WASHINGTON, D.C.- Today, Congresswoman Nanette Barragán (CA-44) announced her guest for the State of the Union on February 7, 2023 will be Olivia Julianna. A strong leader in the fight for abortion rights, Olivia is a young Latina activist from Texas. Olivia works as a political strategist with Gen Z for Change to raise awareness and fundraise for key political issues.
“I invited Olivia to be my guest at the State of the Union because she is a strong Latina leader who represents the next generation,” said Rep. Barragán. “She is one of millions across the country who have faced challenges due to the color of their skin or how they identify. But she has turned these challenges into motivation. Olivia is a leading activist on issues that impact people at home and across the country, including abortion rights, LGBTQ+ issues, and critical race theory. Her activism is an example of young people of color in America whose voices matter and make a difference.
“Olivia’s story is far too common and highlights the many struggles that people of color and the LGBTQ+ community can face in this country. Now, she fights with Gen-Z for Change to bring attention to these issues and build a more equal America for all. She is an inspiration to young people everywhere. I am proud to have her join me at the State of the Union next week.”
“I was raised in rural Texas, where every facet of my identity was mocked, ridiculed, and politicized,” said Olivia. “Now as a young adult, I have grown fiercely proud of my identities. Being an openly queer Latina abortion rights activist to me is an honor I take very seriously. As a Texan, I know that my roots are strong and progressive despite what bad-faith political actors may choose to portray about my beautiful home state. Roe v. Wade was argued and solidified by two young Texas women, Sarah Weddington and Linda Coffee – Coffee herself being a member of the LGBTQ+ community. Their spirit and determination lives within the heart of Texas women today, and I refuse to allow it to go unutilized.
“I am thrilled and honored to be attending the State of the Union, as I love my state and my country. This is why I find it crucial to remind each and every American that Texas, and our country as a whole, has millions of people like myself who will not stop fighting until the rights and liberties outlined in our Constitution are protected and expanded to every individual for the foreseeable future. The halls of Congress belong to the people, and I find it greatly important to remind elected officials of that fact. I am eternally grateful to Congresswoman Nanette Barragán for this opportunity, and I hope to bring a Gen-Z-Texas style to the chamber.”
Julianna made headlines last summer when she sparred over Twitter with Representative Matt Gaetz of Florida, after Gaetz made horrific and demeaning comments about her body while speaking at a pro-life rally. After the comments, Julianna took to social media to raise money for abortion access in Gaetz’s name, raising more than $2 million in less than a week.