I would like to wish you and your loved ones a very Merry Christmas and a joyous holiday season.

I also want to acknowledge—and sincerely respect—that not everyone in our community celebrates Christmas. We are blessed to live in a city rich with different faiths, traditions, and cultures, and I am grateful for the opportunity I’ve had to meet and learn from so many of you. Earlier this month, I spent time with members of our Jewish community at the start of Hanukkah and was honored to be invited into synagogues and temples to celebrate alongside them. These moments have been meaningful to me, and I am thankful for the openness, generosity, and shared humanity I’ve experienced.

At the same time, Christmas is part of my family’s story and my upbringing, and it’s a tradition we hold close in our household. We have been celebrating with family and friends all month, and we will continue to do so in the coming days. I share this not to exclude, but to be honest about who I am and the traditions that shaped me.

I am also very mindful that the holidays can be difficult for many. Some families cannot be together. Some are grieving the loss of loved ones. Others are navigating challenges that make this season feel heavy instead of joyful. If that is you, please know that I’m sending you an extra hug today. Please remember—I am just an email or a text away if you need someone to talk to.

Over the years, my children and I have made it a tradition to bake cookies and deliver them to neighbors we know may be alone on Christmas Day. It’s a small gesture, but we’ve learned that simple acts of kindness can mean everything. If you find yourself alone this holiday, please know that we have lots of bakers in our family who would be more than happy to deliver some homemade cookies to spread some cheer.

Feliz Navidad and Manuia le Kerisimasi!

Here’s a photo of me as a baby celebrating my first Christmas in Honduras at 11 months old, and another of me as a young child celebrating my first Christmas in the United States. My Dad surprised me with my very first bicycle. I had never opened so many presents before, and I remember the feeling of pure, childlike joy so clearly. That joy—rooted in hope, love, and possibility—is what I wish for each of you this season, regardless of your faith or how you celebrate.

Thank you for being part of this community and for allowing me the privilege of joining you. I hope you find moments of peace, comfort, and joy in the days ahead.

Sincerely,

Vivian Malauulu

Candidate for Long Beach City Council, District 7