A Bold Leader - Guest Writer Maya Crawford Peacock

I’ll get right to the point - I’m supporting Ethan Knight for District Attorney. This race will determine the future of the criminal justice system and Ethan is the strong leader we need to steer the ship. 

I have known Ethan for several years through connections at the Multnomah Bar Association and our work trying to increase resources for civil legal aid. He has a deep commitment to the justice system and how the role of the District Attorney is part of a larger, interconnected system that can affect real change. 

Our community is in crisis – too many are struggling to afford a roof over their head, those with mental health issues or addiction are lacking adequate support, and a rhetoric of hate has become commonplace. 

My wife and I worry every day about our place in this world as the rise of right wing extremism continues to fuel racism and homophobia. My wife is conscious every day that as a person of color she is at risk, and even more aware of the risk to our five year old daughter as she is raised in an LGBT family. 

As a lawyer, a wife, a mother, a member of our community, I am confident in Ethan’s ability to reform those parts of our justice system which need reforming, and to work tirelessly to provide resources outside prosecution for those who need help, not jail. 

Ethan’s experience is what makes him the best choice here – you cannot change a system you do not know. Rather than waste precious time attempting grandiose fixes that may never permeate our system, Ethan is ready to start real change on day one.

I want a DA who knows how the system currently operates, acknowledges its flaws, and does everything in their power to make changes. That’s why I’m voting for Ethan. 

Please join me in supporting Ethan and help elect a leader who is bold, strategic, and willing and able to engage people from across all sectors, all cultures, all walks of life to solve problems.