I have been a public servant and an entrepreneur for over 20 years.

The state is where it’s at – where policies that impact our education, careers, and life are made.

In 2018, we can make a change with over 20 potential new legislators elected across the state – new voices, innovative ideas – Let’s Do This!

Our platform is built on:

  1. Build A Life – Education, Careers/Job, Public Safety, and Thriving Communities
  2. Be A Bridge – Harness our diversity towards a stronger 5th District and an even greater America.

My very first memory is of my graduation from the Head Start preschool program for low-income children in Chicago. I proudly stood on stage, a great gap-toothed smile on my face and a gold paper crown on my head. My hair was in tight braids and I was wearing a scratchy polyester dress my mother had sewn on her used Singer sewing machine. At that moment, even though so many obstacles were in my way, I thought I could be anything I wanted…

Success in life requires access to education, to resources, and, most importantly, to systems that will support us in getting there. But in today’s America, too many hardworking residents are constantly faced with new taxes, don’t have access to quality healthcare, daycare, or elder care, can’t make ends meet, don’t feel safe.

Build a Life, Be A Bridge – this is why I am tossing my scarf into the ring for Illinois State Representative from the 5th District.

Build a Life: Education

high quality learning in schools  =  skilled adults ready for great jobs

As a graduate of Headstart preschool for low-income children, and a product of public schools, I know firsthand the importance of a high quality education. I have spent my entire career focusing on developing systems that give each of us the best opportunity to succeed in education – to be ready to succeed in career and life.

The 5th District is currently struggling with a dozen school issues – from rats to potential closings to poor teacher/principal development. We must live in a state that puts education first- and educators as legislators can help us do that.

I have been a teacher, an administrator, and a parent-  I understand how a complete education system works.

 

Build a Life: Jobs/ Careers – Economic Security

I believe a strong indicator of whether a community is thriving is to assess the potential of a child, young adult, and family in that environment. A child must have a parent who has a great job, a young adult must look forward to a sustainable financial future, and our elders must be able to prepare for a secure retriement.

Our district is a slice of America; it has some of the most prosperous areas of the city as well as areas that need revitalization. Working to ensure all residents are able to Build a Life and then protect the fruits of their labor – is possible.

 

Build a Life: Public Safety/Criminal Justice Reform

As an educator and a woman, I know what it looks like when a child is unsafe, when a woman or man is violated, and when communities are not secure. When my 22 year-old daughter leaves our home to go to work or play, I want her to be safe. When my 24 year-old son goes out with his friends, I want people to see him for the good man he is rather than the stereotype others have created of him.

The safety of our residents as our primary concern is largely dependent on the environment that exists within our communities. Communities need support from state agents, law enforcement officers and community leaders to confront the systemic roadblocks on individuals that create cycles of violence.

 

Build a Life: Thriving Communities

Our current State Representative is Juliana Stratton.  Representative Stratton has proposed and advocated for legislation that creates a stronger 5th District. As an educator, entrepreneur, and policy expert, I will continue this legacy and further develop legislation that ensures our communities in our District, and across the state, are thriving. We want to have individuals and families living, working, playing, earning and spending in our district!

 

Be A Bridge: Neighbors and Allies

Reverend Leslie Sanders says, “We may not be the same skin color, but you and I are the same kind.” In this diverse country, we should have each other’s back. But actually, some people, bolstered by our divisive President, are trying to keep us apart. They say I don’t belong, you are no good, and he is scary.  The silver lining in such a contentious environment is that we are stepping up and speaking up. We are fighting for the values of our great nation- pluralism, liberty, and justice. We know we are stronger when we knock on doors side-by-side, and speak truth to power – together.

I will build bridges between residents so together, we are allies towards a stronger community. As a Headstart kid from a low-income family who grew up to Build a Life with her husband, I fight to ensure every resident can live the American Promise. As a mother who raised three children who are now starting their own lives as adults and residents of their community, I will make sure every mother can rest at night knowing their child is safe. As a businesswoman who strives to keep her business successful and growing, I will work to ensure each of us with dreams has the opportunity to pursue them.

Sources for All Data Available Upon Request