On September 25th, 2024, we witnessed a monumental moment. Governor Gavin Newsom signed AB 2317, Elijah’s Law, into law, making California the fifth state to adopt Elijah's Law this crucial legislation. Today, we stand on the shoulders of every parent, advocate,organization and law maker who believed in this fight, who believed in Elijah’s story. This is not just a law; it is a beacon of hope for the nearly 500,000 children in California living with food allergies, and a promise to protect them in childcare settings across the state.
Our son, Elijah-Alavi, was just three years old boy full of life, joy, and endless possibility. But on November 3rd, 2017, in a moment that should have never happened, he was fed food he was allergic by an educator ar NYC childcare center, and he was taken from us far too soon. That day shattered our world. But in the face of that unbearable pain, we made a decision. Elijah’s story would not end there. His life would not be defined by tragedy but by the change that followed. Because of all of you who stood with us, who refused to let this fight be in vain, that change is here.
Today, Elijah’s Law stands as a shield for every child, ensuring that no family will have to face the heartbreak we endured. It is a promise that no child will face life-threatening food allergies in a childcare setting without protection.
To Governor Gavin Newsom, we thank you for your leadership in signing this bill into law. To Assemblywoman Stephanie Nguyen, your steadfast commitment, your relentless advocacy, has made this day possible. You carried this bill across the finish line, and we are forever grateful for your dedication to protecting children in California.
To our incredible community of supporters,
We did this—together. Today, as we celebrate the signing of Elijah’s Law, we are filled with immense pride and gratitude. This moment belongs to all of us,the parents, advocates, lawmakers,
organizations, and every single person who stood with us, fought alongside us, and believed in this mission. Your tireless efforts, passion, and unwavering commitment made this possible. We turned heartbreak into hope, and now, countless children will be safer because of what we’ve achieved. This victory is shared by every voice that spoke up, every letter written, and every action taken in the name of protecting children with food allergies. You have helped make Elijah’s legacy one of safety, protection, and love for future generations.
To Louis and Joanna the Natalie Giorgi Sunshine Foundation, From our family to yours, we want to express our deepest gratitude for your support and shared commitment to this cause. The connection we share, born from profound loss, has fueled our determination to protect children with food allergies. Your strength, compassion, and dedication have been an incredible source of inspiration.
To the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA):Your advocacy and steadfast commitment to ensuring children with asthma and allergies have a voice have been invaluable. Your work in supporting policies like Elijah’s Law has made a critical difference in the lives of so many, and we are deeply grateful for your support.
To Kids With Food Allergies (KFA):Thank you for your tireless efforts to educate families and communities about food allergies. Your dedication to empowering parents and caregivers has made the world a safer place for children with food allergies, and we are so thankful for your unwavering partnership.
To Kaleo, makers of Auvi-Q:Your commitment to innovation and safety has saved countless lives. Thank you for being a part of this movement and for providing life-saving solutions for children like Elijah. Your support has been instrumental in getting us to this day.
To Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE):Your leadership and vision have been instrumental in raising awareness and advocating for stronger protections for children with food allergies. Thank you for your relentless efforts to ensure that families like ours have a voice and that Elijah’s Law became a reality in California.
To Asthma and Allergy Network:You have been a guiding light in our journey, offering invaluable support and advocacy at every turn. Your dedication to policy change and public health has helped pave the way for Elijah’s Law and countless other protections for children with food allergies.
To The Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Connection Team (FAACT):FAACT, your deep commitment to education and advocacy has empowered families and caregivers across the country. Your tireless work has helped build the foundation for lasting change, and for that, we are forever grateful.
Elijah’s Law is more than a piece of legislation. It’s not a moment; it's a movement. It’s the embodiment of hope, resilience, and justice for children everywhere. Countless lives will now be protected. His story, Our story, Your story is now part of something much larger, an unyielding fight for every child who faces the dangers of food allergies. But our work isn’t finished. This moment is a stepping stone, not the final destination. We will not stop until Elijah’s Law is the law of the land in every state, so that no child, anywhere, will be left unprotected.
Today, we honor Elijah’s legacy. We honor the families whose lives will be forever changed because of this law. And we honor each and every one of you—because you stood by us, believed in this cause, and helped make this day a reality.
Thank you for your love, your support, and your belief that we could turn grief into purpose. Elijah’s light shines on, not only in our hearts but in the lives of children who will now be safe.
If you would like to continue supporting our mission for food allergy awareness, education, research, and advocacy, please consider donating. Your contribution helps ensure that no child with food allergies is left unprotected.
To join the movement and learn how you can help bring Elijah’s Law to your state, visithttps://www.elijahalavifoundation.org/elijah-s-law-toolkit. Together, we can create a safer world for all children.
With all our love and gratitude,
Thomas Silvera
Ondina Hawthorne
Sebastin Silvera
Elijah-Alavi Silvera 👼🏽🩵🙏🏾
Comments