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Oakland's Measure E Campaign - Protecting Essential Services

On April 11, 2026, Oakland labor groups, including IFPTE Local 21, the Oakland Firefighters, SEIU Local 1021, and the Alameda Labor Council, united with community leaders to officially launch the Yes on Measure E campaign. This citizen-led initiative aims to maintain crucial services and ensure fire stations remain operational across the city.

A Community-Driven Initiative

In an impressive display of civic engagement, nearly 30,000 Oakland voters signed petitions over just eleven weeks to place Measure E on the ballot for the upcoming June elections. Dubbed the Oakland Public Safety, Cleanliness, and Community Accountability Act of 2026, the measure is being championed by a coalition of community members who recognize the necessity of local services in maintaining public safety and uplifting the quality of life in their neighborhoods.

Firefighter Support
Jose Sanchez, an Oakland Firefighter, noted the significance of this measure as it prioritizes emergency response times and works to prevent potential increases, stating, "Oakland Firefighters proudly support Measure E because it will keep our fire stations open and prevent 911 emergency response times from increasing, while lowering taxes for a majority of Oakland homeowners. When an emergency happens, seconds matter. Measure E protects our critical community and fire services."

Moreover, Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee echoed these sentiments, affirming that the community collectively identified the pressing need for continued support of local services to promote safety and cleanliness in the city. She asserted, "I’m proud to stand with our labor, business, and community leaders in support of Measure E to ensure consistent funding for services that keep our city safe, clean, and healthy, while keeping Oakland on the move!"

Accountability and Oversight

Further emphasizing the measure's importance, Antoinette Blue, a 911 dispatcher in Oakland, highlighted the crucial role of emergency services, stating, "As a 911 dispatcher, I see how much Oaklanders are counting on us in an emergency. Measure E will help maintain emergency response, while being accountable to Oaklanders with strong accountability provisions, including public spending disclosure, independent audits, and citizen oversight."

The campaign aims to engage the community to communicate the stakes involved, ensuring residents are informed about how Measure E works to alleviate concerns regarding essential services in Oakland.

Canvassing Event Details

As part of the campaign kickoff, a citywide canvassing event is scheduled for Saturday, April 11 at 9:00 AM. It will take place outside Jack London Fire Station No. 2 at 47 Clay St., Oakland, CA 94607. The congregation will include local elected officials, community members, and union representatives from organizations such as IAF Local 55, IFPTE Local 21, SEIU Local 1021, and the Alameda Labor Council.

Participants can expect visuals of coalition members wielding signs and donned in union attire, affirming their united stand for the initiative. Furthermore, speakers will be available for interviews both before and after the program to discuss their commitment to the campaign and its implications for the community's future.

Conclusion

The launch of the Yes on Measure E campaign manifests the collaborative spirit within the Oakland community as they proactively work towards preserving essential services and ensuring the safety of its residents. As they prepare for canvassing efforts, leaders are inviting all Oaklanders to join in supporting what they regard as a pivotal initiative for maintaining the well-being of their city.

Whether through volunteering or spreading the word, this campaign offers a meaningful opportunity for residents to directly influence their community's vital services and accountability measures for years to come.