Affiliate & Advocate Spotlight: Santa Clara County Move to Amend & Sunrise Movement RGV
In this edition of our Affiliate & Advocate Spotlight, we’re excited to showcase the incredible work of two affiliate and advocate groups that are making waves in their respective communities: Santa Clara County Move to Amend (SCC-MTA) and Sunrise Movement Rio Grande Valley. Both groups are tackling corporate power and fighting for justice, using their unique voices to push for the passage of the We the People Amendment (H.J.Res. 54) and to challenge corporate rule.
Santa Clara County Move to Amend (SCC-MTA)
SCC-MTA, led by Judith Wells-Walberg, continues to make strides in their advocacy efforts for the We the People Amendment. Recently, the group made headway in reaching out to U.S. Senator Adam Schiff regarding HJR 54. Thanks to the work of members Brian and John, a letter was crafted and sent to Schiff’s office with the SCC-MTA logo, emphasizing the need for action. Chris Taddeo has planned additional outreach to Senator Schiff, pushing for stronger support of the amendment.
SCC-MTA has also been active in supporting the California Fair Elections Act (SB 42), advocating for the repeal of the statewide ban on public financing. With Anne taking the lead, SCC-MTA has officially signed on as supporters of the bill and will ensure their endorsement is listed.
On the federal level, SCC-MTA continues their outreach to secure cosponsors for HJR 54. Representatives Mark DeSaulnier (D10) and Adam Gray (D13) are next on their list, with Chris taking the lead in contacting them. Their efforts reflect a dedicated, grassroots approach to pressing for change.
SCC-MTA is also developing a documentary on the influence of corporate power in politics. Patrick is leading the effort, and Episode 2 is currently being revised based on group feedback. Additionally, SCC-MTA has organized an Earth Day tabling event at San Jose State University on April 22, 2025, and a movie night featuring Vets Against All Enemies on April 23, 2025, to engage the local community on issues related to corporate rule.
We thank Judith, Patrick, Chris, Anne, Rob, Renee, and the entire Santa Clara County MTA team for their ongoing dedication and hard work to push for the We the People Amendment and support electoral reform in California.
Sunrise Movement Rio Grande Valley (RGV)
Sunrise Movement RGV is another passionate group making a huge impact in their community. Recently, they took to the streets outside the State of the City address in Brownsville, TX, where attendees had to pay a $50 fee to hear the city leaders speak. In a joint effort, Sunrise RGV, txyouthactivistalliance, and other local organizations hosted the Divest, Denounce, Elon Musk Rally, to challenge the harmful projects being pushed by Elon Musk, particularly his vision of space colonization at the expense of local communities like Brownsville and Boca Chica beaches.
Their rally called out the failure of Cameron County and the City of Brownsville to prioritize the needs of the people. Many volunteers took the opportunity to emphasize that local leadership has the opportunity to change course and finally listen to the demands of the community for justice and environmental protection - will they listen to the People or private interests?
Sunrise RGV’s work aligns closely with Move to Amend’s mission. Co-director Alfonso Saldaña is actively building an intersectional movement around the We the People Amendment, recognizing that the fight against corporate power is central to addressing a wide range of social justice issues. The Sunrise RGV’s efforts to challenge corporate interests, especially those like Musk’s space colonization fantasies, are directly connected to the movement for constitutional change. Their activism is crucial in raising awareness about the role of corporate power in environmental destruction and social inequality.
We thank Sunrise RGV and all partnering organizations for their commitment to environmental and social justice and their ongoing efforts to challenge corporate rule. Your advocacy is a vital part of the larger movement for a more just and equitable society. We look forward to seeing the impact of your continued activism.
Thank you to both Santa Clara County MTA and all the activists from the Rio Grande Valley for your tireless work in fighting corporate rule and pushing for the passage of the We the People Amendment. Your efforts are building momentum for a future where the power belongs to the people, not corporations!