Hi John,

Before Women’s History Month ends, I wanted to reach out.

Our campaign made history last November in more ways than one, and I am forever honored that you elected me to become Maryland’s first South Asian woman Lieutenant Governor. I would not be here today without the hard work and sacrifice of so many women who came before me.

Two of those women are my Grandma Sasha and my mom, Hema: my first loves.

My mother and Wes’ mother, Joy, are two immigrant mothers who did everything in their power to give their children the promise of a fulfilling life. Because of them, we are here today fighting for the rights and wellbeing of women across Maryland.

When I was seven years old, my family moved from India to the United States, and since then, I’ve never stopped being excited for the promise of America. That’s why I dedicated myself to public service — to never stop fighting to make sure that promise is available to everyone.

I’m committed to using my platform as Maryland’s Lieutenant Governor to defend every woman’s reproductive rights, close the gender pay gap, and break down systemic barriers that prevent women and marginalized groups from achieving their full potential.

It is the greatest privilege of my life to serve beside Wes, an ally and advocate for women, passing policies and legislation to lift every woman up across this great state.

To the mothers, daughters, sisters, and friends who inspire us every day, we see you. We appreciate you. We celebrate you.

Happy Women’s History Month, and thank you for everything you do.

— Aruna