A Super No. 1 Immigrant Daughter, in Congress
My friend Rashida Tlaib, the fierce Congresswoman for Michigan’s 13th district, is a case study in being a No. 1 Immigrant Daughter. Here are her generous answers to Three Questions On Being No.1.
1) Name a burden and a blessing that comes with being a No. 1 Immigrant Daughter?
Being the eldest of 14 in an immigrant family probably best prepared me for public office. I have the heart of a social worker, and I am someone who jumps at the chance to help others. Many colleagues call me "Mama Bear," because of my protective nature. Although these characteristics can be and are blessings, it also weighs on me to be raised with a sense of duty and responsibility for others. That’s why I am in this work and fight, to ensure that we all center the value of responsibility for our neighbors and community.
2) When is a time you chose duty over desire, that you wish you could do over?
Not sure. I feel like it's all the time. Everyone comes before my needs – which can be exhausting physically and emotionally.
3) What does the No. 1 Immigrant Daughter in you take to a deserted island?
I would take a mirror to a deserted island. Being a daughter of immigrants, especially in the US Congress, comes with feeling unseen in spaces that are not used to someone like me. Our experiences are valid, our backgrounds are valid, and we are valid.
We’ll share more like this soon. Let me know if there’s anyone you want to hear from.