Washington's progressive champion explains how we can achieve a truly inclusive America that works for all of us
In November 2016, Pramila Jayapal (D-WA) was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, the first Indian American woman to serve in that role. Two years later, the "fast-rising Democratic star and determined critic of President Donald Trump," according to Politico's Playbook 2017 "Power List," won reelection with more votes than any other member of the House. Jayapal, co-chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, proved her progressive bonafides when she introduced the most comprehensive Medicare-for-all bill to Congress in February.
Behind the story of Jayapal's rise to political prominence lie over two decades of devoted advocacy on behalf of immigrants and progressive causes—and years of learning how to turn activism into public policy that serves all Americans. Use the Power You Have is Jayapal's account of the path from sixteen-year-old Indian immigrant to grassroots activist, state senator, and now progressive powerhouse in Washington, DC.
Written with passion and insight, Use the Power You Have offers a wealth of ideas and inspiration for a new generation of engaged citizens interested in fighting back and making change, whether in Washington or in their own communities.
Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal represents Washington's 7th District, which encompasses most of Seattle and surrounding areas. The first Indian American woman in the House of Representatives, Jayapal has spent nearly thirty years working internationally and domestically as an advocate for women's, immigrant, civil, and human rights. She lives in Seattle, Washington.
Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal represents Washington's 7th District, which encompasses most of Seattle and surrounding areas. The first Indian American woman in the House of Representatives, Jayapal has spent nearly thirty years working internationally and domestically as an advocate for women's, immigrant, civil, and human rights. The author of Use the Power You Have (The New Press), she lives in Seattle, Washington.
Table of Contents
Part I Politics
1 My Immigrant Story 1
2 Becoming an American, Becoming an Activist 24
3 Why Not Me? Running for Office 59
4 State Senate: A Proving Ground 78
5 Congress: Testing My Theory at the Highest Level 103
6 The Movement Goes to Washington 137
7 Building, Pushing, Surging: The Squad, Pelosi, and Me 172
Part II Moral Visions
8 Moral Vision-Immigration 209
9 Moral Vision-Medicare for All 249
10 Moral Vision-The Fight for $15 and the Three Supremacies 285
