January 28, 2024
"Friends, family, esteemed colleagues and members of the Sonoma County Community, I stand before you deeply honored and profoundly humbled to assume the responsibilities of Commissioner on the Sonoma County Commission on Human Rights for District 1.
I extend my deepest gratitude to the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors for entrusting me with this role and to the advocates, allies, and communities whose unwavering commitment to justice and equity, continues to guide and inspire my work.
As I take on this important responsibility, I’d like to make it clear that this honor is not simply an opportunity; it is a solemn call to serve—a duty to ensure that the fundamental principles of dignity, fairness, and human rights are not seen as ideals alone, but as lived realities for all who call Sonoma County home.
As I reflect on the recent presidential inauguration, I am reminded of the ever-evolving landscape of our nation’s leadership. Today, it is clearer to me than ever that the work before us is both urgent and essential, for justice is not self-executing—it demands vigilance, courage, and action. And because the path to progress and true equality is not linear, it also demands persistent dedication despite the obstacles, challenges, and even opponents thrown in our way.
Throughout my career, I have been guided by an unshakable belief that every human being—every American, and every global citizen—deserves to live free from discrimination and be empowered to reach their full potential. Human Rights are inalienable. Human Rights are for everyone.
My journey has been one of breaking barriers and advocating for equal rights and inclusive economic opportunities across the nation.
With each step, I have learned that progress is never achieved in isolation. Instead, it is forged through collective action, through communities standing together, and through institutions that choose justice over complacency.
It is especially meaningful to me that my nomination to this commission was confirmed unanimously by the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors on December 10, 2024—International Human Rights Day. Coincidence? I think not. On that day in 1948, the United Nations adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, a document that remains one of humanity’s greatest moral compasses.
In honor of this legacy, I chose to be sworn in with my hand rested upon it this evening.
Today, I pledge to uphold and defend the rights of those whose voices have too often been silenced. Whether it is advocating for the unhoused, protecting the dignity of immigrants and refugees, championing the rights of women and LGBTQIA2S+ people, advocating for those with physical, emotional, and mental health challenges, or confronting systemic inequities that persist within our institutions, I will serve with unwavering resolve, guided by the principles of justice, inclusion, and fundamental human dignity.
I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge the profound impact that the U.S. Institute of Diplomacy and Human Rights (USIDHR) and the United Nations Association have had on my journey. As a 2021 graduate of USIDHR, I am deeply grateful for the knowledge, training, and inspiration I received under the leadership of my friend and colleague, Dr. Isabelle Vladoiu, USIDHR’s Founder. The lessons I learned there continue to shape my approach to human rights advocacy, and so I carry them with me into this new role.
I’d also like to express thanks to my colleagues and fellow members of the United Nations Association, particularly the Sonoma/ Napa County Chapter for joining me today. Thank you for giving me the privilege to serve as your Board President.
My work, like that of so many others, has been strengthened by institutions that empower individuals to become agents of change, and for that, I extend my sincerest gratitude.
However, no single Commissioner—in-fact, no single Commission—can achieve these goals alone. It is only through our shared commitment—our collective courage—that we will advance the cause of human rights in Sonoma County and beyond.
As I have repeated several times this evening, I am deeply grateful for the trust placed in me, and so I look forward to working alongside my fellow Commissioners, Commission staff, community leaders, organizations, and every person, including those of you here today or watching this Livestream from home.
In closing, let today be a reaffirmation of our duty to each other, a renewed promise that we will not waver in the face of injustice, nor will we be silent in moments that demand action.
And in the words of Eleanor Roosevelt, the 32nd First Lady of the United States and the Chief Architect of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights:
“Where, after all, do universal human rights begin? In small places, close to home.”
Thank you.




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