The representation of New American and BIPOC women in political leadership positions is essential in creating a just, equitable, and inclusive democracy. Their voices and experiences bring a unique perspective that is often underrepresented in decision-making processes. At New American Leaders, we recognize the importance of empowering these women and providing them with the training and resources they need to successfully run for office, win, and lead.

That's why we’re excited to be bringing our Ready to Lead: National Women's Training to Phoenix, Arizona on March 24-26! Join us—or tell someone you know who would be a good candidate for the training to join us—in Phoenix and be a part of a dynamic and supportive community of women leaders. Apply now by the February 20th priority application deadline to take the first step in your leadership journey and make a real impact in your community (and be sure to attend our info session on Monday, February 13th at 8 p.m. EST/6 p.m. MST to learn more about the training). Together, we can create a more inclusive and equitable world where everyone's voice is heard and their potential realized!

Earlier this week, President Joe Biden delivered his second State of the Union address. In it, he outlined how he and his administration are showing up for our communities by finding real solutions to fight inflation, increase access to quality affordable health care, and rebuild our nation’s infrastructure to ensure every person has access to the resources they need to thrive. But we also know that the changes our communities need go beyond what a president can do alone.

“They start at the state and local level, with leaders like Anupam Chugh Sidhu, a member of the Plymouth-Canton Community School Board in Michigan, who used her experiences as a teacher, mom, and as the first South Asian on the school board to create a safe, inclusive plan to bring students back into the classroom during the COVID-19 pandemic. It looks like Ola Albayati and Caren Royce Yap, two immigrant leaders who spoke out to provide a youth response to the State of the Union through the Young People Address the Nation State of the Union response, encouraging other young people to make their voices heard. At the state level, it looks like Florida State Assemblymember Anna Eskamani fighting against bills that discriminate against LGBTQ+ individuals; like Colorado State Representative Naquetta Ricks working to protect the rights and dignity of immigrants by fighting against the private prison system. Federally, it looks like Yadira Caraveo, the first Latina to represent Colorado in Congress, changing the face of leadership and bringing a New American perspective to crucial national fights.”

For more, read our full statement on President Biden’s State of the Union address, as well as the most recent edition of the Up and Up newsletter that features our alum and former Communications team intern Caren Royce Yap.

Our CEO and President Ghida Dagher was recently on two podcasts, the Pro Politics Podcast with Zac McCrary and the Electablog podcast! Check them out to learn more about Ghida’s journey as an immigrant and refugee and how we’re finding and training the next generation of New American leaders.

This Black History Month, we’re paying homage to the trailblazers who are shaking up politics and leading the movement for an inclusive democracy—many of whom happen to be NAL alums (NALpistas)! Check out our first two Black History Month spotlights on two NALpista leaders in New York and Georgia, New York City Councilmember Amanda Farías and Georgia State Representative Segun Adeyina.