Hilda Zacarias, Democratic candidate for the 33rd State Assembly District, won the Roosevelt Hamer 2010 Democratic Values Award on April 10th. The award is given annually by the Santa Barbara County Democratic Party to a local elected official who has excelled at growing and supporting Democratic Party grassroots efforts.

According to Roger Hart of the Santa Maria Democratic Club, “Hilda is a Latina and Harvard MBA who . . . has never forgotten her humble roots. During her tenure on the Santa Maria City Council, not only does she always put people first, but she has shown grace, humility, and has never flinched when fighting injustice.”

In accepting the award, Ms. Zacarias said “It is an honor to accept this award It is an honor to accept this award on behalf of others who believe in the fundamental basis of our democracy - participatory governance.”

Hilda Zacarias, an accountant and business owner, has been recognized as an Honored Alumna from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo and Allan Hancock College and graduated with honors with her Master’s Degree in Public Administration from Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts. She has worked to develop strong businesses, strong nonprofits, and strong communities throughout the Central Coast of California for over 20 years through elected office, professional achievement, and community service.

Ms. Zacarias is the only Democratic candidate for the 33rd Assembly District which stretches from San Miguel to Lompoc. She is supported by a diverse coalition of community members, including elected officials, business owners, law enforcement, teachers, students, and grassroots leaders.