I'm running to represent California in the U.S. Senate, John, but I wouldn't be where I am today without one of the most important and influential people in my life – Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm.

When I first had the privilege of meeting Shirley Chisholm, I was in college. At the time, I was president of the Black Student Union, and I had the honor of inviting her to address our group. After listening to her speak that day, I knew that she was the kind of person I wanted to follow.

Yes, Shirley Chisholm was our nation's first Black congresswoman – but she was so much more than that. She was an educator. She was pro-choice all the way. She was against the Vietnam War. She talked about coalition building. She was an unbelievable candidate – and I never knew a congressperson could fight so passionately for the things that mattered to me.

Hearing her speak that day changed the trajectory of my life. She told me that I could get more done by working from inside the system. So I followed her advice – I registered to vote and signed up to work on Congresswoman Chisholm's historic presidential campaign, and had the honor of being mentored by her over the years. 

John, I would not be Congresswoman Barbara Lee without Congresswoman Shirley Anita Chisholm. Few people have opened more doors for women, African Americans and other people of color. And without Shirley Chisholm, we would not even think it possible for a Black woman to serve as vice president. Nor would we have elected our first African American president.

Now, I'm running as the most progressive and experienced candidate in this competitive Senate race (and the only African American woman, too) – and I'm statistically TIED in second place. So I have to ask:

Please, can you chip in $5 or more to my campaign now so I can honor Shirley Chisholm by shattering the glass ceiling and become California's next senator?

Thank you for listening to my story.

Barbara Lee