As the eldest daughter of immigrant parents I learned the meaning of hard work early. Not because it was expected of me, but because in our family hard work and service were simply how we lived.

When I around 2 years old my parents noticed that I wasn’t responding as much when they called my name. Turns out that my hearing was steadily going down and communication would look different for me. But my parents never taught me to see disability as a limit on what I could do. They taught me that no matter my race, gender, or disability I would always have something to give. Something to contribute. Some way to serve.

In the early 90s I immigrated with my family to Virginia while my parents were working on their graduate degrees, and then the American’s with Disabilities Act (ADA) was passed. The goal was always to go back to their countries with family, friends, and the life they built. But now being part of the ADA generation they knew they had to stay so I could pursue the American dream.

My entire life has been shaped by their sacrifice. In college I was able to connect with other Black future leaders who committed to service, community, and joy. In grad school I connected with Deaf future leaders who committed to service, advocacy, culture. As a Black Deaf woman I am proud that service is deep in my bones. And yes, becoming a commissioner would carry historic significance as the first Black Deaf person in elected office in Washington, DC - and the United States. But I’m not running to make history, I’m running to serve.

For me becoming a commissioner is about finding a way to serve my neighborhood.