By Susan Martin, Chapter vice chair
We are so proud to endorse Teresa Leger Fernandez for New Mexico’s 3rd Congressional District seat.
From attending Head Start as a little girl in Las Vegas, N.M., to her outstanding professional and educational achievements, Teresa understands the challenges and opportunities of her district. Growing up as one of 8 siblings, she exemplifies the best of Northern New Mexico — rooted in the land that nourishes us, but dreaming of and achieving social- justice victories for poor and underserved communities, including pueblos.
Her long history of community involvement includes such diverse issues as voting rights, housing, immigration, women’s issues and environmental matters. She was a commissioner of Las Acequias de Chupadero.
President Barack Obama appointed her to the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation. Her vision for the Green New Deal for New Mexico includes investing in small farmers and ranchers who can do regenerative agriculture.
To achieve our endorsement, Teresa went through a rigorous process. We send questionnaires, interview candidates, and require a two-thirds vote of two Club entities. Teresa stood out as a passionate and committed environmentalist who understands the urgency of this moment and the need to act to ensure the health of our planet for generations to follow.
She is also endorsed by Emily’s List, Latino Victory Fund, Taos Pueblo and Jicarilla Apache Nation (among others), and the Voter Protection Project.