Stamford Advocate Op-Ed: Why I’m running
For several years, I have had the opportunity to volunteer with local organizations in Stamford. As my involvement grew, I have met community members who represent the best of our city. Through these efforts, I am reminded about what really matters and what public service is all about. So I’m excited to share why I’m running to be state representative here in Stamford, where I was born and raised.
In April, I launched a campaign to serve my neighbors in the 146th State House District, which covers parts of Downtown, the South End, and Shippan. It was not an easy decision but, as many Stamford residents have expressed to me since then, it was the right one.
At community events and while knocking on doors or calling voters, I frequently hear a similar response: residents of the 146th District just want a level playing field without having to spend so much of their paychecks on utilities, groceries, housing, or other expenses. Hardworking families in Stamford deserve a chance to get ahead.
They want their kids to have high quality academic experiences in quality daycare, preschool through college and career-readiness training. And they want safe neighborhoods, which includes addressing coastal erosion and environmental injustices.
After arriving from Ireland, my father ran a newspaper delivery business and worked at Pitney Bowes. Later, he owned a few laundromats including the Glenbrook Laundromat on Church Street. My mother was first a stay-at-home mom and then served for three decades as a nurse, including at the Children's Learning Centers of Fairfield County.
While everyone’s life journey is different, as a first generation American, I understand what it means to have a dream in life and pursue it — oftentimes a vision that can be easier in concept than in reality. As a working mom, I raised my three children here in Stamford while instilling in them those same values.
By volunteering at Building One Community, the League of Women Voters, Police Activities League, and other impactful local organizations, I remain grounded and focused on a commitment to our Stamford community.
Through more than 35 years of professional leadership experience in the educational technology sector, I have been able to build consensus around important priorities while ensuring that key projects and goals are achieved with a collaborative approach.
In the state House, I will strive to exemplify that mentality. On the long nights, when a committee hearing extends beyond its intended adjournment, I will remember the reason I was elected in the first place. When a legislative session day ends after the next day has begun, I will recall who sent me there and, with the election, provided such a humbling opportunity.
While I intend to effectively serve everyone in the 146th District if elected, I have been a proud Democrat for my whole life. I believe in the shared values of community, where we build an economy that works for everyone. Where reproductive, voting, and LGBTQ+ rights are strengthened rather than at risk. A community where we respect and protect the environment around us. So I was honored to be overwhelmingly endorsed by the Stamford Democratic Party and the Greater Stamford Young Democrats.
I promise to be a resource that residents can count on when they have a constituent concern.
For anyone with a question or idea, I encourage you to reach out by contacting me ateilish@collinsmain4ct.comand I’ll be sure to respond in a timely manner.
You can also visit my websitecollinsmain4ct.comto learn more about my campaign or get involved. Lastly, be sure to follow me on Facebook and Instagram at @eilishmainct for exciting updates on the campaign trail.
If elected, I will fight every day for all Stamford residents. Because, just like when I volunteer with local organizations, that is what public service is all about. Giving back and putting people first.
Eilish Collins Main is the endorsed Democratic candidate for the 146th House District, which covers parts of Downtown, the South End, and Shippan.