Over 200 supporters join Nika Elugardo at JP campaign kickoff for state representative

The progressive trailblazer promises to bring the people’s “power and voice back to the forefront of decision-making at the State House.”

JAMAICA PLAIN—Longtime community advocate Nika Elugardo kicked off her campaign for state representative Thursday night, vowing to “unabashedly champion progressive justice legislation” on Beacon Hill.

Joined by legendary community activist Mel King, former City Councilor Tito Jackson and more than 200 supporters at the Frogmore in Jamaica Plain, Elugardo outlined a bold progressive vision for the 15th Suffolk district.

“You deserve a representative who is as on fire as you are—and then some more,” said Elugardo, who lives in JP with her husband. “We need public servants who will shake the foundations of injustice until there is real opportunity, real prosperity and real justice for all, across Massachusetts.”

“We know our district is ready for change.”

“Nika has the heart to serve and the experience to lead.” said former City Councilor Tito Jackson after engaging the audience to chant “Who do we want? Nika! when do we want it? Now!” He continued, saying “Nika will lead on affordable housing, Nika will lead on comprehensive immigration reform, Nika will lead on the fight for $15 to ensure all workers have a $15/ hour minimum wage, Nika will lead on criminal justice reform. Nika, is ready to lead.”

Mel King, who mentored Elugardo during her time studying urban planning at MIT, addressed the energized audience “We know why we are standing with Nika, we know she will represent in the state house the interest of the people in need fearlessly, with compassion and with love.”

After citing her extensive experience as an organizer and systems thinker and a person who loves justice for all, King asked attendees to work hard with Elugardo and to follow him saying: “Love is the question and the answer. The love of power has limits and the power of love is infinite.” He closed to say “Nika is ready, she believes in the power of change and the power of love.”