[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 182 (Friday, October 31, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1027]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   HONORING REGINA WHITNEY AS ONE OF CALIFORNIA'S 8TH CONGRESSIONAL 
                      DISTRICT'S WOMEN OF THE YEAR

                                  _____
                                 

                          HON. JOHN GARAMENDI

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, October 31, 2025

  Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Regina Whitney 
as she is honored as one of California's 8th Congressional District's 
Women of the Year for her extraordinary public service and mentorship, 
for more than four decades she has advanced justice, equity, and 
opportunity for countless Californians. Regina began her professional 
journey as a legal secretary in family law, where for over a decade she 
supported attorneys and families facing some of life's most challenging 
circumstances. Her compassion and meticulous attention to detail 
reflected her belief that every person deserves dignity and fairness 
under the law. Building upon that foundation, Regina devoted more than 
20 years to the California State Attorney General's Office, where she 
served with distinction in the Department of Justice. Her work 
supported major legal operations that safeguarded the rights of 
Californians and strengthened public trust in government. During this 
time, she helped organize Blacks in Government, a national network 
advocating for equity in public service. Regina's leadership within the 
organization opened pathways for advancement, mentoring, and 
professional development for countless Black employees across state 
agencies. Today, Regina continues her advocacy with SEIU Local 1000, 
one of California's largest and most influential public-sector unions. 
In her role as a leader in labor relations and organizing, she has 
fought tirelessly for fair contracts, safe workplaces, and respect for 
public employees. Her work has secured tangible gains in wages, 
benefits, and working conditions, improving the lives of thousands of 
workers and their families across the state. Beyond her professional 
achievements, Regina has spent decades serving her community through 
volunteerism and mentorship. She has long been involved with Battered 
Women's Alternatives, providing shelter and support for survivors of 
domestic violence; serves as Secretary of the Richmond Commission on 
Aging, advocating for seniors' health and dignity; and contributes her 
energy to the NAACP Richmond Branch, promoting civil rights and 
community empowerment. She has also led women's mentoring programs for 
many years, teaching self-confidence, etiquette, and leadership to 
young women entering adulthood. Through her compassion, 
professionalism, and leadership, she has demonstrated that true service 
is measured not by recognition, but by the lives uplifted and the 
opportunities created for others. Her impact on California's public 
institutions and her enduring mentorship of others represent the 
highest ideals of civic leadership and public service. On behalf of the 
people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to 
honor and recognize Regina Whitney for her invaluable contributions to 
our community.