Many people today feel discouraged, frustrated, or exhausted by our country’s political climate. Those feelings are real, and they deserve to be acknowledged. More than ever, local leadership requires listening carefully, treating people with dignity, and finding ways to work together even when there are disagreements.

Our city council campaign has never been about drawing lines between people based on political affiliation.

Long Beach is home to Democrats, Republicans, Independents, and residents with a wide range of political beliefs — and every single resident deserves to be heard, respected, and represented.

Family members, friends, neighbors, coworkers, and supporters in my own life come from many different political perspectives. Despite the noise and division that often dominate national politics, most people still want many of the same things for their families and communities: safe neighborhoods, good schools, economic opportunity, clean streets, responsive government, and a city where people feel seen and valued.

Healthy debate is part of democracy. Different opinions are part of democracy. But communities are strongest when people can disagree respectfully without dehumanizing one another or tearing apart the fabric of the neighborhoods we all share.

That spirit of collaboration, respect, and bridge-building has guided this campaign from the very beginning.

Back in 1992, as an 18-year-old high school senior, I felt so much excitement about participating in democracy for the very first time. Casting my first vote in the California primary election for Bill Clinton — who would later become President of the United States — was a moment that left a lasting impression about the importance of civic engagement and the power ordinary people have when they participate in the democratic process.

Support for working families, strong public schools, organized labor, economic opportunity, neighborhood investment, and pathways into the middle class have always been at the heart of Democratic values — and those values helped shape my commitment to education, public service, and community advocacy long before ever running for office.

Our campaign is deeply honored to have earned the endorsement of a growing coalition of Democratic organizations from throughout Long Beach and Los Angeles County, including:

• Los Angeles County Democratic Party

• Long Beach Democratic Club

• Democratic Women’s Study Club of Long Beach

• Long Beach Latino Democratic Club

• Long Beach Young Democrats Club

• Avance Democratic Club

• Greater Long Beach Black Democratic Club

These endorsements are especially meaningful because they come from grassroots leaders, organizers, educators, working people, young activists, and longtime community advocates who care deeply about the future of our city and the values we share.

With less than two weeks until Election Day, we are continuing to walk neighborhoods every single day, make phone calls, meet voters, and build the grassroots momentum needed to finish strong.

As Memorial Day approaches, our campaign would also like to extend a special invitation to military families throughout the 7th District to join us for a Military Families Coffee & Pastries Meet & Greet on Memorial Day, Monday, May 25, from 9:00–11:00 AM at Wrigley Coffee.The morning will be an opportunity to come together in community as we honor and remember those who served our country and made the ultimate sacrifice. We would love to see you there. Please click on this flyer to RSVP:

Thank you for believing in this campaign, for participating in the democratic process, and for continuing to show up for our community.

Let’s keep moving forward together!

With gratitude,

Dr. Vivian Malauulu

Candidate for Long Beach City Council District 7