Our Plan
1. Ensure we have the resources to have a seat at the table.
SAWPAC will provide the resources to ensure community members and advocates have access to elected officials. It is no secret that money buys access to political leaders. SAWPAC is our way to pool our resources, just like a giving circle, to make sure that political leaders hear our communities’ concerns and start paying attention when we speak.
2. Support candidates and hold legislators accountable.
If we want to change policy, it starts with having the right candidates in office. That is why we will recruit and train candidates and provide them with the financial resources to run campaigns and talk to voters.
Our support will also go to issues we think are essential for our community. Currently, we are supporting the passage of the Page Amendment that will put in the state constitution that everyone has access to quality education. As women, we know that having our children educated is one of the most important measures of their future success. Unfortunately, the Minnesota Public Education system is broken, and the Page Amendment is one meaningful way to fix it. SAWPAC will donate money and other resources to issues like the Page amendment, that are important to our community. SAWPAC is our way to impact the legislative change our community demands.
3. Build a grassroots network of advocates.
One of the best ways to make sure politicians care about issues is to make sure they hear directly from voters in their districts. Our Somali community spans across Minnesota. SAWPAC has a database of advocates willing to call, email, text, and meet directly with elected officials. Our goal is to continue growing and maintaining this database so we can utilize our advocates across Minnesota to amplify our policy agenda.
4. Protect election integrity.
SAWPAC protects the voices of the Somali community in the electoral process by bringing accountability to those engaging in predatory organizing and by promoting civic engagement as a way of life. This includes providing voter education and literacy regarding election laws, rules, and processes.
5. Make legislative change!
Through these community-wide efforts, SAWPAC will support initiatives that contribute to long-term legislative changes benefiting Somali women, their families, and the wider community.