Ahlam 4 PDX

This Labor Day, I spent an afternoon picketing at the local Fred Meyers in solidarity with workers. Currently, Fred Meyers’s and New Season workers are not being treated fairly and there is a lack of transparency in Fred meyers contract negotiations. Labor unions such as UFCW Local 555 are organizing to make sure that workers are being advocated for and to push better working conditions.

As a first generation Somali immigrant, and daughter of refugees, I think of workers who cannot advocate for themselves, who are abused and taken advantage of because they don’t speak English or know their rights, undocumented workers and people who can not afford to take the day off. Many of us are typically not able to picket or rally as a means of survival and protection. I am grateful for Labor unions for doing this work to mobilize and put their lives and identity on the line to speak up for those who don’t have the power.

Hi! Join me at Premium Matcha Cafe Maiko on Wednesday, September 11, from 6-7 PM for Tea & Policy! 🍵💚 with this new form of government, we will dive into how everyone, including young people, can have a voice in Portland City Hall, what true government transparency looks like, and how we can make sure elected leaders keep their promises to the public. Civic engagement needs to be inclusive, and everyone deserves to have a voice in policy. 🌱 Support a local business while you’re here but no purchase necessary to participate. Please RSVP!

Transportation & Tea with Ahlam 🌱🚃 It was great to converse with community members about transportation in District 3. Some issues highlighted were:
🌱 lack of reliable transportation (esp for those who rely on public transit for school or work) unpaved sidewalks, and feeling unsafe early mornings and late nights.
🌱 expanding youth transit-friendly initiatives such as and overall discussed the importance of free transit for all.
🌱 improving overall transit infrastructures in SE/E Portland (there is a stark difference on transit efficiency on the West side of PDX)

I signed the No Fossil Fuel Pledge, because we all deserve a cleaner, safer, greener environment. ♻️🌍
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As an environmental advocate, my number one priority is climate justice. I am committed to supporting local programs, CBO’s, and initiatives that advocate for environmental protection and climate resiliency for Portlanders.

I’m happy to share that I received an endorsement from Nafisa Fai, who just got re-elected to serve as the Washington County Commissioner representing District 1. Nafisa Fai is the first Black commissioner, who is also a woman, Somali-American with a public health and equity background. Fai has mentored me since I was 16, and has paved the way for candidates like me.

Thank you for your service ! It is an honor to be endorsed by you.

This morning, I met with Ess and a few residents of the Kailash Ecovillage to discuss the pressing environmental issues in our district and city-wide. Kailash Ecovillage, located in SE Portland, is an intentional community offering a model for sustainable urban living. The first thing I noticed before my meeting was across from the community room was a community garden. Ess explained to me that before, it was a parking lot. Kailash EcoVillage believes in Portland becoming a less car-centric city (which is 100% possible and realistic) and is pushing towards initiatives that support this vision. As city councilor, my goal is to support and advocate for sustainable projects, such as multimodal transportation for all.

Hello 👋🏾 I’m Ahlam. This afternoon, I’m excited to announce my candidacy for the Portland City Council, aiming to represent District 3 (inner SE) and its beautiful communities.

I am running because I’ve witnessed the impacts of underrepresentation in our city’s leadership and policies. As a native Portlander, small business owner, and daughter of Somali refugees, I believe that those with direct and lived experiences of community issues are best positioned to advocate effectively for their neighborhoods.

I am committed to ensuring that every voice in District 3 and in the city of Portland is heard and valued in shaping policies that truly reflect our needs and values. Together, we can build a more inclusive and equitable Portland where every resident can flourish, and thrive.

If you would like to support me in this journey; here is how:

⭐️ Click the link in my bio to help me qualify for the city’s matching Small Donor Elections Program. Your $20 will be matched 9 times by the city.
⭐️ Share and spread the word!
⭐️ Email [email protected] if you would like to volunteer on my campaign or support me in outreach, events, planning and many other ways!