John, today I'm thinking about my dad, and I'd like to share a story with you. 

Garvin A. Tutt served as a lieutenant colonel in World War II (in the all-black 92nd battalion supporting the Normandy invasion) and in the Korean War. My father was a proud military man, and when I think of him, I immediately picture him in his uniform.

He was eventually stationed in Japan, where he met my stepmother, Reiko, who treated my sisters and me like daughters and taught us—three young girls who were raised in El Paso, Texas, and the San Fernando Valley in Los Angeles, California—so much about Japan and Japanese culture. He served 25 years in the US Army and retired from the Presidio of San Francisco as head of the communications center.

This Father’s Day, I'm thinking of this remarkable, brilliant, loving and kind man who, in spite of racism and segregation, was a proud veteran and a proud American who loved and served both his country and his family.

John, I wouldn't be where I am today – one of the highest-ranking Black women in Congress – without the lessons my parents taught me. 

In a way, my run for Senate is all about honoring my parents and all that they sacrificed for me. I hope you'll consider joining my team to honor them as well. If you're ready to join, any amount that you can chip in to my campaign would be immensely appreciated.

Thank you for taking the time to read my dad's story, John.

– Barbara