Later His tragic death Sunday, the world remembers Rob Reener as an artistic force – and he was one, as an unforgettable presence in sitcoms aveveed 1970s, later as a director of beloved films. I knew him differently: As a failed thinker who turned his own life into a bold public policy, repurposing what California understands and invests in and invests in young children.
Again and again she conceived and led the successful campaign in 1998 for California’s Proposition 10, a tobacco tax to raise money for early childhood health and education. It established the Green Commission and 58 County Commissions charged with investing in health care, parental support, early education and other services for children from 5 categories.
At the time this was a major public responsibility – to put the early years of life at the center of social policy.
Universor did not come to this task. He immersed himself in the science of early brain development and the evidence showing how the experiences of the first five years have lifelong consequences. He demonstrated, clearly and convincingly, that investing was not charity but a proven way to reduce crime, reduce poverty and reduce communities.
I saw his commitment up close when I was in the top 5 establishment of Alameda County, one of the 10 County Commissions created. Universa never gives hard parts. He demonstrated, listened carefully, asked difficult questions and helped solve problems. He led with precision and clarity, refusing to let bureaucratic inertia define the boundaries of what happened. He knew that public policy, like storytelling, requires thought, discipline and persistence.
As the founding chairman of the 5th California primary, which was created by Prop 10, the birth extended his leadership far from the campaign. Mbuso traveled, joined community leaders, teachers, health professionals and families. He was very committed to making a testimony with the knowledge of the testimony, not a picture showing a picture. Regardless of whether it was in Sacramento or rural rural towns, he insisted on understanding the data and the human stories behind the work. He seemed to find real joy in spending time with children whose lives were improved.
Reiner also carried with him the installation of his childhood. Growing up in the shadow of his famous father, actor and writer Rener of carlhe talked literally about feeling misunderstood and spiritually uncertain as a boy — emotions he would back down in the drama “I’m me.” That devastating scene, where the young man doesn’t like his father, comes from Rob Rener’s eternal nature as a child.
Instead of succumbing to bitterness, he used that emotional understanding to carry out his advocacy for families and young children. This work was not an unpleasant one for him; It was his.
First 5 in California have generated more than $11 billion for programs that expand access to preschool, improve early teacher training and compensation, improve mental health care, and provide comprehensive support for struggling families. The first 5 agencies have structures adapted to local needs, creating programs that reflect the diversity and complexity of all communities.
Coexistence was not a particular hollywood thing in clothing (in fact, sweatpants and T-shirts were his favorite). He sat in on many Commission meetings, gave advice, and kept things moving. When negotiations were suspended, he did not wait, he would move, and if Robert’s rules of order allowed it, he might have been added too.
He is also taken for granted among policy experts and elected officials, and his respect for people who work directly with children has never worked. He ran a family daycare provider in West Oakland with the same personality as a state attorney. His commitment to moderation has earned him frequent hearings on news panels and public forums where early childhood policy is discussed.
His vision was not small. It was based on the belief that supporting children early is one of the most effective ways to strengthen society. His work has revitalized California policy and inspired advocates across the country to elevate early childhood as a priority.
Reinar’s legacy reaches far beyond Hollywood – into classrooms, clinics, homes and playgrounds across California and countless children have started life because he refused to look away.
Mark Friedman is the chief executive officer of the Eden Health District. He was an early major in 5 Alamemera County and President of the first 5 California association.
