Welcome to our Historic Firsts series, where historic first lawmakers will tell us how their identities have informed their work in local and state politics — and why it matters to us all.

John,

We’re seeing it every day — state legislatures are growing more powerful. Abortion access, trans rights, voting rights, fair conditions for working people and families — these policies are increasingly coming from our states rather than Washington. Fortunately, we bucked historical trends in 2022 and built significant power in our states. Now is the perfect time to tell resonant, meaningful stories about the power and promise of progressive state leaders.

We’ve teamed up with Teen Vogue to spotlight inspiring, historic firsts among state legislators — amplifying the voices of women, people of color, young folks, LGBTQIA+ folks, and folks from non-traditional backgrounds.

Our brand-new monthly series, Historic Firsts, will focus on how increasing representation in our state chambers results in legislative agendas and policy outcomes that better reflect the rich experiences, interests, and priorities of the communities in our states.

John, our first piece just dropped, featuring our brilliant alum Representative Lorena Austin, the first Chicanx gender-nonconforming state legislator in the country — and what she said was powerful. Here’s an excerpt:

TV: As you know, it’s a really hard time to be an LGBTQ+ person in public right now, let alone in politics. Has it been a challenge to feel like your new position is as ready for you as you are for it? LA: [...] If you had told someone that a brown queer person was going to win a state race in Mesa, I don't think a lot of people would have believed you. I think that's a testament to what people are looking for now. They're not looking for these polished politicians that went to Ivy League schools and are attorneys. I really wanted to redefine what a politician looks like, because I think it should be someone from your community that can relate and knows what's going on.

Read (and share!) Lorena’s full interview with Teen Vogue by clicking here.

Read and Share »

When we lift up our voices and stories together, we have the power to push for the future we all deserve and inspire voters and the next generation to get excited about states and state leaders. That’s the core of our work at Sister District — and that’s why we’re highlighting the stories of bold, historic first legislators like Lorena in Arizona and others across the country.

Thank you for reading, and stay tuned for more next month!

Gaby Goldstein, Co-Founder
Sister District

Before you go… Sister District’s mission is to imagine, build, and expand progressive power in state legislatures, and we know that organizing around elections is just one piece of the puzzle. That’s why we’re amplifying the voices of local lawmakers, educating the public about the importance of state leaders and policies, and inspiring folks to deepen their civic engagement — especially locally and down-ballot. There is power in storytelling, and the more people we bring into this fight, the more powerful our movement will become. But we can’t do this alone. Can you make a contribution of $15 to fuel this important work? Donate »

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