The R.E.A.L. Coalition (Regional Economic Association Leaders) is an association of some of California’s business and economic development entities, representing 20 member organizations and up to 15,000 employers who claim to collectively provide nearly four million California jobs. The business community represented by R.E.A.L. has expressed grave concern about the negative consequences of ending the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA). They say they risk losing hard-working, dedicated employees and will be impacted by related financial impacts. Members of the group organized a conference call to express their business members’ voice in wanting to see the DREAM Act pass immediately. Members of the media were invited to listen in and participate.
On the call were:
Gary Toebben, President/CEO, Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce
Paul Granillo, President/CEO, Inland Empire Economic Partnership
Alicia Berhow, Senior Vice President, Orange County Business Council
Jerry Sanders, President/CEO, San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce
Carl Guardino, CEO, Silicon Valley Leadership Group
KVCR is providing audio of the entire call. Thank you for understanding that this is a recorded phone call – We apologize in advance for the less than perfect sound quality.
The first voice you hear will be that of Carl Guardino who introduces the participants.