Thread by @meganforAR

Hi, Hola, Iakwe, Springdale. I am so incredibly proud and grateful to be your state representative. That’s why it’s so disappointing to announce today that I won’t be seeking re-election in 2022. #arpx #arleg 1/

A few weeks ago, when the Board of Apportionment released its draft map of new House districts, I joined dozens of people in calling on the board to amend the draft to keep downtown Springdale whole. 2/

I was so encouraged by the outpouring of support and was hopeful that the board would listen to our community. They didn’t. The partisan and divisive map, finalized today, leaves me in a district that stretches up into Benton County. 3/

That district deserves a different representative who can be a strong advocate for that community and its values, just as I have been a strong advocate for downtown and east Springdale. 4/

The good news is that there’s so much we can be proud of. During my two terms in the Arkansas House, I have diligently and fiercely advocated for the diverse voices of my community: 5/

expanding professional licenses to DACA recipients and other noncitizens, establishing bilingual education and dual immersion programs in Arkansas, advocating for Marshallese Arkansans to serve as law enforcement officers... 6/

making it easier for parents of young kids to run for elected office by allowing them to use campaign funds for childcare expenses, fighting for funding aimed to mitigate the disproportionate impact of COVID… 7/

and standing up and speaking out against hurtful bills harming people of color, immigrants, LGBTQ+ Arkansans, Arkansans struggling to make ends meet, and other marginalized individuals and communities. 8/

Even though I’ll be leaving the House at the end of 2022, I’m still inspired and energized to serve. I’ll be helping Democratic candidates in northwest Arkansas and throughout the state. 9/

I’ll be fighting for our immigrant communities, for educational equity and excellence, for public health and science, for our democracy, and for a truly inclusive Arkansas. 10/

No matter what is next for me, you can trust that I remain committed to my core values of fairness, compassion, and empowerment. 11/

Thank you, gracias, kommool tata to so many of you for partnering with me in that work for this community that I love so much. #arpx #arleg 12/12