Hey John, it’s Nida Allam. I know you’re busy today with the Election, but I wanted to reflect on the last year. It would mean the world to me for you to take a minute to read this.

Before I do, I need to ask the most important question I’ve ever asked you, John: have you voted yet? Find your polling place here >> https://www.vote.org/polling-place-locator/

John, a year ago today, surrounded by friends, family, and supporters, I started one of the most unpredictable journeys of my life: I announced my campaign for House. I had been told I was too young, that I needed to wait my turn, but I knew it was time NC had a fighter in Congress.

I never planned to enter politics, but everything changed in 2015 when my friends Deah, Yusor & Razan were murdered. As our community grieved, I watched as officials and the media refuse to recognize what was so clear to us: that their deaths were an Islamophobic hate crime.

I learned quickly that no one is waiting in the wings to advocate for us. Other people will write our stories for us if we don’t speak up. I got politically involved, throwing myself into organizing, to speak for those of us who have so often struggled to make our voices heard.

In the end, though, our hard work wasn't enough to overcome millions of dollars of outside spending from Super PACs. And in the end, despite bringing the full weight of the political establishment against us & outspending us roughly 4:1, our opponent won by less than 10%.

Losing isn't easy, but I picked myself up, dusted myself off, and made some decisions: first, I knew that I wasn't going away. Second, I knew that I wanted to make sure that the next young progressive to run for office here in NC wouldn't face the same struggles that I did. That's why I built Brighter Future PAC, to make the path a little easier for whoever comes behind me.

I don't know what's next for me yet. Right now, I'm focused on raising my daughter and on my role as a County Commissioner. But I know that even if my name isn't on the ballot, I have networks and resources that can help others stand up and advocate for working families.

I know that together, whatever happens tonight, we can all come together and keep working for a brighter future.

Thank you,

Nida Allam