I came to college looking for a community and a career path. I was undecided about my major, not having found my true passion yet, and trying to find a place to call my own in this new city and campus. Although high school classmates were attending UCF alongside me, I sought to meet new people who shared the same passion for politics as I do. I soon met that group through political activism and clubs on campus, but I wanted to extend my reach past the college town I was now living in.
As of a couple years ago, I knew that I wanted to pursue politics by volunteering with activist groups. But I didn’t know whether I wanted to major in Political Science or follow my other passion for writing in the advertising and public relations field. I eventually chose to major in advertising and PR with a minor in Political Science, combining both those passions.
A friend of mine mentioned a few community events he would be attending in Orlando, one of those being Anna’s election kickoff in 2019. I spent the Friday night before the event researching Anna’s policies to see where I stood. Each policy I read made me smile because I resonated with each one.
Anna started shifting from a local Orlando politician to a brave, empowered woman promoting justice for all in one of the state’s largest cities. I began attending more community events and ran into Anna at almost every one. Whether it was a rallying cry for climate change or a march against gun violence, she was there.
I eventually found my community in March For Our Lives, a gun violence prevention organization that stemmed from a tragedy close to my heart and my home. As I became more involved, I noticed how Anna constantly supported us. Her policies in domestic violence in relation to firearms and dedication to memorializing Pulse Nightclub exemplified her strength in fighting for and honoring gun violence victims.
Additionally, the March team was hard at work planning a trip to Tallahassee to present our Peace Plan document, which outlined gun violence prevention and mental health policies. Anna stood right alongside us at the event, calling for politicians in the Florida legislature to enact safer gun laws.
Anna’s work has shown through in many areas, not just in the issue of gun violence. She has successfully advocated for women’s reproductive rights, education, and climate change, which are all issues that mean a lot to me. She is a champion that I am incredibly glad to have met and to see representing us in Orlando.
Getting involved with Anna’s campaign has been incredibly valuable for my personal growth and college transition. By volunteering for her campaign, attending events, and even writing this piece, I better connected with Anna and can share my pride for her and her work.