Six homeless women were arrested during peaceful protests in Sacramento

In 2022, Governor Newsom released a national housing plan – called “A Home for Every Californian” – to build one million affordable housing units by 2030. But housing and homelessness advocates, including members from Alliance of Californians to Strengthen Community – or ACCE – say he has not taken the necessary steps to fulfill that promise.

During last week's rally in Sacramento, protesters attempted to meet with Governor Newsom to voice their concerns, but he did not meet with them. When the offices they had occupied were closed at 6 p.m. on Thursday and the protesters refused to leave, they were arrested.

“I'm not housed myself, that's why I'm fighting. I’m fighting here for the people, for this right, because housing is a human right.”

This is Jesus Figueroa Cacho, one of six homeless women arrested. Jesus lives in Sacramento and works in healthcare, but has been unable to work for months due to an injury. She says she's on disability, but her disability checks aren't enough to pay rent in Sacramento. She had to sleep on her friends' couches and sleep in her car.

“It's embarrassing that California is one of the fifth largest economies in the world, you know, and they can't house their own people.”

Advocates like Jesus say they are frustrated with the state's funding priorities: Less than one percent des State General Fund was allocated for affordable housing and homeless programs.

Advocates are also concerned about the state's recent aggressive crackdowns on homeless camps – like this one recent city-approved “Camp Resolution” search. They say home evictions only worsen the housing crisis.

In recent months, the governor has taken a much tougher stance on homelessness. In August he threatened to cut off state funding from cities that “didn’t do enough” to clear homeless camps.

But Gov. Newsom's office says they have made “unprecedented investments” in housing, homelessness and mental health. They say they have spent more than $40 billion on affordable housing and $27 billion on combating homelessness since he took office.

Those arrested, including Jesus, were released on misdemeanor charges. They are scheduled to appear in court on December 16.