Mayor Becky Russo McKay Signs Resolution Acknowledging Black History Month

PINE OAKS, Calif. — Mayor Becky Russo McKay signed a resolution acknowledging and celebrating February as Black History Month early Wednesday morning. This was unanimously agreed to by the City Council via a voice vote. Below is an excerpt from the statement:

"The town of Pine Oaks, Mayor Becky Russo McKay, and the Pine Oaks City Council recognize February as Black History Month. Black Americans play an important role in American history, and this month it is especially important that we honor their achievements and continue to work towards a truly equal country."

Mayor Becky Russo McKay is expected to unveil a statue highlighting the prominent women of color that have impacted modern American politics, titled "Democracy's Foundational Women," later this week. The statue is to include many women of color who have worked to protect democracy and advocate for equality in recent political history. 

Mayor Becky Russo McKay Announces Appointment to Vacant City Council Seat

PINE OAKS, Calif. — Mayor Becky Russo McKay has announced the appointment of Elizabeth "Bessie" Resist to the vacant City Council position in Pine Oaks. A longtime part-time resident of California, Bessie has served as an active voice in local, state, and national politics and is a fearless advocate for democracy. Mayor Russo McKay praised Bessie's activism and her involvement in government when announcing her appointment in the council chambers this morning. Here is an excerpt:

"Bessie is a good friend of mine and a devoted advocate for pro-democracy policies and candidates. She will be a good fit to represent the citizens of Pine Oaks on the City Council. I have faith that Bessie will help our city and work to save democracy in our city, nation, and world."

Born Elizabeth Johnson, Bessie legally changed her last name to Resist in 2016 to make a political statement of her resistance to then-candidate Donald Trump. One year later, Bessie organized the first Pine Oaks Women's March in support of women and in opposition to the policy and rhetoric of former White House occupant Donald Trump. In the past seven years, Bessie has lived in multiple states to support and assist pro-democracy candidates all over the nation. She now splits her time between Portland, Oregon, and Pine Oaks. 

More information about Bessie will be included on the Pine Oaks website following her swearing-in.

Note: Bessie Resist uses she/her and they/them pronouns interchangeably. This statement uses she/her pronouns for consistency.