Mahanaz Ebadi

Granted political asylum, they settled in the United States with hopes of beginning a new chapter where life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness were rooted deep in tradition. This is a stark juxtaposition from the current rule of law in Afghanistan where women are increasingly deprived from basic human rights and independence. If it weren’t for the resources this amazing country provided my family, I could have easily been one of the many voiceless Afghan women. Instead, I am the first in my family to obtain a Juris Doctor. 

‍

I am an attorney and I work as a legislative aide for a district six supervisor at San Francisco City Hall. As a legislative aide I work on resolutions, ordinances, and legislation to improve the City and County of San Francisco. One area of focus has been drug policy, and I have worked alongside public officials to tackle open level drug dealing. An ordinance I have worked on as a legislative aide is to require all pharmacies in San Francisco to stock at least two boxes of Narcan, the overdose reversal medication, before and after it is available for over-the-counter sale. Wider availability of the life-saving drug could prevent the escalating rate of fatal drug overdoses in the city. 

‍

The history of those that came before me has inspired me to devote my career towards public service. I’m passionate about working alongside the leaders of tomorrow regarding the injustices that women face globally. I'm extremely focused on being an example for Afghan women to be strong, outspoken, determined individuals and take active steps to partake and the betterment of themselves and their community.

‍