Leah Li

Legislative Aide, U.S. Representative Derek Kilmer (WA-6)

About Leah

I was born and raised in Washington State (known as the “other Washington” around here, and as the “better Washington” in my office) and moved to Washington, D.C. after graduating, where I started working in Representative Kilmer’s office that fall. Since then, I have worked as a staff assistant, legislative correspondent, and now as a legislative aide. I always say that this was the best job out of college I could have asked for, and I love that I can stay connected with my home district — even when I’m on the other side of the country.

What inspired you to get involved in public service?

By complete accident. I took a global health class in college, expecting to only learn about epidemiology, and my professor spent an entire lecture discussing how the health initiatives he was involved in simply would have had better outcomes under different political circumstances and leadership. It made me question what I wanted to dedicate my time studying in school, and recognize how a lot of the subjects I was initially interested in — including science and technology — could be amplified through policy for greater social good. It also helped me realize how policy touches every industry, and every life, in some way. Needless to say, I swiftly changed gears and have been lucky work alongside the team in Representative Kilmer’s office for the past 2 years.

Name one person you look up to and explain why.

Is it okay if I get a pass for saying both my mom and my dad? My parents are both first-generation immigrants, from China and South Korea, who came to the United States for greater opportunities. In addition to raising me and my brother, they have dedicated their careers to serving those around them — my dad as a professor and my mom as a caretaker for seniors.

What is one hope that you have for the future? Or what is one piece of advice that you would like to share?

I’m currently writing this from my apartment, where I’ve spent virtually all of my time this past week following social-distancing recommendations and staying inside. In a time marked by a global pandemic, and amid all of the heart-wrenching statistics we hear on the news about the lives impacted by this crisis, I can’t help but feel hopeful when I see acts of kindness and selflessness in my community — from people delivering groceries and necessities to those who can’t, to people who still check in on their elderly loved ones through nursing home windows and FaceTime calls, to the countless frontline workers who continue to provide essential care during this unprecedented time. These are all intentional acts of kindness and selflessness that build community, even when a lot of us are apart. I’d encourage people to keep following those instincts (and stop hoarding toilet paper/ignoring public health guidance!).