Why Run?

Like many things in life, this campaign is a marathon, not a sprint. Currently my top priority is to collect signatures for a petition to add my name to the ballot for District 1 City Council representative for Cedar Rapids. I've begun to ask my friends and neighbors for support and encouragement. My petition is 4.7% complete and with each signature, my enthusiasm grows. As I begin to stock the fire of my soft launch on 3/1/25, in a private group, I was asked an interesting question. "We have a fine city council. What is your motivation for running?" the person inquired. My top reason for running is to make the greatest positive impact possible. I can advocate for, donate to, volunteer for, and support animal welfare, empowering those experiencing homelessness, and environmental sustainability all I want, but without a platform, at most my efforts will support and encourage my peers. Collaborating with City Council members will give me a direct path to amplify the voices I have long advocated for and worked to empower. With a direct influence on budget and policy, there would be a fantastic opportunity to strive for a healthier community for all.

A secondary reason for running aside for being told for years to "run for local office if you really want to make a difference," is representation. Very quickly, you can see that gender balance of the current Cedar Rapids City Council is not representative of our community with only 25% being women. While my ethnicity will not add to the diversity of the council, many other personal identities will. I am queer women and follow an earth-based spiritual path. Dietary diversity is not commonly a consideration; however, I also believe that being a dedicated vegan for nearly 14 years speaks volumes to my willingness to my lifestyle choices in order to decrease environmental impact and improve animal welfare.

As you finish reading this article, hopefully the message you glean, is that I am an authentic, driven, passionate, empathetic, and persistent women. I would represent District 1 of Cedar Rapids with pride, ever focus on the overall health and strength of our community.

A stock image of a women running up rainbow painted, brick stairs, one of which reads "Wake Up."