MoveOn is Proud to Endorse Ayanna Pressley for Congress!
Meet Ayanna Pressley
Ayanna Pressley is an advocate, activist, and survivor who made history in 2018 when she became the first woman of color elected to represent Massachusetts’ 7th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives. Driven by her belief that “those closest to the pain should be closest to the power,” Ayanna has dedicated her career to elevating diverse voices and pushing for policies that uplift marginalized communities. Her approach emphasizes the importance of including the perspectives of those most impacted by systemic inequities in shaping public policy.
Early Life and Political Roots
Born in Cincinnati and raised in Chicago, Ayanna grew up as the only child of a single mother and a father who was in and out of the criminal justice system. Her mother, Sandra Pressley, was a tenants’ rights organizer, and her activism inspired Ayanna’s commitment to civic engagement and public service. In 1992, Ayanna moved to Boston to attend Boston University, where she began her professional career as an aide to Congressman Joseph P. Kennedy II and later Senator John Kerry.
In 2009, Ayanna launched a historic campaign for Boston City Council, becoming the first woman of color elected to the Council in its 100-year history. There, she worked with community leaders and residents to address inequities in areas like public health, housing, and education.
Bold Leadership in Congress
In Congress, Ayanna Pressley has championed a bold, activist agenda. She has introduced legislation aimed at fair wages for low-wage workers, criminal justice reform, and protections for survivors of sexual assault and harassment. She is also a vocal advocate for reproductive rights, immigrant communities, and transportation equity. Ayanna’s leadership has earned her numerous honors, including the EMILY’s List Rising Star Award and recognition as one of The New York Times’ 14 Young Democrats to Watch.
Ayanna lives in Hyde Park, Boston, with her husband, Conan Harris, their stepdaughter, Cora, and their cat, Sojourner Truth.