Later this month, our own Senator John Burton will be inducted into the California Hall of Fame at the California Museum in Sacramento. This honor recognizes John’s lifelong public service and leadership, which have expanded opportunities for young people who have experienced foster care and homelessness.
Since its inception in 2006, the California Hall of Fame has recognized extraordinary Californians who represent our spirit of innovation and whose influence is felt nationally and internationally. Each year, the Governor and First Partner select a class of inductees from across the arts, business, entertainment, food and wine, literature, music, public service, science, and sports. John Burton is part of the 19th class to be inducted into the California Hall of Fame and is joined by seven other legendary individuals and one ensemble.
At JBAY, we view this recognition as more than an acknowledgment of John’s historic political career. It honors the vision and determination that transformed foster youth policies in California and continues to guide our mission today.
After decades of service in the California State Assembly, the U.S. House of Representatives, and as President pro Tempore of the California State Senate, John Burton turned his attention to one of California’s most significant challenges: ensuring young people leaving foster care receive the support they need to succeed.
At that time, young people leaving foster care at 18 often faced adulthood without stable housing, financial support, or family connections, and Burton knew California could do better.
By collaborating with youth leaders, advocates, and policymakers, Burton helped pass California’s extended foster care law, allowing young people to remain in care until age 21. This reform provided thousands of young adults with additional time to pursue education, secure housing, and prepare for adulthood.
In 2004, Burton founded JBAY to continue advancing policies that support young people who have experienced foster care or homelessness. Since then, JBAY has partnered with youth leaders and organizations statewide to expand housing, enhance financial security, and promote college success, resulting in billions of dollars in state investments and numerous policy changes that expand opportunities for young people in California.
“This year’s class embodies the very best of California — creativity, resilience, and a spirit of community,” said First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom. “These honorees remind us that innovation and courage flourish when people are lifted up by those around them.”
We can’t wait to celebrate this honor on March 19th, and we remain focused on the future (check out our current proposals here). JBAY is deeply committed to building John Burton’s legacy by continuing to advocate for policies that give every young person in our state, regardless of background, the opportunity to thrive.