Tena Yistelin,

A special election is being held today, February 3rd, in Fairfax County for Chair of the Fairfax County Board of Election. In 2008, you were a part of a broad coalition that included tens of thousands of Ethiopian-Americans who cast their vote for Barack Obama—many for the first time. Our community was recognized for the contributions we have and continue to make in America and for the hard work that was performed by countless Ethiopians in multiple states to organize and get people involved in the political process.

Involvement in the political process is not a privilege that we can take lightly nor is it a right that we can participate in solely during the Presidential elections every four years. Issues that directly impact our community are decided every day on local levels. It is for this reason that we are reaching out to you today. The Board of Elections is a vital component of the electoral process; the next Chair of the Board of Elections can have a big impact on how elections are conducted in Fairfax County.

Sharon Bulova is a committed public servant who has dedicated countless hours to meeting the needs of her constituents. Bulova has led on issues that impact her community, regularly engaging her constituents in Community Dialog Series and Task Force. Bulova has been endorsed by Senator Mark Warner, Senator Jim Webb, and Governor Kaine and countless other elected officers, community organizations.

Our continued involvement in the political process is essential; we encourage everyone to vote. We believe that Sharon Bulova, through her experience and her dedication to public service, will be a great Chair of the Fairfax County Board of Elections.

For more information about Sharon Bulova, go to http://www.sharonbulova.com