I am so proud to have joined the hundreds of thousands of women at the Women’s March in Washington, DC. I traveled to DC because I strongly believe in the American right of peaceful protest and to help stand up for the causes I believe in: engagement in government with civic education and clarity; fighting climate change and its effects; embracing difference and diversity; turning away from hate. Standing in a large group of passionate women with their heads held high, ready to fight for the causes and rights they believe in was an incredible experience. It also reaffirmed my desire to stand for causes and legislation that will better our city, our state, and our country. I believe that it is my responsibility as a citizen and as a City Councilor to take action and I intend to do so. To do this, I need your help.
Change occurs when everyday people are engaged at all levels of government and I will continue my efforts to make our local government more accessible and open. Walking the streets of DC with engaged women, educated on issues and causes that they care about was so invigorating. I want this feeling for everyone. Engagement can and should start at the local level and it’s my duty to help this happen through increased transparency and increased civic education. How is government confusing for you or not working for you? These are the questions I want to start answering and clearing up.
Getting to know each other and listening to each other’s fears and worries and hopes will help us understand each other and help us grow. Start with the City Council. We work for you; we want to make Newport as good as it can be.