FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – September 15, 2025

OAKLAND, CA – (September 2025) … Black Women Organized for Political Action (BWOPA-CA) proudly announces a historic leadership transition as LaNiece Jones assumes the role of State President and Chief Executive Officer, succeeding trailblazing founder Dezie Woods-Jones.

For more than five decades, Woods-Jones has served as the heartbeat of BWOPA, building a statewide network to uplift, empower, and advance Black women in politics, public service, and civic life. As she passes the torch, Woods-Jones reaffirmed BWOPA’s founding vision and expressed her confidence in the organization’s future: “This work has always been about making space—where we were once excluded—to lead, to serve, and to be heard,” said Woods-Jones. “Passing this baton to LaNiece is not just a transfer of title, but a continuation of purpose. She is ready, and we are blessed.”

Jones, a seasoned strategist who has served BWOPA for over 20 years as Statewide Executive Director and Chief Operations Officer, embraces this transition with both gratitude and determination: “It is with deep reverence and rooted responsibility that I accept this charge,” said Jones.

“We are going chapter by chapter—grounded in sisterhood, strategy, and a shared future. The legacy is alive—and so are we.” A New Chapter: BWOPA ONE This leadership transition launches BWOPA ONE – A Unified Framework for Transformational Change Advancing Advocacy, Leadership, and Political Power for Black Women Across California. Three Arms. One Mission. Infinite Possibility. Our Leadership Vision: BWOPA ONE

BWOPA ONE is one networked entity. It is a unified, transformational leadership model that centers the power, voice, and leadership of Black women to drive lasting change through advocacy, civic education, and political action. With this historic shift in leadership, BWOPA renews its unwavering mission: to activate, educate, and mobilize Black women in the fight for equity, justice, and representation in every corridor of power.