Rashida Tlaib is a well-known progressive warrior and, in her own words, “a mother working for justice for all.” Her two young sons are at the root of her unwavering passion to help change lives for the better. She is the oldest of 14 children, born and raised in Detroit, the proud daughter of Palestinian immigrant parents.
Rashida made history in 2008 by becoming the first Muslim woman to ever serve in the Michigan Legislature. She is beloved by residents for the transformative constituent services she provided, and for successfully fighting the billionaires and corporations that tried to pollute her district. When families get to know Rashida, they have no doubt that she will work tirelessly to knock down barriers for real change, and whether by policy or action, she will roll up her sleeves to make sure her residents are cared for, no matter how big the challenge.
Corporations, particularly in Detroit, are profiting on the backs of our neighborhoods. We have seen major projects in the name of corporate interest, like the construction of a multi-million dollar entertainment complex, run rough shot over our neighborhoods and driving out long-time residents. Corporations have failed to live up to promises such as job training programs and opportunities. What’s worse, they're also receiving handouts in the form of tax credits that divert funds from our public schools. What we need instead is to bolster our education funds and champion community benefits programs that create meaningful, positive changes to host communities of major projects.