AALM: When did you first know you wanted to become an attorney?
YS: In 1992 you could spot my dorm room from across Vanderbilt’s campus because I had the only visible Clinton Gore ‘92 sign in my window. Being one of the very few Democrats in my classes and among my friends encouraged me to pursue a career that allowed me to advocate for my values. To the chagrin of my family of doctors and nurses, I knew I wanted to practice law and develop the skills to use my voice to create positive change.
AALM: What do you find particularly rewarding about being an attorney?
YS: The pro-bono work I do to help people immigrate to the United States legally and protect Texans’ voting rights feeds my soul. I am the daughter of two immigrants, and I see so much of my parents in the people I’ve helped become legal residents. I am grateful for the sacrifices my parents made to ensure I had the opportunity to live the American dream and I’m proud of my work to help families give the same opportunity to their kids. My parents also instilled in me the importance of voting in every election which is why I volunteer my time and legal services during elections to protect every eligible voter’s access to a ballot. My work in and outside of the courtroom continues to reaffirm my commitment to building a Texas where everyone is guaranteed equal protection, which is why I am running for office today.
AALM: How has your legal career prepared you for a future in the legislature?
YS: Being a legal expert informs my understanding of how to shape, amend, and repeal laws. My work as a litigator has given me the ability to persuade people to unite under common goals to do the work Texans depend on their legislators to do. Fierce commitment to your values and the skill of conflict resolution are not mutually exclusive. Appreciating the perspective of others with whom you may disagree is the beginning of conflict resolution, not its impediment.
AALM: How are you involved in the community? Are there any organizations you’re particularly passionate about?
YS: As a proud public school kid and mom of three, I know access to a high-quality education is essential to prepare our kids for their futures. Texas public schools have been chronically underfunded for far too long with our current legislators in Austin. I am a strong supporter of the work Mad For Plaid does in my community to fill the void left by the state’s inadequate education funding by raising money to increase public school funding and educator salaries.
I am also passionate about finding loving homes for abandoned and abused animals. We have long been parents to rescue pups (who we suspect run the gamut politically) and we continue to support the organizations from where we adopted them.
AALM: Is there anything else you would like to add?
YS: I am running for the Texas Legislature because we need to restore ethics-driven, business-minded, problem-solving leadership in Austin. I am proud to have earned the endorsement of Dallas County Judge Clay Jenkins and continue to be humbled by the outpouring of support in our community. If you would like to join our team of supporters and help us with this race please reach out.
