Jamila Taylor, an attorney who advocates for crime victims with an extensive record of volunteer service in the Puget Sound, has announced her campaign for the state House. A Democrat, Taylor will run for the position currently held by outgoing 30th District state Rep. Mike Pellicciotti, who is running for state treasurer.

As a former statewide advocacy counsel for the Northwest Justice Project, Taylor managed a network of legal aid attorneys assisting domestic violence survivors and other crime victims. She has also worked locally and regionally on youth intervention programs and other crime and violence reduction efforts.

“I am running because we need new voices and experienced leaders committed to addressing our shared concerns about homelessness and affordable housing, public safety, health care, and equity,” Taylor stated in a campaign press release. “Throughout my legal career I’ve addressed challenges within the public safety continuum — from preventing youth violence to advocating for the safety of DV survivors and seniors at risk of exploitation. I’m excited to continue tackling these and other critical issues in the legislature.”

Health care is another priority for Taylor, who shares her home with her mother and sibling, both of whom live with chronic illness.

“Too many seniors and low income residents are having to choose between life saving medication or having somewhere to sleep at night,” Taylor stated. “I am fortunate that I am able to help provide for my family, but too many others lack a safety net — only perpetuating cycles of homelessness and other trauma. We have to do better as a state to care for all people. It’s not only compassionate, but makes fiscal sense.”

In addition to her prior work as a nonprofit director, Taylor is a small business owner and she manages a complex household budget. Taylor understands the pressures facing local families, and the need to maximize resources and deliver services efficiently — skills she says are needed in Olympia.

“Every day at work and at home I am managing limited resources, and will bring this same focus on accountability and efficiency to the legislature,” Taylor continued in the press release. “Representative Pellicciotti is a real leader for government transparency and accountability, and I look forward to continuing this work, building on my expertise in nonprofit governance, establishing public-private partnerships and collaborations, and fiscal oversight.”

Taylor stated she begins the campaign with strong support from local leaders including a key endorsement from 30th District state Sen. Claire Wilson.

“I’ve known Jamila as a fighter for the next generation of leaders in Federal Way and beyond,” stated Wilson in the press release, who served on the Federal Way School Board for eight years prior to her election to the state Senate. “Jamila is a needed voice not only for smart reforms of our criminal justice system, but for great schools with the support all scholars need and deserve to make the most of their education and careers, and also for the families who live within our communities.”

Cynthia Ricks-Maccotan, a prominent youth violence prevention advocate and resident of the 30th District who serves with Taylor on the Federal Way Human Services Commission, is another early endorser.

“Jamila tackles challenges collaboratively and develops practical, action-oriented solutions. She is deeply committed to creating access to opportunity for South County families and will bring the community-focused perspective and leadership we need to Olympia,” stated Ricks-Maccotan in the press release.

Having recently run for Federal Way City Council, Taylor has built a grassroots campaign network that she said will transfer to the Legislative race.

“I’m excited to talk to the voters and would be honored to serve in this important role,” stated Taylor. “The tough challenges we face demand action and leadership. I’m proud of the experience and perspective I’ll bring to the legislature, reflecting my deep commitment to public service and positive change that works for all the people in our community.”

Learn more at electjamilataylor.com.