John, I was born in El Paso, Texas during the height of segregation.

My mother's name was Mildred Parish. Throughout her entire life, she shattered racial barriers – first as one of 12 students to integrate Texas Western College, then again as the first Black clerical worker at Fort Bliss and countless other times throughout her life. She taught me that if I was refused a place at the table, I needed to make one for myself.

My father's name was Garvin Alexander Tutt. He served as a lieutenant colonel in WWII and the Korean War, at a time when many officers of color faced discrimination. He was kind, steadfast and loving.

My parents did everything they could to give me a better life, and it's because of them that I'm here today – on the cusp of becoming the third Black woman ever to serve in the U.S. Senate.

But I can only shatter that glass ceiling with your help, John. Experts are saying this will be the most expensive Senate primary in history, and right now I'm falling behind in fundraising. So please: 

Will you make a $5 grassroots donation now to help send me to the Senate so I can build a progressive future for all of us?

Thank you for all of your support,

Barbara Lee