Testimonials
Earthseed
“Leah's leadership on the advocacy and strategic management of the Silenced No More Act with both the California Legislature and the Governor's Office led directly to the bill's passage and signing. I cannot imagine working with a more organized, savvy, and wise advocate to get such a meaningful bill through the largest state and the world's 5th largest economy. Leah's knowledge of the priorities of different legislators, the legislative process as a whole, and the environment in which the bill was introduced made a very hectic session run smoothly. Her relationships and experience working with both private and public sector advocates and leaders also meant that she was able to deftly manage the advocacy for this high profile bill.
Leaders like Leah often go unmentioned in the coverage of historic legislation like the Silenced No More Act, but the impact of here work has been felt across the state as the legislation went into effect January 1, 2022, and across the country and globe as copycat bills were introduced in Washington State, Canada, and Ireland. Anyone considering a strategic advocate for legislation in California should have Leah Barros first on their list!”
— Ifeoma Ozoma, Earthseed
JOY Collective
“Leah Barros worked strategically within the complex system of the California State Legislature to help pass The CROWN Act with zero “no” votes and bipartisan support. Leah’s knowledge of the political process and strong relationships made her presence on the team invaluable. She was very attentive to our legislative agenda and understood our desire to have this critical piece of legislation pass with a mandate in order to set a strong foundation and build momentum for a national effort. My team and I are extremely pleased to have had the opportunity to work with her and recommend her services to anyone that’s in need of a strong and effective advocate.”
— Kelli Richardson-Lawson, JOY Collective on behalf of The CROWN Coalition
CHINESE FOR AFFIRMATIVE ACTION
“Stop AAPI Hate would not have had the level of success in our No Place for Hate CA campaign but for Leah Barros. Leah was instrumental at every step of the legislative process, and her insights--gained from her years of experience in Sacramento--proved invaluable. Among Leah's many strengths is her uncanny ability to know how to message our bills to different audiences, including legislators, committee consultants, state agencies, and the Governor's Office. On top of her incredible knowledge of how to get things done in Sacramento, she is also a wonderful person to work with. Leah is accessible, responsive, and a brilliant thought partner. She works with you to accomplish your goals, and you will not find a better lobbyist.”
— Annie Lee, Director of Policy
AAPI Equity Alliance
"Leah brings a wealth of experience, talent, and heart to your fight. She is an expert at navigating the legislative process but just as importantly she is an expert in understanding people and what matters to them, whether she is representing a client who is new to Sacramento (like yours truly), neutralizing opposing interests, or persuading long-time electeds and staff, many of whom already know her. You can trust her to tell you what you need to know, when you need to know it, to tell it to you straight, to separate signal from noise, and to make the very best case for your cause. Her wise counsel and indefatigable boots-on-the-ground advocacy helped our coalition Stop AAPI Hate take two bills across the finish line that will make California a safer place for our communities. We couldn't have done it without Leah (and we wouldn't have wanted to - she has a great sense of humor)!"
— Candice Cho, Managing Director of Policy and Counsel
Independent Energy Producers Association
“Working with Leah Barros to address legislative issues has been vital to my association’s ability to successfully neutralize and support initiatives that impact its diverse membership. She has enthusiastically embraced our goals over the years and always takes the time to learn more about the unique needs of our members. Leah is always quick to respond and provides direct, honest feedback. Her strong relationships with Legislators, staff, and fellow advocates helps her stay on top of the latest intel and breaking news, which is no easy feat given how quickly information shifts in politics.”
— Jan Smutny-Jones, CEO
Colleague - Government relations
“When the Crown Act was first introduced, many industry associations considered opposing the bill as they viewed the proposal as creating one more opportunity for employers to get sued. Leah dealt with this potential problem head on (pun intended).
In a meeting of about 50 advocates from various industry associations, Leah heard their concerns, and walked them through what the bill does and why it is needed. She explained in detail how dress and grooming codes have a disparate and negative impact on African Americans, whose traditional hairstyles may not conform to Eurocentric standards of professionalism. This ultimately results in a form of legalized discrimination in workplaces and in education. Most importantly, Leah spoke to the group as a contemporary who understands and appreciates the perspective of the group.
As a result of that meeting, concerns were allayed. The Crown Act went through the legislature with no opposition and became law. This was in large part because of Leah’s leadership, professionalism, and advocacy.”
— Michael Miiller, Director of Government Relations