Spokane’s story is one of resilience, labor, and perseverance, yet it remains overlooked on the national stage. My family's journey is a reflection of the struggles that so many in our community face every day. As the child of a small business owner who works tirelessly to stay afloat, the sibling of a disabled individual who depends on social services, and a proud member of the working class, I know firsthand the economic hardships, the quiet struggles, and the determination that define our city. Spokane is a place built by the hands of workers, shaped by generations of laborers, and rich with history and culture, but time and time again, our voices are drowned out by the influence of Western Washington.

Spokane deserves national recognition, and it is time for prominent leaders like Senator Bernie Sanders and Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez to visit our city, hear our concerns, and stand with us. Their advocacy for working-class communities has made a tangible impact across the country. They have traveled to rural and red-leaning areas, standing alongside workers, union members, and young activists. Spokane should be next.

Eastern Washington faces significant economic challenges. Over fifteen percent of families in this region struggle to stay above the federal poverty line, and in Spokane County, more than thirty-six percent of households are classified as ALICE—Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed— meaning they work hard but still cannot afford basic necessities such as housing, childcare, food, and healthcare. The cost of living continues to rise, yet wages have remained stagnant for many workers. Rural communities, farmers, ranchers, service workers, and tradespeople form the backbone of our region, but their needs are too often ignored by policymakers. Unions fight tirelessly for better pay and conditions, yet they receive little attention beyond our local headlines. This must change.

Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez have built a movement dedicated to economic justice, labor rights, and working-class empowerment. They have fought for fair wages, universal healthcare, and better protections for workers across the country. They have listened to communities just like ours—communities that are left out of the conversation but are just as vital to the future of this nation.

Spokane deserves that same solidarity.

A visit from these leaders would amplify our struggles and shine a national spotlight on the hardworking people of Eastern Washington. It would provide hope to those who feel forgotten and inspire the next generation of activists and organizers in our city. It would show that Spokane is not just a shadow in the Pacific Northwest but a community with a voice, a spirit, and a future worth fighting for.

This movement starts with you. By signing this petition, you are calling on Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez to stand with Spokane, to walk our streets, to hear our stories, and to bring our fight to the national stage. Together, we can make it happen.

Sign today and make your voice heard. Spokane matters.