Latonya’s Biography

Meet Latonya

I have worked in the community for many years, recognizing the issues that impact our marginalized neighbors and working towards disparity reduction and equitable policies and practices. As a union president, I have worked to bring the voices of strong, tenacious workers to the negotiating table as we fought for fair wages, paid family and medical leave, and more equitable health care that makes it possible for employees to take care of their families.

I’ve strived to change the system my entire life

My mother always taught me the value of education. When I was younger, I strived to be the best that I could be in a world that was challenging and bleak. I went to the University of Minnesota and obtained my Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science, and Sociology of Law, Criminology and Deviance. I have my Master of Science Degree in Public Service Leadership in Criminal Justice, and have completed all but my dissertation for my PhD in Criminal Justice. I am a life-long learner, always seeking knowledge in my chosen field.

I continue to fight for change to this day

As a Black woman I continue to raise up issues of inequality that impact my community, and I demand more equity and the inclusion of other marginalized communities so they can thrive and realize their own American dreams. As a community corrections professional I will bring awareness to initiatives that reduce disparities in the criminal justice system, center the voices of victims, work with stakeholders to improve public safety, shine a light on our ongoing concerns, and work hard to change the narrative of public safety in this country.

Housing, climate action, and universal health care are paramount issues that we must focus our legislative efforts on.

I’m running because we need leadership that will get the job done

As a member of the DNC I work hard to empower disaffected and disenfranchised voters across all demographics, encourage and support them to recognize their potential, and work towards finding energized Democrats to run for office. MAGA legislators are attempting to take away the voting rights of millions of marginalized people, just so they can stay in power. We need to stand up against these attempts to undo the hard work of the Civil Rights Movement and instead work collaboratively to include everyone in our democracy.