We’re just a month into the campaign and we’ve been busy meeting with elected officials and community organizers, getting ready to knock on doors, and meeting our neighbors. Now it's official: I have pulled my nomination papers and am ready to hit the doors. When I ran in 2022 we collected over 500 certified signatures. Can we beat our record?
I had the pleasure of attending two events hosted by Medford’s Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: a celebration of the Lunar New Year at the beautiful new library, and a celebration of Black History Month at City Hall. Additionally, the Muslim communities of Medford and Malden joined me for Ummah, our first fundraiser of the year. I was moved to tears listening to community members share how my advocacy has made a positive impact in their lives and the outpouring of loving support meant the world to me. We were able to raise almost $9,000!
Moments like these remind me of why I’m running: to celebrate and honor all of the lived experiences of those who call this district home and to be a leader people see themselves reflected in.
It’s the joy that comes with holding space for each other, whether in the form of the dragon dance, Gospel music, or the musings of Langston Hughes. This connection we feel when we’re able to meet each other where we are is what demonstrates a genuine dedication to lifting each other up. It reminds all of us who are at the margins that it is possible to celebrate our successes and stand in our strength, not just our grief and trauma.
In the spirit of togetherness, we’re excited to be hosting our first Meet and Greet this Thursday in Medford from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM. Bring your questions and stick around for dinner and conversation, or just drop in to sign. To protect the privacy of our host, we’ll be sending out the address to those who RSVP.
Finally, to quote Frances N. Nwajei, Medford’s Diversity Officer, “If they’re talking about you, you’re doing something right.” It’s no secret that this will be a hard-fought race, but I think we’re doing something right so far - waking up and choosing joy.
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