The California Fuels & Convenience Alliance (CFCA), 7-Eleven, Inc, and 7-Eleven Franchisees hosted a Get Out The Vote rally in San Jose bringing together local retailers, small business owners, local elected officials, and voters in a final effort to unite the voices of Proposition 36 proponents before Election Day.

Proposition 36 aims to address some of the impacts of Proposition 47, which has contributed to increased retail theft, straining local small businesses and California communities. CFCA, 7-Eleven, and 7-Eleven Franchisees urge Californians to get out and vote, to support Proposition 36 to support communities and local retailers across California.

The event included a press briefing with remarks from local business owners, community leaders, 7-Eleven representatives and franchisees, and CFCA representatives. 7-Eleven and 7-Eleven franchisees recently announced $2 million in funds raised in support of Prop 36.

Speakers featured at this event included:

  • Elizabeth Graham, CEO, CFCA
  • 7-Eleven Representatives and Franchisees
  • Sanjiv Patel, APCA Chair and CFCA Member
  • Johnny Khamis, Former City Councilmember and Local Leader

 

“We want small and ethnic store owners, their employees, patrons, and the entire community to feel safe when they go out to shop, eat, and play,” said Elizabeth Graham, CEO of CFCA. “We think Prop 36 is a step in the right direction to get us to a place of safety again.”

“Today’s event is a testament to the dedication of our Franchisees and the entire 7-Eleven family. We stand united in our belief that Prop 36 is crucial for protecting local businesses and the communities they operate in,” said Randy Quinn, Senior Vice President of Franchise Operations for 7-Eleven, Inc. “We cannot accept the status quo. Together, we are taking a stand.”

Sukhi Sandhu, Chairman of the National Coalition of Associations of 7-Eleven Franchisees (NCASEF), highlighted the broader implications for Franchisees and small business owners across the state. “Today, we showed that 7-Eleven Franchisees are more than just business owners, we are a vital part of the community. Prop 36 represents hope for the future. By standing together, we can make a real difference in addressing retail theft and advocate for the changes necessary to protect our businesses and neighborhoods.”

Proposition 36 plays a critical role in protecting small businesses, protecting our communities, and reducing crime in the retail sector. CFCA, 7-Eleven, and its partners urge Californians to vote yes on Prop 36. In every public poll – including Berkely ISG, PPIC, and USC, CSU Long Beach, and Cal Poly Pomona – Californians across political parties and regions overwhelmingly support Prop 36.