Rep. Rashida Tlaib, a voice for change

By V.S. Santoni April is Arab American History Month. Rashida Tlaib, a Democratic representative from Michigan’s 13th congressional district, made history as one of the first Muslim women elected to Congress, alongside Ilhan Omar of Minnesota. Born on July 24, 1976, in Detroit to Palestinian immigrant parents, Tlaib’s upbringing in a working-class family has deeply shaped her passion for social justice and public service. Tlaib’s political journey began in 2004 when she secured a seat in the Michigan House of Representatives, representing the 12th district, where she advocated for workers’ rights, environmental protections, and healthcare access. In 2018, she won the Democratic primary for Michigan’s 13th congressional district, making her the first Palestinian-American woman in Congress. & & & Since assuming office in January 2019, Tlaib has been a vocal advocate for progressive policies, aligning herself with the Congressional Progressive Caucus. She has championed initiatives such as Medicare for All, citing healthcare as a fundamental human right. Additionally, Tlaib has been a strong proponent of the Green New Deal, emphasizing the need for urgent action on climate change. Tlaib’s commitment to economic equity is evident in her support for raising the federal minimum wage to $15 per hour, aiming to...