Neighbors For Nilu

I’m deeply honored to receive the endorsement of State Representative Julia Reed.

Julia is a proven progressive leader who has turned values into action — fighting to strengthen tenant protections, expand affordable housing, invest in clean energy jobs, and advance equity in our tax and budget decisions. Her work in Olympia reflects a clear commitment to working families and communities too often left out of the process. I hope to match her level of accessibility and constituent service as a Seattle City Councilmember.

Julia’s policy expertise and results-driven leadership dovetail with my own experience working at the intersection of housing, climate, and economic justice. We share a belief that bold ideas must be matched with practical, implementable solutions — and that government should deliver real improvements in people’s day-to-day lives. I also really appreciate her engagement with the public in educating them on what is happening in session.

I’m grateful for Julia’s support and proud to stand alongside her as we work to build a more affordable, sustainable, and equitable Seattle.

Thanks to The Urbanist for writing about my campaign launch!

Climate Advocate Nilu Jenks Announces D5 Seattle Council Campaign » The Urbanist # Lake City activist Nilu Jenks is the first to jump in the race for Seattle City Council’s District 5. The special election could determine control of the council next year. The first-generation Iranian-American is stressing the need to protect immigrants and the environment as Trump attacks both...

“About once every seven years, my birthday falls on Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Today is one of those years. The next one won’t come until 2037.

Dr. King taught that the moral arc of the universe is long and bends toward justice. More importantly, he showed us how that bend happens—through organized, collective effort; through persistence; and through a deep commitment to community. Following in that tradition is at the heart of why I decided to run for Seattle City Council this year.

I was also born the year Iran entered its current regime. Each birthday marks another year of a system that has denied people dignity, freedom, and safety. I carry real heartache for both my country and my country of origin—for the ways power, fear, and indifference continue to harm ordinary people in both places. It is a sobering reminder of what happens when justice is denied—and why it must be defended, especially in light of what Iranians are facing today.

Today, I’m grounded in a steadfast commitment to community and to doing the work—locally, patiently, and with care—to help bend that arc toward something more just and humane.”

I’m honored to earn the endorsement of State Representative Darya Farivar.

Darya has been such a powerful voice in Olympia for North Seattle. As soon as she was elected, she immediately brought her lived experience and professional background in disability rights advocacy to the fight for affordable housing and behavioral health access. She has consistently stood up for immigrants, refugees, and people with disabilities, ensuring our policies center dignity and equity.

As the first Iranian American and Middle Eastern woman elected to the Washington State Legislature, Darya understands what it means to lift voices that are too often left out of decision-making.

I’m proud to stand with her as we work to build a Seattle that works for everyone.