,” where political candidates vying for office across San Diego County and California engaged in meaningful dialogue on pressing issues affecting the community, particularly those highlighted by the Asian Pacific American Coalition (APAC). This event provided an invaluable opportunity for constituents to hear directly from the candidates about their visions and proposed solutions.
Steve Hsieh, Chairman of the Asian Pacific American Coalition Board, emphasized the importance of civic engagement, stating, “We want to promote awareness that your vote is important and your vote counts.” This message resonated throughout the evening, underscoring the collective responsibility of voters to participate in the democratic process.
The format of the event was uniquely engaging: each candidate spent approximately ten minutes at a table, answering questions from attendees before rotating to the next table. This approach fostered a dynamic and interactive atmosphere, allowing community members to gain insights into various candidates’ perspectives on crucial issues.
Addressing Homelessness in San Diego County
Among the topics of discussion, the homelessness crisis in San Diego County drew significant attention. Event attendee Toai Goins, a longtime resident of San Diego County, expressed her deep concern regarding this pressing issue. “I am very concerned about the homeless people,” Goins stated, highlighting the urgency of the matter and the need for effective solutions.
Terra Lawson-Remer, a candidate for reelection to the San Diego County Supervisor District 3 seat, stressed the necessity of increasing shelter beds as a pivotal strategy in combating homelessness. “We need to focus on assisting our seniors, addressing mental health challenges, and providing support for those struggling with substance abuse. We must ensure that there are more shelter beds available,” Lawson-Remer asserted. Her commitment to comprehensive solutions reflects the broader concern for vulnerable populations within the community.
Former San Diego Mayor Kevin Faulconer, also vying for the District 3 seat, articulated a strong message regarding the need for accountability in addressing homelessness. “The community deserves a supervisor who will stand up for them, someone who will support Proposition 36 and work to ensure accountability on our streets,” Faulconer declared. His call to action resonates with many community members who seek proactive leadership in tackling this crisis.
Fostering Compassion in Addiction Recovery
In addition to homelessness, the topic of addiction recovery emerged as a crucial area of discussion. Attendee Gia Ngo raised an important question regarding the incorporation of compassion into addiction treatment. “I was wondering how they are going to implement kindness, fairness, and compassion to help people facing addiction,” Ngo shared, reflecting the need for a humane approach to this complex issue.
Faulconer responded by highlighting the necessity for intervention and support in breaking the cycle of addiction. “We need to provide the help and support that individuals deserve, but we must also hold people accountable for their actions,” he stated. This balance between compassion and accountability is essential in creating effective addiction recovery programs.
Lawson-Remer echoed Faulconer’s sentiments, emphasizing the critical need to expand bed capacity for treatment facilities. “More than anything, we need to build up the bed capacity, and that’s something I have championed. “It may be challenging, but it is essential,” she affirmed.
The event, organized by APAC, has been a staple in the community for about a decade, fostering direct engagement between candidates and constituents. While some candidates were unable to attend, the participation of those present underscored the importance of dialogue in the electoral process.
Get Involved!
As San Diego County prepares for the upcoming elections, it is imperative for community members to stay informed and engaged. Each vote carries weight, and participating in events like “Nights of the Roundtables” provides a unique platform to interact with candidates and understand their positions on issues that matter. Let’s work together to ensure our voices are heard and our concerns are addressed. Be sure to mark your calendars for upcoming events and take an active role in shaping the future of our community!