Communities across California have been hard at work providing feedback on the maps redrawing political lines in their neighborhoods. In Oakland, one of the redistricting outreach leaders is League of Women Voters member Jesse Kadjo. We sat down with Jesse to find out more about her League work.

Jesse Kadjo was born and raised in Paris, France, moved to the Ivory Coast at age 8 then settled in Milwaukee, Wisconsin at age 12. After graduating from Loyola University of Chicago with a degree in international studies, she continued her education, receiving her Masters degree in social justice and community development.

Her community activism began early. As a high schooler, her mom’s law school friends took her to her first political activist meeting which inspired her so much she became a precinct captain on election day and continued to take part in civic engagement activities.

“Getting involved in politics really early makes it important for the rest of your life. I have always been active in political cycles. Now, through my work on redistricting, I feel local government is where all the real power is,” noted Jesse.

Settling in California in 2014, Jess began working as lead labor representative for the City of Oakland. In 2019, an LWV Oakland board member invited her to a community event and she soon joined the League. Jesse became deeply involved in the work of the action committee, researching ballot measures and giving presentations throughout the city. Jesse soon developed a passion for community education on local redistricting efforts.

Why redistricting?

“You have to look at what’s at stake for Oakland communities in redistricting. It impacts what types of people are going to be elected and what kind of power we have in our districts. There are real world consequences to redistricting changes. We can’t afford to not be involved.”

Throughout the redistricting process, Jesse has worked to elevate communities of interest in many areas across Oakland.

Jesse thrives on challenging herself and enjoys learning from long-time League members. She has embraced the opportunity to delve deeply into issues like homelessness and the impact of local ballot measures on Oakland’s residents.

Why Join the League now?

The League has empowered Jesse to better understand the issues facing the community, especially the tax implications of the city budget.

“Join the League right now because it is one of the best places to learn how your city works and why,” Jesse emphasized. “I have been able to expand my world by being part of the League.”

Jesse notes that the League is still mostly white, even in a diverse city like Oakland. She believes we can work more with other organizations that lack representation, create a space for women, and recruit more young women of color to become involved in League projects. Right now, Jesse is gearing up for research and education efforts on local ballot measures ahead of the June election.

“Voting on measures has to be more than just reading a voter guide. We have to try and be deeper—I want to become a more engaged resident,” Jesse added.

In her spare time, Jesse enjoys spending time with her husband and new German Shepard named Bruno.