To the Editor:

I first had the opportunity to meet Leigh Davis at a small gathering in April. I was immediately impressed with her intelligence, authenticity, and genuine interest in what others in the room had to say. I felt a deep sense of excitement that night, over the idea that this person could actually be my state representative.

As a millennial, I am part of a hollowed-out demographic in Berkshire County. It is not an unreasonable argument to make that population decline is responsible, directly or indirectly, for nearly all other issues we face.

In the race for Berkshire 3rd District House seat, Leigh Davis embodies the kind of leadership that I believe will be most conducive to attracting and retaining folks from my generation — not only because of her position on issues like affordable housing, but because of the participatory, inclusive, and empathic culture she will foster.

Research shows that, more so than our generational elders, millennials value experiences. We desire meaningful opportunities for professional and personal development. We seek a healthy work-life balance and care about our mental health (and yours, too). Many of us are anxious about what the world will look like for our children. We also yearn for an enhanced sense of community in the wake of a pandemic that made life a matter of survival — including for mothers of young children, like me. Many of us want our leaders to be more curious about what we think, and invite us to the table when it comes to developing solutions.

Complementing tireless and vociferous advocacy for the district in Boston, a successful state representative will set the tone at home in a way that supports a sense of belonging and collaboration.

Leigh Davis is uniquely qualified to do this work. Her resume and the manner in which she has run her campaign speak to that. The diversity of endorsements she has received reminds us that her platform has broad appeal, that she is articulate, well-studied, thoughtful and convincing, kind and brave, and ready.

Lastly, millennials value transparency. I appreciate how specific, chronological, and complete Leigh Davis has been in detailing her professional trajectory, including naming the companies which have employed her.

Please join me in voting for Leigh Davis on Sept. 3 and Nov. 5. By inviting all of us to take an active part in our futures, she will give those of us who value community a reason to stay. 

Julia Thomas
Monterey, Mass.

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