100 of Central Florida’s most influential people weigh in on current events. Read their thoughts on the biggest stories of the week and see what they think will make headlines next week.
Anna V. Eskamani, senior director of public affairs and communications for Planned Parenthood of Southwest and Central Florida
PREDICTION: A PROGRESSIVE COUNTY COMMISSION. Though Orange County voters overwhelmingly went blue for Hillary Clinton and the county is home to thousands of more registered Democrats than Republicans, the County Commission remains solidly red with five of the seven elected members being Republican. As the new federal administration comes to fruition I have no doubt that a progressive majority will begin to rise in Central Florida, one that will demand more affordable housing, transportation options, environmental protection, and better wages, too. My hope is that it will inspire politicians and the major corporations who fund them to not only listen to the people, but work collaboratively to find solutions, too.
RESOLUTION: DISMANTLE DISADVANTAGE AMONG WOMEN, PEOPLE OF COLOR. In Florida, women are poorer today than we were 12 years ago. This is according to a new report released by the Institute for Women’s Policy Research that also highlights the fact that women have less access to health care and development opportunities when compared to most other states in the country. Our region should focus on dismantling concentrated disadvantage among women and people of color, beginning with ensuring access to affordable housing, easy transit, and raising the minimum wage too