Ayanna Pressley

Ayanna Pressley grew up in a tough neighborhood in Chicago. Bad influences and distractions were around every corner. However, she learned that her neighborhood could be a nurturing, positive place to grow up. She sincerely believes the people make a mistake when they stereotype neighborhoods as "bad," and not worth our attention or investment. Her mother raised Ayanna on her own because her father was battling an addiction and was in and out of prison for most of her childhood. They often lived paycheck to paycheck. Thanks to her mother's sacrifices, Ayanna was able to attend one of the best schools in Chicago. She believes that no family should have to make the sacrifices her own mother made. Ayanna’s childhood experiences have shaped her political philosophy and alas, inspired her to run for Boston City Council.

In 1995, Ayanna received the unique opportunity to work for Congressman Kennedy as a constituent services representative. Through her work in his office, she was able to help families like her own gain access to opportunities and services. It was a start to her career in public service for which she will always be grateful.

Since then, Ayanna has worked on behalf of families throughout Massachusetts as Senator Kerry's Political Director, served in leadership positions with groups such as the Massachusetts Women's Political Caucus, the Young Professionals Preventing Child Abuse, and the Children's Trust Fund. In addition, she mentors with the Young Black Women's Society and the Big Sister Association of Greater Boston, and is a member of the NAACP. She also serves on the Boards of several Boston and statewide organizations, including the UMass Boston Center for Women in Politics and Public Policy, the Massachusetts Women's Political Caucus and Emerge Massachusetts. She has dedicated her career to public service, in particular to ensuring that women and minorities are given equal opportunities to succeed.

www.ayannapressley.com