Progressive women fight to prevent discrimination
The fight to defend civil rights and justice must be continued in the face of attacks by leaders
Across the country, women are running for public office in record numbers, from city councils to Congress.
We face an uphill battle. There’s little onthe-ground training and few resources. We are often told to wait our turn or step aside for someone else.
Despite that, we’ve chosen to run anyway to get things done for the communities we care about.
With the well-being of immigrant families, Dreamers and our very values under attack by the current administration, it’s more important than ever before to have progressive women at the table fighting back.
I’ve been honored to serve the people of Bernalillo County in New Mexico’s House District 13 since 2013.
I first ran for office because, as a 19th generation New Mexican, I’m proud of our state and I know that who we elect to shape the policies that impact our families matters.
As a representative I sponsored legislation to stop Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) from using local police as their personal immigration enforcers. It was never allowed up for a vote, but this year I succeeded in passing a legislative memorial to that effect.
More progressive Democratic women elected at every level of government means immigrant families, and in fact every family, has a better chance to succeed.
This fight to defend the civil rights of others and protect justice for every citizen is not a new one.
I’ve spent the last 40 years working to protect the rights of immigrants who are too often the targets of discrimination based on fear and ignorance.
Our immigration system is far from perfect.
The mere fact that President Trump has unilaterally separated hundreds of children from their parents at our southern borders and rescinded protections for Dreamers speaks to the need for comprehensive reforms.
That’s only possible when you have experienced leaders at the table using their education and skills to work together toward a smart and compassionate solution for our country.
I am running to resume my seat at that table as a representative in the New Mexico House and will be proud to again stand up for every family so we can achieve the progress our communities are waiting for.