On June 11, 2025, veteran leaders from across California converged in Sacramento for All Veterans Capitol Advocacy Day, a signature event hosted by the California State Commanders Veterans Council (CSCVC). Held at the March Fong Eu Secretary of State Building, this day-long event brought together over a dozen veterans service organizations committed to strengthening legislative impact and advancing key policy priorities for California’s veterans and military families.
The morning program featured high-level briefings and updates from some of the state’s most influential leaders, including Assemblymember James Ramos (author of AB 53, the military retirement tax exemption bill), Assemblywoman Pilar Schiavo, Senator Bob Archuleta, CalVet Secretary Lindsey Sin and her executive leadership team, as well as Jon Siepmann, Executive Director of the Governor’s Military Council.
Following a working lunch and networking session, attendees crossed the street into the Capitol Swing Space—a temporary location housing legislative offices during Capitol renovations—where they engaged in face-to-face conversations with legislators and staff. Veterans discussed not only current legislation such as AB 53, but also educated officials on emerging issues impacting veterans, service members, and their families. These dialogues also included potential future bills that the CSCVC may consider sponsoring—proposals that align with the council’s Legislative Priorities, including mental health care access, earned benefit protections, and military family readiness.
“All-Veterans Day at the Capitol was a great success this year!” said Seth Reeb, legislative advocate for veterans service organizations. “Attendees were able to hear and interact with speakers ranging from key legislators to the Secretary of CalVet and the Executive Director of the Governor’s Military Council. All 120 legislative offices were visited by a veteran who left behind a folder of information on veterans legislation and other key issues. This was grassroots advocacy at its best and I thank all who participated.”
The event was proudly sponsored by the California Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the United States (CALEANGUS), whose Board of Directors unanimously approved the sponsorship in keeping with its mission to elevate enlisted voices and empower legislative action.
“Our board proudly supported this event because advocacy is not just part of our mission—it is our responsibility,” said CMSgt Joshua J. Baker, President of CALEANGUS and Legislative Director for CSCVC. “The success of All Vets Day 2025 proves what can be accomplished when veterans unite across affiliations to engage directly with policymakers. I’m incredibly proud of everyone who showed up to speak, listen, and walk the halls of the Capitol with purpose.”
As California continues to navigate budgetary challenges and federal policy shifts, sustained engagement by veteran leaders remains essential. All Vets Day 2025 served as a powerful example of what happens when knowledge, commitment, and collaboration come together in service of our state’s military community.
