"Kristina Bas Hamilton is a fierce and indefatigable advocate for many Californians that would otherwise not have a voice in the halls of power. Her new book, Changemaker, is essential reading for any advocate who wants to impact state public policy. It is an honest and easy to understand guide to the basics of how to navigate the legislative process and pass a law in California."

"Changemaker is the guidebook all lobbyists wish they had when first starting out. Kristina Bas Hamilton has created a unique and masterful compilation of the "do's and don'ts" of the California legislative process that will not only save advocates time and heartache but will set them up for success. Changemaker decodes an intricate and often overwhelming process into digestible, actionable steps, making it an invaluable resource for aspiring changemakers. Kristina has done an excellent job reminding us that legislative advocacy isn't just the purview of high-priced professionals but is a tool for everyday Californians to make positive change in their communities."

"Grassroots advocates pushing for legislative change often feel like David facing off against Goliath. For my fellow Davids, I highly recommend Changemaker by veteran labor lobbyist Kristina Bas Hamilton. An inside and practical take on how workers can win legislative campaigns, Changemaker boldly recognizes an unsavory truth: the legislative process is far too removed and intimidating for the vast majority of Californians. This means successful advocacy is elusive to those who need it the most. The book aspires to change this by demystifying the legislative process to make it more transparent and accessible. Its powerful message reinforces the idea that, at its core, the best advocacy is led by those who understand the real-life impact of policies, an insight that has the potential to transform the way we engage with our governing institutions."

"Changemaker spells out the recipe for success inside California’s Capitol: it’s the right mix of good planning, building strong relationships, empowering grassroots leaders, and keeping the faith that makes for an effective advocate. I hope this book finds its way to the next generation of young leaders who can continue the tough and necessary work of advocating for big, bold ideas through the state legislature."

"Not since my childhood days of School House Rock have I enjoyed such a clear, concise, and accessible explanation of the legislative process. Kristina Bas Hamilton is proof that “lobbying” need not be a dirty word and that there are good guys — and gals — out fighting the good fight for workers and progressive causes in our halls of power. Advocates everywhere should commend Kristina’s generosity in sharing 13 years of hard-won insider knowledge so others can win legislative victories without having to retain paid lobbyists such as herself. Her passion for equity and justice shines through every helpful page."

"Changemaker is an excellent resource for advocates seeking to improve their legislative chops. Easy to digest, it offers invaluable tips and actionable advice on how to build relationships and navigate a notoriously complex legislative process. I highly recommend it for novice and veteran advocates alike."

"Understanding how to navigate the legislative process is essential for those of us working for justice in California. The process is ripe with opportunities for impacted community members to become active leaders. Kristina Bas Hamilton strikes at the core of this activism with this amazing and powerful book. Every advocate, activist, or community member involved in policy efforts and campaigns should have this book in their toolkit."

"If I have learned anything in over 20 years in California politics, it may be that if you want to propel new voices and policies onto the stage, what actually works is to offer proactive, practical guidance that is at once cautionary and empowering in its revelations of institutional truths. It’s a tricky maneuver that Kristina Bas Hamilton executes with elegance and power. I can just as enthusiastically imagine having Changemaker translated into five languages for rank-and-file union members as passing it along to a Board Member seeking to develop a technical bill, as recommending it to future candidates trying to orient themselves to the Legislature as an institution."

"Thank goodness an advocate as effective as Kristina has taken the time to explain and demystify a complex and nuanced process. This insider’s guide will help progressive advocates accelerate their agendas in Sacramento."

"Kristina Bas Hamilton's Changemaker is a great step-by-step primer on what it takes to pass legislation in California. I loved the "insider tips" that only an experienced lobbyist or advocate would know. I also really appreciated how Bas Hamilton summarizes the main takeaways in each section. I would recommend this book to both those new to Sacramento politics as well as veteran organizers and community leaders. Anyone who reads this book will gain new insights into what can often be a daunting and mysterious process. Thank you for this book that will help so many organizations like mine make positive change for our communities!"

"Changemaker: An Insider’s Guide to Getting Sh*t Done at the California Capitol captures Fem Dem’s mission to educate community members that anybody can be an advocate. The Dos and Don’ts in this book is valuable information on how to further visionary policies through the Legislature and on the Governor’s desk."

"Kristina Bas Hamilton is a certified changemaker and progressive leader, and her years of successful organizing and fighting to improve California demonstrate why anyone who wants to make a difference in Sacramento should read her words of advice. In this book, Kristina puts a masterclass on paper with a full guide of how to pass policy from start to finish and everything you need to know in between. By breaking down the complex and often hidden processes that take place in California's Capitol, Kristina perfectly shines a light on how advocates can be successful in getting their policy enacted into law."

"Over a decade of wisdom is captured within these pages. Kristina is changing the game for California progressive advocates! A must-read."