Get Involved, Volunteer, Do Not Despair

Goleta voted for slow, carefully managed growth that makes sure future development doesn’t further erode our quality of life or the key services and resources we all expect, such as water, public safety, libraries, and road capacity — sensible ideas that harm no one, ideas that feel much at variance from those expressed in the national election. I am very humbled by the responsibility that has been vested in me and touched by my supporters who contributed their time, hard work, and financial support to my campaign for Goleta City Council.

My decision to enter the race was very difficult for me personally. Having never run for office, campaigning seemed like facing a very long and public job interview process, which was not appealing at all. It meant a great deal of soul-searching, and importantly, it required me to push through an incredible amount of fear and self-doubt — a leap of faith. Although I assumed there would be help, I completely underestimated the amount of support that materialized, and it is no exaggeration to say that I could not have gotten here without it.

I have stood up to do something difficult and personally challenging for the betterment of our city. For the sake of Goleta and our surrounding communities, I ask you to consider doing the same. We need and deserve an involved citizenry.

I want to share an important message I received in an email this week from a role model of mine: “Our constitutional democracy demands our participation, not just every four years, but all the time. So let’s do all we can to keep advancing the causes and values we all hold dear: making our economy work for everyone, not just those at the top; protecting our country and protecting our planet; and breaking down all the barriers that hold anyone back from achieving their dreams.”

This national election has provoked deep feelings of anger, fear, and hopelessness in many of us. I ask you to resist these feelings and find ways to counteract the hopelessness. I ask you to find ways to take action locally that will counteract the negativity and despair.

Here are a few things that you might consider doing:

Educate yourself about issues affecting your neighbors and our community.

Attend hearings and city meetings and express your opinions.

Volunteer your time for a nonprofit or community organization.

Get involved in a political cause.

Find other like-minded people to connect with.

Be patient with and listen to those who may have different views.

Resist the urge to withdraw or disconnect.

Reach out to neighbors and loved ones.

A well-functioning community is based on active participation and involvement of an informed electorate. I understand that there are many obstacles that prevent us from becoming more engaged. Finding the time to be more involved may feel like a luxury. All of us are torn by multiple commitments and responsibilities. However, I ask you to persevere against these challenges.