Sign in

Aparna Raj

@aparnafordc.bsky.social
831 followers 168 following 600 posts

Running for DC Council, Ward 1 ☝🏾 Union member, tenant organizer, Democratic Socialist. 🌹 A better world is possible! ☀️ aparnafordc.com Donate today: secure.actblue.com/donate/aparnafor…

PostsRepliesMedia
Aparna Raj @aparnafordc.bsky.social · 10h
DC voters made clear that they want to move away from years of mismanagement and prioritizing corporate interest and towards democratic socialist governance that will fight to make sure people have what they need, and that government is working effectively for all of us.
020 0
Aparna Raj @aparnafordc.bsky.social · 10h
Progressive revenue raisers make it easier for people to keep a roof over their heads, keep the lights on, have health care coverage, or take home enough pay to afford groceries and other necessities. And for that to happen, big business and the extremely wealthy need to pay their fair share.
100 0
Aparna Raj @aparnafordc.bsky.social · 10h
For years we've heard the need for shared sacrifice, but that sacrifice has been falling disproportionately on the shoulders of working people. We know that we can tax things like passive income, high-value second homes, and wealth to rebalance that burden.
110 0
Aparna Raj @aparnafordc.bsky.social · 10h
Our economy may diversify or with a friendlier president we may see workers rehired. But until then, it's on local government to act boldly to support everyday people. COVID saw bold recovery programs, but this time we don't have federal support. Local gov needs to step up.
110 0
Aparna Raj @aparnafordc.bsky.social · 10h
That being said, the scale of the crisis we're dealing with can't be addressed solely by incremental adjustments. DOGE blew a massive hole in the economy, the cost of living is rising, and National Guard/ ICE presence has had a chilling effect for our local economy.
111 0
Aparna Raj @aparnafordc.bsky.social · 10h
Raising revenue and using our dollars effectively aren't mutually exclusive things - in fact, we need both. We've seen over a decade of mismanaged contracts and patronage by the Bowser admin, and I'm looking forward to working with our new mayor on where we can save costs.
141 0
Aparna Raj @aparnafordc.bsky.social · 12/10/2026
For years, @ilhanmn.bsky.social has been subject to some of the most heinous, racist attacks from the president and his base for being an immigrant, a Black woman, and a vocal progressive. Now, he’s invading her home. This is fascism unfolding before us. Solidarity with the Congresswoman.
090 0
Aparna Raj @aparnafordc.bsky.social · 12/10/2026
Trump has ordered the National Guard to occupy DC through the next presidential transition. His federal agents have detained political dissidents and murdered people in broad daylight. Going after political opponents is the next escalation in his abuse of state power.
1151 0
Reposted by Aparna Raj
Ilhan Omar @ilhanmn.bsky.social · 12/10/2026
I’m ok. Make no mistake: this is an attempt to target political enemies and weaponize federal law enforcement. For ten years, Trump has targeted me with baseless lies and smear campaigns. This is just the latest escalation in his campaign of political intimidation. I will not be silenced.
14805001011745 0
Aparna Raj @aparnafordc.bsky.social · 05/10/2026
Elige a tu luchador: ¡edición Semana sin Carro! 🥊 Esta semana es una oportunidad para identificar formas de mejorar los horarios de los autobuses, conectar las ciclovías, reparar las aceras y mucho más. ¡Hagamos que sea más fácil, más rápido y más seguro desplazarnos por DC!
Usuario de autobús:
Puedes consultar las indicaciones durante el trayecto
Cuenta con una red que abarca todo DC
Es como una lata de sardinas en hora pico
A veces hay que gritar “¡puerta trasera!”
¡Apoyamos a ATU Local 689!
Ciclista:
No hay que esperar
Requiere bastante confianza
Complicado si no tienes buen sentido de orientación
Una infraestructura de ciclovías protegidas en expansión, pero aún incompleta
Se necesita un caso
La forma más directa de desplazarse
Usuario de metro:
No tienes que esperar en el tráfico: ¡RÁPIDO!
Puedes hacer ejercicio subiendo las escaleras mecánicas de la estación
Es difícil encontrar algo a lo que agarrarte en hora pico si eres bajito
¡Apoyamos a ATU Local 689!
Peatón: 
La opción más económica (gratis)
También puede llevar un cartel de protesta
Ideal para practicar la atención plena o para conocer DC de manera diferente
Lleva mucho más tiempo que cualquier otra opción
020 0
Aparna Raj @aparnafordc.bsky.social · 05/10/2026
Bus Rider:
Can look at directions on the ride
Has a network all across DC
Sardine can during rush hour
Sometimes have to shout “back door!”
Supporting ATU Local 689!
Biker:
No wait times required
Requires a decent amount of confidence
Tough if you’re bad at directions
Growing but not yet complete protected bike lane infrastructure
Need a helmet
The most direct way to get around
Graphic 3:
Metro Rider:
Don’t have to wait in traffic - FAST!
Can get a workout walking up some station escalators
Tough to find something to hang on to during rush hour if you’re short
Supporting ATU Local 689!
Pedestrian:
The most affordable (free) option
Can also carry a protest sign
Good for mindfulness or getting to see DC in a different way
Takes way longer than any other option
160 0
Aparna Raj @aparnafordc.bsky.social · 05/10/2026
Choose Your Fighter: Week Without Driving edition! 🥊 This week is a chance to note ways to improve bus times, bike lane connectivity, sidewalk repairs, and more. Whether you ride transit, bike, or are a pedestrian, let's make it easier, faster, and safer to move around DC!
191 0
Aparna Raj @aparnafordc.bsky.social · 02/10/2026
**As we have not yet won the general election, there is no official transition or hiring process, and this form does not guarantee a job in the office or moving forward in a hiring process. After November 3rd, if we win, our team may reach out to speak more with you about your skills and experience.
051 0
Aparna Raj @aparnafordc.bsky.social · 02/10/2026
Interested in working in the Ward 1 DC Council office? While right now, we're focused on the general election, we're also gauging interest from people dedicated to fighting for a better Ward 1 in the Council office if we win. Share your interest by November 8 here: airtable.com/app5UvQUZgEw...
Graphic that reads "Want to work with us? (If we win the general election in November" -- Share your interest by November 8th"
166 0
Aparna Raj @aparnafordc.bsky.social · 30/09/2026
Just three town halls left this fall! Governing for all of us will take all of us. Our next stop is in Columbia Heights- see more information and RSVP to any of our town halls here: www.mobilize.us/aparnafordc/
mobilize.us
Volunteer Opportunities, Events, and Petitions Near Me · Aparna for DC on Mobilize
Find events, petitions, volunteer opportunities, fundraisers and more with Aparna for DC.
030 0
Aparna Raj @aparnafordc.bsky.social · 30/09/2026
People turned OUT for last night’s Ward One for All town hall for Park View & Pleasant Plains at Hook Hall (& feat. SBOE Ward 1 rep Ben Williams)! There was lots of energy around expanding tenant protections, renovating the Park View Rec Center, ending MPD collaboration with ICE, and more 💥
Photo of Aparna shaking hands with and speaking to some seniors attending the Hook Hall event Photo of a crowd of 50-60 people at Hook Hall with some raising their hands Photo of SBOE rep Ben Williams speaking into a microphone on stage at Hook HallPhoto of Aparna on stage speaking into a microphone at hook hall with tables of attendees listening
150 0
Aparna Raj @aparnafordc.bsky.social · 18/09/2026
One year after the occupation started, and it’s dangerously escalating. A surge of armed troops and a helicopter at a school don’t make families feel safe, they just serve to intimidate and keep people living in fear. www.washingtonsun.com/metro/dc-fed...
washingtonsun.com
Neighbors Upset Over Federal Agents’ Presence at D.C. School
Agents and National Guard troops handed out fliers outside a Northwest elementary school, as a helicopter hovered overhead.
053 0
Aparna Raj @aparnafordc.bsky.social · 17/09/2026
The power of a union! ✊🏾 This is so cool for the Spirit & NWSL and shows how organized workers can bargain for working conditions that meet their needs. As Councilmember, I'll fight to support both new families and workers' ability to form a union. www.washingtonsun.com/sports/spiri...
washingtonsun.com
The Spirit’s New Moms Navigate the Season with Babies in Tow
A league policy allows players to have their babies — and in some cases, their spouses — travel with the team.
181 0
Aparna Raj @aparnafordc.bsky.social · 17/09/2026
Let’s elect another DC statehood supporter to Congress: secure.actblue.com/donate/aes-w...
secure.actblue.com
Donate to Abdul El-Sayed
We’re building a movement to win the Senate majority and elect Abdul El-Sayed to the U.S. Senate. Join me and chip in:
071 0
Aparna Raj @aparnafordc.bsky.social · 17/09/2026
“Politics isn’t about just doing what’s popular, it’s about making what’s right popular.” @abdulelsayed.bsky.social’s 2018 campaign inspired me in ways I didn’t even realize at the time. I can’t wait to have him in the Senate!
Photo of Aparna and Abdul smiling at the camera at metrobar Photo of Saul and Abdul speaking at metrobar and pointing at someone Photo of Stu, Jamaal Bowman, and Aparna Photo of Aparna talking to people at metrobar
1143 0
Aparna Raj @aparnafordc.bsky.social · 15/09/2026
We’re visiting four more neighborhoods this fall- come on out and help us shape our next government! www.mobilize.us/aparnafordc/...
mobilize.us
Volunteer Opportunities, Events, and Petitions Near Me · Aparna for DC on Mobilize
Find events, petitions, volunteer opportunities, fundraisers and more with Aparna for DC.
020 0
Aparna Raj @aparnafordc.bsky.social · 15/09/2026
Last night, we met with neighbors from U Street, LeDroit Park, and Shaw to hear their priorities around housing, economic development, government services, and more. Thank you to everyone who came out to share your ideas for a Ward 1 for All! 💭💛
Photo of two emcees standing at a podium that reads “Aparna for DC” and speaking into microphones Photo of Aparna and an audience member standing in a room full of people and holding mics to speak Photo of Aparna and an attendee smiling and talking to each other Photo of an attendee writing something down next to a board that reads “housing” with different sticky notes
2110 0
Aparna Raj @aparnafordc.bsky.social · 13/09/2026
All across the Ward this weekend with Art All Night in Mount Pleasant, U Street, and Shaw, and then Adams Morgan Day! ✨🎨 Art is joyful, but it’s also political and we’re so lucky to have so many incredible artists in Ward 1 and DC.
070 0
Aparna Raj @aparnafordc.bsky.social · 10/09/2026
Between the closure of MedStar Washington Hospital Center’s postpartum unit, and cuts at Unity Health Care, private health companies prioritizing their profits over patients puts us all at risk. Joined @nationalnurses.bsky.social, @dcjwj.bsky.social, and community members last night to push back.
Photo of a group of about 100 people in a church holding up fists and smiling at the camera, with a banner in front that says “RNs: Strong Unions, Protect Our Patients”
050 0
Aparna Raj @aparnafordc.bsky.social · 09/09/2026
Thousands of people in the DC area would be affected if TPS for El Salvador expires. I'm glad it's in tact for now, but this constant instability is another part of the cruelty this administration has inflicted on immigrants who have built their lives here and are undoubtedly part of our community.
032 0
Aparna Raj @aparnafordc.bsky.social · 09/09/2026
¡Empieza el otoño con nosotros! 🏈 Es temporada de fútbol americano, y el partido inaugural se juega entre los Commanders y mi equipo favorito desde que crecí en PA: los Philadelphia Eagles (🫣). ¡Acompáñanos a ver el partido en Midlands este domingo! www.mobilize.us/dashboard/ap...
Eagles vs Commanders; Fiesta para ver el partido del fin de semana inaugural; Midlands Beer Garden; El domingo, 13 de septiembre; 4:30 PM-7:30PM
001 0
Aparna Raj @aparnafordc.bsky.social · 09/09/2026
Kick off fall with us! 🏈 It’s football season, and opening weekend is a matchup between the Washington Commanders and divisional rival, and my favorite team from growing up in PA, the Philadelphia Eagles (🫣). Join us for a watch party at Midlands on Sunday! www.mobilize.us/dashboard/ap...
Eagles vs Commanders; Opening weekend watch party; Midlands Beer Garden, Sunday, September 13 from 4:30pm-7:30pm
131 0
Aparna Raj @aparnafordc.bsky.social · 07/09/2026
Happy Labor Day! ✊🏾 A more affordable DC means giving workers more power. Today, I joined @DCLabor at the Greenbelt Labor Day parade and Friday I joined a seminar about how local government can partner with worker orgs and unions to co-enforce labor law.
Photo of Aparna and 6 other speakers smiling in front of a Georgetown Law bannerPhoto of Aparna and Metro Washington Council leadership marching together and smiling Photo of the IUPAT group with their banner and signs Photo of the full group of labor attendees with banners and signs for the Metro Washington Labor Council, ATU, and IUPAT
060 0
Aparna Raj @aparnafordc.bsky.social · 03/09/2026
We often talk about what our government should be, but with @janeese4dc.bsky.social as our next mayor, we can dream about what our government could be. 💜 Last night’s @janeese4dc.bsky.social Ward 1 listening session brought neighbors together around housing, good jobs, childcare and more!
Photo of Aparna, Janeese, Ward 1 SBOE rep Ben Williams, and Reverend Rob Keithan from All SoulsPhoto of Janeese speaking to the crowdPhoto of Aparna talking to some Ward 1 residents in the pews of All SoulsPhoto of people sitting in the pews raising their hands at the end of the listening session
082 0
Aparna Raj @aparnafordc.bsky.social · 02/09/2026
Buwa is close with Mayor Bowser and is notorious for having buildings with terrible conditions. Glad to see another pro-tenant suit from the AG and for an eventual end to this pay to play dynamic when our new Mayor takes office. Housing should meet people’s needs, not serve as a profit scheme.
0122 0
Aparna Raj @aparnafordc.bsky.social · 25/08/2026
Thankfully, Ward 1 (and DC in general) have so many incredible local cafes that it is incredibly easy to respect the boycott. Solidarity with the workers! No contract, no coffee ✊🏾
0246 0
Aparna Raj @aparnafordc.bsky.social · 24/08/2026
Happy first day of school DC! 📚 Supporting our youth means supporting them all year: community schools, after school programs & third spaces, nurses & counselors, quick facilities repairs, economic stability, and so much more. That’s what I’ll fight for as Ward 1 Councilmember.
070 0
Reposted by Aparna Raj
Chris Roell.bsky.social @chrisroell.bsky.social · 21/08/2026
Thank you, @aparnafordc.bsky.social and @fedworkersunited.bsky.social for your support!
032 0
Reposted by Aparna Raj
Olúfẹ́mi O. Táíwò @olufemiotaiwo.bsky.social · 19/08/2026
"The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) had previously denied involvement in the January 2024 killing, saying months later that a preliminary investigation found its forces were “not present near the vehicle or within firing range” of the vehicle." www.cnn.com/2026/08/19/m...
cnn.com
Israeli military admits for first time to firing on car carrying 5-year-old Hind Rajab, opens criminal probe | CNN
The Israeli military acknowledged for the first time on Wednesday that it opened fire on the vehicle carrying 5-year-old Hind Rajab in Gaza and said it had opened a criminal investigation into the 202...
15422169 0
Aparna Raj @aparnafordc.bsky.social · 19/08/2026
Thank you to Sunrise on the Hill for having me on last week to talk about DC living under Trump’s occupation for one year. One year of armed troops walking our streets while federal agents disappear our neighbors. But we continue to organize and protect each other.
070 0
Aparna Raj @aparnafordc.bsky.social · 17/08/2026
This is why we call it an occupation. Even if it seems like the National Guard "aren't doing anything," them simply being here, as an armed militarized presence, is meant to intimidate us and squash dissent, especially at the same time other federal agents are disappearing neighbors.
094 0
Aparna Raj @aparnafordc.bsky.social · 17/08/2026
HUGE news. Malcolm X Park has been sorely missed by community members and organizers. Excited to have the heart of Ward 1 back for all the picnics, teach-ins, clothing swaps, protests, and more to come!
0103 0
Aparna Raj @aparnafordc.bsky.social · 13/08/2026
The Justice Department of one of the world's worst criminals has no standing to talk about public safety, or quite frankly, anything. Just wasting money that could go to providing people with food assistance or health care or housing to instead have armed troops intimidate their own citizens.
040 0
Aparna Raj @aparnafordc.bsky.social · 11/08/2026
Durante el último año, la gente de DC ha vivido bajo ocupación federal. Pero también hemos visto el verdadero DC, donde la solidaridad prevalece sobre el miedo, el valor sobre la sumisión y la acción colectiva sobre el silencio. Estatus de estado ya. Libertad para DC ✊🏾
"Estatus de estado para DC ya.""Durante el último año, los habitantes de Washington han vivido bajo ocupación federal. Mientras convivimos con la realidad cotidiana de tropas armadas en nuestras calles, también hemos visto cómo agentes federales detienen a nuestros vecinos, despidos masivos de trabajadores federales y esfuerzos para criminalizar a los jóvenes negros y de piel morena.

Pero también hemos visto el verdadero DC: vecinos que se protegen entre sí, voluntarios que acompañan a los niños a la escuela y activistas que se movilizan para luchar contra la represión política. En todo el Distrito, la gente ha elegido la solidaridad por encima del miedo, el valor por encima de la sumisión y la acción colectiva por encima del silencio.

Por nuestra seguridad, por la democracia y por nuestra economía, necesitamos el derecho a gobernarnos.

Estatus de estado ya. Libertad para DC ✊🏾"
020 0
Aparna Raj @aparnafordc.bsky.social · 11/08/2026
For the past year, Washingtonians have lived under federal occupation. But in this time we’ve also seen the real DC: one of solidarity over fear, courage over compliance, and collective action over silence. Statehood now. Free DC ✊🏾
Graphic that reads "DC Statehood now."Graphic that reads "
For the past year, Washingtonians have lived under federal occupation. As we live with the daily reality of armed troops on our streets, we’ve also seen federal agents detain our neighbors, mass layoffs of federal workers, and efforts to criminalize Black and brown youth.

But we've also seen the real DC: neighbors protecting neighbors, volunteers walking kids to school, and organizers showing up and fighting back against political repression. Across the District, people have chosen solidarity over fear, courage over compliance, and collective action over silence.

For our safety, for democracy, and for our economy, we need the right to govern ourselves.

Statehood now. Free DC ✊🏾"
1152 0
Aparna Raj @aparnafordc.bsky.social · 10/08/2026
¡Volvemos a reunir a la banda!⚡️ Faltan 86 días para las elecciones generales, ¡y queremos oír de ti! Por eso estamos lanzando la gira “Zona 1 para todos.” Ven a conocerme, hacerme preguntas y compartir tus ideas sobre la Zona! Confirma tu asistencia: www.mobilize.us/aparnafordc/
La Gira Zona Uno Para Todos; 
14 Septiembre - U Street, Shaw, LeDroit Park
28 Septiembre - Park View & Pleasant Plains
5 Octubre - Columbia Heights
19 Octubre - Mount Pleasant
26 Octubre - Adams Morgan
000 0
Aparna Raj @aparnafordc.bsky.social · 10/08/2026
We’re getting the band back together! ⚡️ The general election is in 86 days, and we want to hear from you! That’s why we’re launching the Ward One for All Tour. Come meet me, ask any questions, and share thoughts about the Ward! RSVP: www.mobilize.us/aparnafordc/
Graphic with the Ward 1 for All tour, which includes dates for each of the events;
September 14 - U Street, Shaw, LeDroit Park
September 28 - Park View & Pleasant Plains
October 5 - Columbia Heights
October 19 - Mount Pleasant
October 26 - Adams Morgan
151 0
Aparna Raj @aparnafordc.bsky.social · 06/08/2026
When I say we can fight for a better DC for all, I mean all. During this slow period before the general, I’m extremely fortunate to be able to attend an immersive Spanish school in Guatemala for the month of August to better connect with my Spanish-speaking neighbors in Ward 1!
0132 0
Aparna Raj @aparnafordc.bsky.social · 05/08/2026
We’re in a cost of living crisis- we need to elect more union members!
0205 0
Aparna Raj @aparnafordc.bsky.social · 31/07/2026
Back to school is coming up! 🎒☀️ Was excited to join staff and parents at Cleveland Elementary, as well as some community and gov’t partners for a walkthrough, to meet the new principal and talk about programming, facilities, and safety.
Photo of Aparna and a group of parents, staff, and government reps standing outside Cleveland Elementary School Photo of three people standing across the street from the UNCF building and Shaw metro Photo of a group of people standing outside Compass Coffee and Cracked Eggery
010 0
Aparna Raj @aparnafordc.bsky.social · 22/07/2026
Corporate influence on politics erodes democracy and makes life less affordable. From pharmaceutical companies fighting universal healthcare, to oil & gas corps fueling the climate crisis, to DoorDash now trying to end DC autonomy. It's working people vs the oligarchy.
0176 0
Aparna Raj @aparnafordc.bsky.social · 21/07/2026
Locally, they’ve been really active in campaigns and budget advocacy!
000 0
Aparna Raj @aparnafordc.bsky.social · 21/07/2026
Had a great time chatting with folks at this weekend’s @dcdemocrats.bsky.social Unity Breakfast! Voters have made it clear that they want a Democratic Party that fights for working people over corporations and the wealthy, and I’m excited for us to be united in that vision. ✊🏾
Photo of Aparna and Janeese Lewis George smiling at the camera at the Unity Breakfast Photo of Aparna talking to an attendee at the breakfast Photo of Aparna talking to Ricardo, an attendee at the breakfast Photo of Aparna and some AFGE leaders standing and smiling at the camera
180 0
Aparna Raj @aparnafordc.bsky.social · 18/07/2026
Congratulations @elissasilverman.bsky.social on officially being sworn in to Council! I’m excited for this progressive wave and to work together next year to make DC more affordable, give workers more power, and make the government work for all of us, not just the wealthy few.
1181 0
Aparna Raj @aparnafordc.bsky.social · 16/07/2026
Johan Sebastián Guerrero and Lorenzo Salgado Araujo should be alive today. Tonight, I joined a vigil for in their honor in Columbia Heights. Abolish ICE.
Photo from above of an ofrenda for Johan and LorenzoPhoto of Aparna speaking into an microphone at the vigil Photo of a woman holding a banner that reads “everybody vs ICE” with a crowd of people behind them Photo of a large crowd of people in the plaza with a speaker in the center
0163 0