Dear Team Nika,

Last Tuesday, the final night of the 191st Session, went to 4:30 AM!  On Wednesday, around noon, I was sworn in virtually to the 192nd MA Session as the sounds of violent insurrection erupted in the background. My heart and passion are with the Members and staff of the Capitol who endured the terror.  I am especially heartbroken for the people of color who have experienced such trauma generationally, and for the loved ones of those lost and injured as they protected Congress.  I'm so grateful for the courage of Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley, our whole MA delegation, and others who are demanding redress and accountability. 
 
As you may know, I had an accident on October 4th which has prevented me from many normal activities - reading, writing, and texting to name only a few.  Recovery has been slow but sure. I’m a couple of months away from full recovery.  I’ll have to continue to take my time with things.  Please know I miss communicating with you, and I am looking forward to fully engaging soon.
 
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to serve you for a second term.  The first term was crazy long.  However, it ended with the passing of my first stand-alone legislation (Flag and Seal Commission with Rep Sabadosa) and many awesome amendments and earmarks like new money for youth jobs and Main Streets and funds for J.P./Mission Hill E-line and Roslindale Village Commuter Rail improvements. 
 
I’m proud of my MA House and Senate colleagues, including staff, and our partners at City Hall for the ways we're shifting the Commonwealth's legislative landscape toward justice, especially in Small Business, Climate, Education, Elder Affairs, Gender Justice, Public Health and Housing.  For example, I’m stoked we passed Tenant Opportunity to Purchase and Boston’s Home Rule petition updating inclusionary development policy, along with a number of other affordable housing victories.  We’re progressing in other areas too, like Transit, Criminal Justice Reform, Anti-Racism and Indigenous Justice.
 
I look forward to updating you more fully on the whole Session, including our legislative and district work.  I'll be sending a newsletter out in the upcoming weeks.  
 
The time I've taken to heal has taught me much about slowing down and being there for one another.  The start of 2021 attended great electoral victories, but in many ways this year has begun with as much challenge as 2020.  Together we’ll get there!  Though it’s been hard, you've persevered.  You are my evidence that change is here.  Good change takes time to manifest.  Thank you for sharing your strength with me.  As we are faithful to justice, justice will continue to show up for us!
 
Yours in Service,
Rep Nika