Welcome to Briefly, Colorado Politics’ daily news briefing. Here’s what’s happening today:

State Rep. Jodeh, Rep-elect Zokaie launch MENASA & Muslim Caucus

Rep. Iman Jodeh, D-Aurora, and Representative-elect Yara Zokaie, D-Fort Collins have announced the formation of the Middle Eastern, North African, South Asian (MENASA) and Muslim Caucus within the Colorado legislature. 

Jodeh and Zokaie are the first Palestinian-American and Iranian-American elected to the state legislature, respectively. 

According to Jodeh, who is also the first Muslim elected to the Colorado legislature, the caucus’ mission is to protect the civil rights and combat xenophobia and Islamophobia “by advocating for equity through legislation, collective action, public engagement, and amplified representation.”

“This past year and an impending Trump administration has underscored the need to create a united caucus that ensures our community’s representation and presence is elevated and has an uncompromising agency at the Capitol,” said Jodeh.”We are dedicated to advancing and guaranteeing accurate representation of the diverse MENASA population, including groups beyond Muslims, such as Sikh, Baháʼí, Hindu, Buddhist, Christian, and Catholic minorities. These communities also face anti-Arab and anti-Brown hate crimes, xenophobia, and discrimination. Our region and population are unique because we are forced to identify primarily through religious narratives rather than our unified identities. It is time to challenge this monolithic framing. By amplifying representation and advocating for equity, we aim not only to protect the rights of our communities but also to champion initiatives that foster justice, inclusion, and unity.”

“Growing up as the daughter of immigrants, I understand firsthand the importance of community support in navigating adversity,” said Zokaie. “Through the caucus, we aim to extend that support and bring meaningful change to our communities. With the approaching Trump presidency, it is more important than ever for our communities to have fierce advocates and mount a proactive and comprehensive defense. Should Trump attempt to reinstate a Muslim ban, we will be ready to put protections in place. We are committed to being a voice for the voiceless and amplifying the perspectives of those who so often go unheard as we fight in solidarity for a more just and equitable society. It’s a privilege to stand alongside Representative Jodeh to make a difference.”

The MENASA & Muslim Caucus has partnered with the nonpartisan organization East Meets West, which focuses on investing in and spotlighting companies, creators, and leaders from the Middle East, South and Southwest Asia, and North Africa. 

“We are so grateful to have partnered with Representative Jodeh and Representative-Elect Zokaie to launch this first-of-its-kind caucus and welcome more communities to join us to support our marginalized and often underrepresented and misrepresented community,” said East Meets West Senior Advisor Serina Khan. “Now more than ever, it is time to build new tables with unlimited seating alongside individuals and groups who share our values.”

Serve Colorado launches new regenerative farming apprenticeship

Serve Colorado has launched its newest registered apprenticeship program in regenerative farm management, aiming to address the need for sustainable farming practices in Colorado. 

The program, created through a collaborative effort by local experts and educational institutions, is funded by a 2022 Scale Up Grant from the state.  

“We are thrilled to introduce this new pathway for aspiring farmers,” said Lieutenant Governor Dianne Primavera. “This apprenticeship not only prepares participants for successful careers in agriculture but also addresses the growing need for sustainable farming practices in Colorado. By combining AmeriCorps service with hands-on apprenticeship training, we are creating a unique opportunity for individuals to gain valuable skills while serving their communities.”

The program will be open to four apprentices each year, with the first two scheduled to begin in March. It will be sponsored by the Mountain Roots Food Project and focus on two main tracks: regenerative agriculture and hydroponic farming. Each apprentice will receive at least 2,000 hours of training as well as 144 hours of instruction. 

“Developing Colorado’s next generation of agricultural leaders is vital to the stability and future of agriculture and workforce development in our state,” said Amanda Laban of the Colorado Department of Agriculture. “Organizations like Mountain Roots Food Project provide the necessary and tireless commitment needed to train and support our youth as they work to become competent and skilled farm managers. In turn, this creates a strong foundation for ag businesses to improve broader workforce opportunities for the people of Colorado. Mountain Roots’ continued efforts educating and training young leaders in regenerative ag practices inspire us at CDA and energize other organizations leading agriculture and Colorado into a brighter future.”

To learn more or apply for the apprenticeship, click here.