Lateefah Simon, a congressional candidate for California’s 12th District, defies expectations at every turn. Despite being born legally blind, Simon has never let her disability hinder her ambitions.
With a Bachelor’s degree in Public Policy and a Master of Public Administration degree from the University of San Francisco, Simon is highly qualified for the job. Her educational background speaks volumes about her dedication and perseverance.
Simon’s personal life is equally inspiring. Simon emerged as the top vote-getter in the primary, securing 55% of the vote. She will face fellow Democrat Jennifer Tran in the general election. As president of Meadow Fund and on the Bay Area Rapid Transit Board of Directors, Simon’s career has been centered around equity initiatives.
Earlier this week, Lateefah Simon visited Barbara Lee’s election headquarters to offer support. Lee surprised Simon by passing her a baton during a news conference, symbolizing the transfer of responsibility. Inspired by leaders like Lee and Vice President Kamala Harris, whom she met at Mills College, Simon’s journey mirrors Lee’s in many ways. Both overcame challenges as single mothers and became advocates for change through politics and community organizing. Despite facing adversity, including the loss of her husband to cancer in 2014, she remains resilient. Raising her daughters as a single mother hasn’t slowed her down either.
Instead, Simon’s experiences have fueled her passion for advocacy. She’s fought tirelessly for marginalized communities, drawing inspiration from her own struggles.
Lateefah Simon has faced numerous challenges in her journey, yet she rises above them all. She has carved out a path for herself in politics.
As a Black woman with a disability, what can stop you now with shining examples such as Lateefah Simon showing that disability doesn’t equate to inability? Do you think her experiences will help inform her policies if elected?
