To the editor:

I have been a supporter of Canek Aguirre from his first run for office. While watching a recent City Council session, my support was once again validated. On April 6, City Council was discussing the Arlandria-Chirilagua Planning Process Update – a comprehensive process undertaken to preserve this long-standing, diverse, largely Latinx community in Alexandria.

Councilor Aguirre’s knowledge, experience and unique voice was critical to that discussion. As the past president of Tenants and Workers United, the community organization working with the City’s Housing Department to meaningfully and successfully engage Arlandria-Chirilagua residents in the process, Aguirre evinced a good understanding of the history, importance and needs of this diverse community and was able to provide an important context to the discussion. Without Aguire, this perspective would be absent on council.

On a wide variety of issues, Aguirre’s range of experience has added a critical dimension to council. His three years as a professional working with Alexandria City Public Schools families has informed his family and student-centered perspective on issues related to our public schools.

Currently, his work increasing health outcomes and care for Medicaid populations in Northern Virginia has made him a valuable resource in the city’s efforts to provide equitable COVID-19 services. All of this, along with his personal life experiences as the child of Mexican immigrants, give him what I consider to be MVP status on council.

In an impressive field of Democratic candidates, Canek Aguirre distinguishes himself every day through his service to Alexandria – on council and beyond. I urge you to join me in supporting his re-election to City Council. We need his voice and knowledge more than ever.

-Sammie Moshenberg, Alexandria