Press Release

Representative Ami Bera, M.D. (CA-06) today announced that his guest to President Biden’s State of the Union address on Tuesday, February 7 will be his constituent, Mervin Brookins, a former felon and founder of Brother 2 Brother Mentoring based in Del Paso Heights.

“I am thrilled to welcome Mervin Brookins as my guest for the upcoming State of the Union address,” said Representative Ami Bera. “Merv’s life story is one of perseverance, redemption, and hope. After making a series of poor decisions in his youth which lead to serving 21 years in prison, Merv has since committed his life to being a positive influence and role model for young people in Sacramento. Through his Brother 2 Brother Mentoring program, Merv has brought together our community to stop violence and build stronger bonds between police and the communities they serve. Merv’s journey is a testament to making the most of second chances, and I am proud to have him by my side for the President’s State of the Union address.”

Born and raised in Sacramento, CA, Mervin Brookins was a standout football player at Grant High School and Sacramento City College. After a brief semester at Southern Oregon State University, Brookins spent 21 years in prison after a series of poor decisions in his youth. Upon returning home, Mervin committed his life to being a positive influence and role model in his community.

Brookins founded Brother 2 Brother Mentoring, a non-profit organization which inspires and empowers at-risk Sacramento-area youth and provides gang intervention and prevention. He worked with the District Attorney’s Office to establish an alternative sentencing program and partnered with the Sacramento Police Department to build better community and police relations. Brookins founded Grant Youth Sports which provides year-round athletic competition in football, baseball, and softball for youth ages 5-14. He has sat on several public safety panels and has received numerous awards, including the Sacramento District Attorney’s Beacon of Hope and Peacemaker Award.

To schedule an interview with Representative Bera and Mervin Brookins, please contact Travis Horne, Communications Director, at travis.horne@mail.house.gov