I am extremely disappointed and heartbroken to learn that the open display of racism and intolerance at Pacifica High School was not an isolated incident. The protracted nature of these conducts and failure to take appropriate action by the school district should not be tolerated.

As a former refugee and immigrant who had faced racist taunts and endured extreme violence at the hand of racists, I am troubled that this sort of intolerance has been allowed to go unaddressed by the school and district administrators.

The "recently" uncovered videos, perpetrated by former and current students over the period of years, shows clearly that this is not an isolated incident. This indicates a systemic underlying culture that should not be tolerated or simply swept under the rug.

I am calling for a full and independent investigation in order to hold those responsible accountable for their action. There are universal symbols of intolerance and bigotry, such as Nazism, that we all must categorically condemn as a matter of humanity.

I fear that if Garden Grove Unified School District does not act swiftly to reverse this clear trend of racist and bigoted behavior, it will empower and embolden the fringe racist elements in our community.

Check out the full article covering this story from the Patch here: https://patch.com/california/newportbeach/nazi-salute-video-shared-threats-made-pacifica-high-school

Orange County continues to invest in shelters and outreach services for the homeless.

At today’s board meeting, the Orange County Board of Supervisors approved $13.4 million to continue funding for three homeless shelters in Santa Ana and support services for homeless residents. The County budgeted over $68 million for Fiscal Year 2018-2019 in funding specifically for addressing homelessness.

The actions taken today create a pathway to improving our shelters and continuing to support our homeless population. Now, more than ever, we need to ensure that individuals, who are experiencing homelessness, have access to resources that will lead them to become self-sufficient.

Orange County Approves $13.4 Million for Homeless Shelters

Last Saturday I had the honor of helping another group of kids make their first camping experience at Camp Sycamore at Mile Square Park a success.

It was great seeing these kids from the Santa Anita neighborhood participate in interactive activities such as archery and hiking. From a game of water-balloon toss to a scavenger hunt, they kicked-off their school year in a fun way.

I want to thank the Orange County Parks staff for their energy and support in making this camping trip a memorable experience for the kids!

Last Thursday Families Together of Orange County opened their second location in Garden Grove. This federally qualified health clinic provides wraparound services to the community including behavioral health, primary care, vision, dental, and more. Thank you to all involved for bringing these incredible services to the First District!

Last week Santa Ana High School held a ribbon cutting for its beautiful new SanArts Career and Technical Education Media Center and Library. This new center features a film, digital media, and music production studios.

A special thank you to Principal Jeff Bishop for being a strong supporter of education and vocational training opportunities for our Santa Ana Unified School District youth.

Last Wednesday I had a great time speaking to residents at a Calespana Neighborhood ice pop social! Our discussion was focused on the importance of providing mental health services to incarcerated individuals struggling with mental illness. I also got the privilege to meet Nico Silva, senior student from Notre Dame who is passionate about community development and making health services accessible to all residents. Thank you to everyone who attended!

What: Fountain Park Neighborhood Coffee with Supervisor Andrew Do

When: August 29 (7:15 AM – 8:15 AM)

Where: St. Barbara Catholic School – 5306 W. McFadden Ave., Santa Ana, CA 92704

What: Rancho Bel Air Ice Pop Social with Supervisor Andrew Do

When: August 29 (6:00 PM – 7:00 PM)

Where: Virginia K. Boos Park – 13831 Hammon Pl., Westminster, CA 92683

What: Madison Neighborhood Ice Pop Social with Supervisor Andrew Do

When: September 4 (6:30 PM – 7:30 PM)

Where: St. Anne Catholic School – 1324 S. Main St., Santa Ana, CA 92707

What: Morrison Park Neighborhood Coffee with Supervisor Andrew Do

When: September 11 (6:00 PM – 7:00 PM)

Where: Starbucks – 2701 N. Bristol Street #A, Santa Ana, CA 92706