RootsAction has provided me with a political home.
The excitement of progressives running for office serves as a beacon of hope for a better future, deeper democracy, healthier communities and thriving peaceful lives. In my 2021 campaign for mayor of Buffalo, our nation was all abuzz, as we believed we had finally cracked the glass ceiling by electing a progressive to be the first woman mayor in Buffalo, but the establishment on both sides of the aisle made certain that was not going to happen. Despite the devastating loss in 2021, I decided to seek a city council seat this year. Running for office twice in two years is quite a challenge especially for a single, working-class mother. Taking on the machine takes courage – it also comes with consequences. The reality of challenging the status quo is that when you are even remotely successful you are perceived as a perpetual threat. With all the support, training, and encouragement I received, I was never prepared for the aftermath. I thought that I would lose gracefully and return to life as normal. What I didn't know was that there are some doors that once opened cannot be closed. In my community, passersby wish me well in the grocery store or when they see me at the coffee shop. They often say things like “I hope you run again, we need you,” and even the most unlikely of allies whisper “I voted for you” from behind their desks in City Hall. Those are the interactions I hold near my heart to keep me working toward justice wherever I am called on to do so. The harsh reality I faced was that I had failed to prepare for the possibility of defeat. Even with an in-demand credential like being a Registered Nurse, the job market for a rabble rouser is rather narrow. Joining RootsAction has provided me with the opportunity to unapologetically champion economic, social and racial justice, and it has provided me with a solid foundation where my efforts are deeply rooted in my core values. That is why I’m asking you to support the work of RootsAction today. RootsAction has provided me with a political home where I can further my mission of increasing civic engagement locally, add capacity to the antiwar movement, and work on campaigns such as canceling student debt. Will you click here and chip in so that we can continue this important work? | 
