The California Transportation Commission's Equity Advisory Committee (EAC) kicked off its 2025-2027 cohort with a strong emphasis on embedding equity into transportation policies and practices. During the meeting held on March 12, 2025, senior advisor on race and equity, who uses she/they pronouns, welcomed members both in-person and virtually, expressing gratitude for their commitment to representing underserved communities.

California's Transportation Secretary, Tomas Schocken, highlighted the committee's unique role in shaping equitable outcomes for all Californians. He stressed the importance of collaboration among state departments to ensure that transportation decisions prioritize people over vehicles. Schocken outlined the committee's core priorities: equity, safety, climate action, and economic prosperity, emphasizing the need for a transportation system that serves everyone, regardless of income, race, or location.

Paul Golazewski, Chief Deputy Director of the California Transportation Commission, reiterated the committee's critical function in guiding transportation investments that reflect community needs. He encouraged members to engage in meaningful dialogue and share their insights to help shape long-term equity-focused initiatives.

The meeting also featured a welcome from Henry Lee, CEO of Sacramento Regional Transit, who underscored the importance of public transit as a lifeline for marginalized communities. He expressed excitement about the committee's potential impact on transportation equity and economic opportunities across California.

As the meeting progressed, members introduced themselves, sharing their diverse backgrounds and areas of expertise, which ranged from environmental justice to community planning. This diversity is seen as a vital asset in addressing the complex challenges of transportation equity.

The EAC's work is poised to influence transportation policies significantly, with members committed to advocating for the needs of historically underserved populations. The committee's efforts aim to create a more equitable transportation landscape in California, ensuring that all residents have access to safe and reliable transit options.