There are so many reasons I am giving to One America.  I would not be a State Senator if One America did not exist.  Founder Pramila Jayapal paved the way to show me that sometimes the best way to encourage others to run differently is to run in a way that values young people, new Americans, multilingualism, and centers their expertise and priorities in what you pursue as a legislator.  One America endorsed me in my 2016 appointment process, mobilized their base to get involved, and together we made the Washington Voting Rights law. 

I give because I am the the granddaughter and neice of resilient courageous immigrant women who took so many risks to create better opportunities for my dad and all of us who are second generation.  They worked in the fields, took care of others' children and elders, as well as their own, and cleaned homes.  They still live along the border, and continue to support more recent immigrants and more humane treatment. 

I give for my Tia Maugi, RIP, who was left on the other side of the border.  She also took risks, including sending my cousin Olga to come and live with us in Seattle when she was only 14 years old, and I was 8 years old. My cousin was torn from her family for a chance at a better education and economic opportunity.  My cousin took that opportunity, and started her career as a medical assistant serving individuals, including elders and veterans experiencing homelessness.  She is now one of the essential workers, taking risks as a nurse at Harborview, so my kids and I can stay home and stay safe. 

I give because I cannot imagine not giving to do my small part, when my ancestors and farmworkers, gas station workers, grocery workers, public servants, social workers, medical assistants, nurses, food bank workers, farmers, truck drivers, school teachers, public health workers, and so many have done so much, have taken couragous risks, and making sacrifices for all of us.