Diajah Ruffin Understands The Humanity In Politics
This interview was released on July 17, 2020.
What was the spark that made you pursue a career in politics?
I was trying to figure out what I could do to make an impact through leadership before I graduated from Western Michigan University. While in Spain, I had a revelation that I should go into politics through a dream that I had. I dreamed that I was running for office. I ended up connecting with State Representative Jewell Jones, and my career began from there.
Talk about how you felt when you became Treasurer for the 13th Congressional Democratic Party in Michigan?
The 13th Congressional Democratic Party is a local organization under Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib. When I was elected to be on the Congressional Board, I was excited and glad that people trusted me to be a part of the organization. The things that I have, and continue to learn center around the true meaning of politics, building relationships and serving the people.
Millennials, specifically black millennials, are putting pressure on elected officials to adhere to specific demands in the space of politics and society. Why do you think there’s been an uptick of concern and regard for politics amongst millennials?
We’re probably the first generation that’s extremely educated on political issues. Most of us have been to college, and if we didn’t attend college, we’re small business owners. We’re in a different time, and we’re living in a knowledgeable economy. With social media, we always know what’s going on in the world. We hold people accountable, and we’re not afraid to speak our minds. Now, we can’t cancel everybody, so it’s important to become the leaders we’re seeking out.
With the COVID-19 pandemic, protests centered around police brutality, and a crucial election season ahead of us, what does it mean to you as a young, black educated woman to run for Michigan State Representative, 10th State House?
I believe it’s no better time than now. We need more black women with powerful voices to speak on behalf of us. The old politics of yesteryear is done. Black Lives are starting to matter more than ever now, which gives us clearance to be our true, authentic selves without compromise. My slogan is, “We the people must be equal.” My slogan goes for every person in every sector. When I knock on these doors, white people are living in these same neighborhoods as I do, and they go through the same situations as me. We’re supposed to be equal on all fronts, so that’s what I plan on doing if elected for Michigan State Representative, 10th State House.
Talk about your organization, Black Women in Michigan Politics.
Michigan Senator Sylvia Santana started Black Women in Michigan Politics: A Non-Partisan Organization. As black women, we’re trailblazers, so we must learn how to embrace each other in an edifying way. This is what we do in our organization. In 2019 we had a luncheon that was very relaxed but informative, which was amazing to see. In addition, we need more black women in elected positions who’re going to mentor other young women so we can continue this process of “each one, teach one” moving forward.
