I AM EXCITED TO ANNOUNCE MY CANDIDACY TO FILL THE VACANCY IN SENATE DISTRICT 29.

With deep respect for the legacy of Senator Janet Buckner and the late Representative John Buckner, I am dedicated to building on their work to ensure every child has access to quality education and the opportunity to thrive in an economy that benefits everyone.

My commitment to advancing legislation that improves health, education, and economic opportunities is unwavering.

Through my work with the Colorado Health Benefit Exchange and Aurora Health Alliance, I have championed affordable healthcare access for all Coloradans, and I will continue to fight for policies that create a brighter, more equitable future for our communities.

I will continue to fight for policies that create a healthier, more equitable future for everyone in our state.

I’m running for Senate to bring bold, forward-thinking leadership to the Capitol and advocate for the hardworking families of Senate District 29. With deep roots in the Aurora community and a proven track record of leadership and advocacy, I am committed to championing policies that uplift the working class, expand economic and educational opportunities, and build a stronger, more equitable future for all.

Together, we can ensure our district receives the resources and representation needed to thrive and succeed.

WHY I AM RUNNING?

D I S T R I C T #29

F O R S E N A T E D I S T R I C T 2 9

A U R O R A

Building a brighter future starts with bold leadership, a commitment to equity, and a vision that empowers every voice in our community.

Maya's Leadership Transforming Aurora and Colorado

In 2020, while running for HD41, I proposed creating a State Office for Financial Empowerment, inspired by Denver’s model. Having lived in House District 41 since 1998, I was proud to see the idea come to fruition with the passage of Senate Bill 21-148 and the establishment of the Colorado Office of Financial Empowerment in 2021.

I helped shape this initiative, which now addresses financial barriers and promotes community wealth-building across the state.

In 2015, as Chair of the Aurora Human Relations Commission, I co-led an initiative with the Aurora NAACP to advocate for a disparity study to assess minority- and women-owned business participation in city contracts.

Our efforts resulted in the City of Aurora commissioning a formal study in 2022, providing critical data to design equitable contracting policies and enhance MWBE inclusion in public contracts.

In 2014, I collaborated with Dr. Shannon Bannister, fellow Human Relations Commissioners, and other key stakeholders to co-create the City of Aurora Immigrant and Refugee Task Force.

This collective effort led to the establishment of the Immigrant and Refugee Commission in 2015, promoting civic engagement, and supporting the integration of immigrant and refugee communities. In 2018, it played a pivotal role in shaping Aurora’s 10-year comprehensive plan by conducting outreach and providing critical policy recommendations.

As someone who has dedicated my life to public service and advocacy, I am committed to tackling the challenges that matter most to our community.

My key policy priorities reflect my vision for a more equitable, prosperous future—one where every individual has access to the opportunities and resources they need to thrive. These priorities are rooted in my belief that bold leadership and collaborative action can drive meaningful change for all.

Advancing Economic Mobility for Marginalized Communities

I will champion policies that create economic opportunities and promote financial independence, with a focus on empowering women of color, immigrants, and refugees.

MY Key Policy Priorities:

Expanding Access to Quality Education and Healthcare

I will fight to ensure all communities, especially those underserved, have access to high-quality education and affordable healthcare.

Promoting Entrepreneurship and Empowering Youth

I will work to eliminate barriers to youth entrepreneurship and invest in programs that equip young people with the skills and resources they need to succeed.

Affordable Housing and Economic Development

I will advocate for sustainable affordable housing solutions and support economic development initiatives, particularly in rural and underserved communities.

Championing Health Equity and Wellness

I will push for expanded access to healthcare and wellness programs, ensuring that all Coloradans, including undocumented immigrants and marginalized populations, receive the support they deserve.

Together, we can create a future where opportunity, equity, and prosperity are within reach for every member of our community.

Service has always been at the heart of who I am and what I do. Throughout my life, I have worked tirelessly to uplift my community, advocate for equity, and create opportunities for those who need them most.

From championing affordable healthcare and education to empowering immigrant and refugee communities, my past and current service reflect a deep commitment to making a tangible difference. These experiences have shaped my vision for a more inclusive and prosperous future for all.

Registered Democrat in Arapahoe County since 1995

Maya’s Past and Current Service

HD 41 RESIDENT SINCE 1998

Past Secretary, Treasurer, and PCP for HD 41 Arapahoe County Democrats

Past Chair, African American Initiative of the Colorado Democratic Party

Delegate for President Obama at the 2012 Democratic National Convention

Alumna of Emerge Colorado

Past Candidate for Aurora City Council At-Large and Colorado House District 41

Past Board Member for Aurora Health Access (now Aurora Health Alliance), Colorado Black Leadership Coalition, and current board member for the Good Shepherd Organization

Past Advisor for the Aurora Immigrant and Refugee Task Force (now Immigrant and Refugee Commission)

Past President, Colorado Black Women for Political Action (CBWPA)

Past Chair of the Aurora Human Relations Commission

Member of Immunize Colorado and Community Advisory Panel (CAP) at Denver Health

Guest Columnist for the Aurora Sentinel, The Gazette, and Colorado Politics

2nd Annual 2019 Obama Dinner: Recipient of the Colorado Democratic Party Outreach Award for building relationships with diverse communities across Colorado

Leadership Aurora Alum

ESL Volunteer Teaching Assistant, Intercambio

Past Policy Member, Colorado Alzheimer's Association

Past Worthy Matron, Lone Star Chapter No. 1, Order of the Eastern Stars