The federal government is still shut down — we’re on Day 25 and counting, y’all.

My Republican colleagues are still out of town, refusing to re-open the government and continuing their campaign of hurt and harm, but I’m still working in Washington. Still ready to reopen the government. And, as always, listening to the folks in the Massachusetts 7th who are telling me about what’s weighing on them right now.

I want to share some of their stories with you today, because they make clear why we must stay strong in this fight:

Rep. Pressley,

I'm your constituent from Somerville and a furloughed federal employee. I strongly urge you to support a government funding deal that protects congressionally approved funding levels from being withheld by the administration. The administration has already used unprecedented tactics to withhold funds until they expire, which completely undermines the constitutional authority of Congress to set and approve spending levels. As a federal employee, I want to get back to work.

Dear Congresswoman Pressley,

The budget cuts that Republicans are proposing would be devastating for so many people I know. I'm especially concerned for my father-in-law, who served in the Coast Guard and is now suffering from dementia. The medical cuts that he could experience would create many hardships for him in getting the care he needs. I wanted to take a minute to thank you for standing up to President Trump and the Republicans to fight for all of us. Please continue to stand strong. We are depending on you.

Hello,

I'm writing to express my concern regarding the government shutdown and Republicans current budget bill that would impact my ability as a trans person on federal employee program insurance from receiving life-saving health care. Please fight for us and help ensure we can continue to receive health care.

I’m so grateful to our community for sharing their stories — but of course, I so wish they never had to.

They shouldn’t have to be furloughed, they shouldn’t have to worry about a loved one getting the health care they need, and they shouldn’t face the threat of losing life-saving care because of who they are — no one should.

But by making sure we hear their stories, they are helping build a future where others won’t be forced to experience their pain too. They are shining a light on the real-world impacts of Trump and Republicans’ government shutdown. And if we all keep lifting up their stories, and the stories of others who are in harm’s way, we can make others see — most importantly, feel — why this work matters.

Never doubt the power of your voice and question whether or not your Congresswoman sees your messages, because I do see them. I actively seek them out, and they directly inform my advocacy on your behalf. They matter.

I will fight for everyone in my district and across the country who’s getting hurt by Republicans’ cruel political games right now.

Movement family, you make this fight possible — thank you. If it makes sense for you right now, you can pitch in a donation to help power our campaign and strengthen our community as we hold the line for health care and demand a just end to this shutdown.

In solidarity,

Ayanna