Ventura County Supervisor Carmen Ramirez

August 13, 2022

Elected Officials to Protect America mourns the tragic loss of our irreplaceable friend Carmen Ramirez who passed away Friday night after being struck by a vehicle in Oxnard. Carmen was the first Latina to be elected to the Ventura County Board of Supervisors and the first Latina to become Chair of the prestigious Board, as well as being a lawyer who was a trailblazer.

A bright star has been taken from us far too soon. Her smile, wit and charm lit up every room that was graced by her presence. Everyone who worked with Carmen knew of her passion, commitment, dedication and love she put into progressing justice for all. As an extremely talented lawyer she always stood up for the underdog despite tremendous obstacles. She was a compassionate climate champion who multiple times saved her community from the grasp of overreaching entities that were focused on profits over people’s lives. She helped make Oxnard a shining example of a city that protects the lives and livelihoods of residents by transitioning to a just clean energy future, amongst other measures. She worked tirelessly as a founding Leadership Council member and close advisor on our Elected Officials to Protect America California Chapter to make sure her beloved state ensures a just transition for workers while a 100 percent transition to clean, renewable energy happens with the urgency the climate crisis demands. She was a true leader.

In her office, surrounded by photographs of her family she always pointed out the youngsters saying that they inspired her everyday to continue doing what she did for they “are the future.” For all of us at EOPA, Carmen will remain a role model. We send our love and support to her family and share their sorrow.  

In her memory, and in honor of her legacy, EOPA is honored to announce the establishment of the Carmen Ramirez Scholarship Fund.

Oxnard Beach which Carmen fought to protect and succeeded