My name is Gloria Williams, and today is my birthday. I am now 70 years old.

Vivian is my daughter. I had her just 26 days before I turned 18. For 11 years, she was my only child, until my second daughter, Geneva, was born.

I was still in high school when I had Vivian. Even though life was hard — becoming a mother at 17 and relying on my family’s support to help me raise her — I never considered dropping out of school, and I always worked. I have always loved learning and enjoyed working, which is why I still haven’t retired from my job at LAX where I have worked for almost three decades.

I had several jobs in Honduras, but my favorite was working as a phlebotomist in a medical laboratory, where I drew blood for patients. I often took Vivian to work with me, and all of my coworkers and the doctors loved having her there.

She was always full of energy, smart, talkative, and bursting with personality. She made people laugh and impressed them with her “chispa,” which is Spanish for spark. Even back then, we knew she was a natural-born leader.

Vivian used to “work” at the front desk at the lab, where she loved greeting patients. She was so friendly and made people feel comfortable. She remembered their names from previous visits and asked about their families. She held their hands when they were nervous about having their blood drawn. She had a natural curiosity about people because she genuinely cared about them. Long before she understood words like confidence and courtesy, she lived them.

As she grew up, I watched those same people skills shape her into a bold and courageous advocate for others. As a teacher, she always spoke up for her students when she saw a need. As a longshore worker, she has never been afraid to stand up for her coworkers. As a college trustee, she works tirelessly to serve and advocate for the community she represents.

I am incredibly proud of Vivian for always using both her voice and her heart to serve others. I know that as a city councilwoman, she will bring that same dedication, compassion, and hard work to the community she loves.

I invite you to visit Vivian’s campaign website to learn more, get involved, volunteer, and attend upcoming events. I will be at this Saturday’s meet and greet at the equestrian picnic area and would love to meet you there.

In honor of my birthday, I kindly ask if you would consider supporting my daughter with a small contribution to her campaign. Whether you choose to give $7 or $70, I would be deeply grateful if you did so on my behalf, as a gesture of support for the little girl I raised who has grown into a woman devoted to serving others.

Sincerely,

Gloria Williams

Vivian's Mami