I bet we’ll be hearing a lot of this type of language when Virginia Del. Elizabeth Guzman delivers her response to Trump’s State of the Union address on Tuesday night. Buena suerte, Del. Guzman!
When I think about my life, when I came to this country, I regret not spending enough time with my child.
I’m originally from Peru. I came to this country looking for opportunities for my oldest daughter Pamela.
In order for me to qualify for an apartment, I had to have three jobs. About 105 hours a week. I was happy, but having three jobs, you miss out on raising your child.
My reality is still the reality of people who live in my district.
When I go and knock on doors on the weekends, and I don’t see parents at their home, and I ask their children, “Where are your parents?” And they tell me they are working on a Saturday afternoon, or a Sunday evening, I don’t think Americans should be working three jobs to support their families.
For me, increasing the minimum wage to a living wage is about family. It’s about having parents spend more time with their children. Because it is not right that parents have to choose between food and family.
I am running because my experiences have assured me that anyone who is willing to sacrifice and work hard will be able to achieve the American dream. I came to this country being the least educated person in my family. And today, I have two Masters degrees, and a successful career in public government. That’s what the American dream is about.
I want to go to Richmond to advocate and defend the American dream. To advocate for hard working class like me. And also make Virginia and more welcoming and inclusive place.
Sign up for the Blue Virginia weekly newsletter
