Assemblymember Anamarie Ávila Farías (D-Martinez) has become a prominent figure in California politics, known for her dedication to housing and education. Her journey from a young girl in Martinez to a state legislator is a testament to her resilience and commitment to public service.
Born to Mexican immigrant grandparents who came to California through the Bracero Program Ávila Farías experienced firsthand the challenges of growing up in a low-income family. After her father’s passing when she was just three years old, she was raised by her single mother, who faced significant barriers due to limited education and language.
Early Influences and Education
Ávila Farías’ early experiences shaped her perspective on the importance of education and affordable housing. She became the first in her family to graduate from college, earning degrees in business administration and information technology from the University of San Francisco.
Her educational journey was driven by a desire to improve her family’s circumstances. “My mom’s in this situation because she does not have an education to advance and pull herself out of poverty,” Ávila Farías said. This motivation led her to pursue a career in housing and community development, where she could make a tangible difference.
A Career in Housing and Community Development
Ávila Farías’ professional journey began with an internship at the Martinez Housing Authority where she witnessed the impact of poverty and homelessness. This experience inspired her to help build systems that her own family had once relied on. She played a crucial role in launching some of Contra Costa County’s first homeless shelters, funded by the federal McKinney Act.
Her work in housing policy expanded when she joined then-Mayor Willie Brown‘s Housing and Community Development Department in San Francisco. Under then-Mayor Gavin Newsom she continued her work in affordable housing financing and development. In 2015, Governor Jerry Brown appointed her to the California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA) board, where she helped shape statewide housing finance and homeownership initiatives.
The Path to Political Office
Ávila Farías’ political career began with her election to the Martinez City Council in 2012, making her the first Latina to hold the position. Her journey to office was not without challenges, including a defeat in her 2016 bid for the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors. Despite these setbacks, she remained committed to public service.
After her defeat, Ávila Farías focused on community advocacy, helping local governments comply with the California voting rights Act. She played a key role in transitioning several cities in Contra Costa County to district-based elections, expanding representation and ensuring that all voices were heard.
Impact in the California Legislature
Since joining the California Legislature, Ávila Farías has brought a wealth of experience to Sacramento. Her colleagues praise her collaborative approach and deep understanding of housing and community development issues. Assemblymember Lori Wilson (D-Suisun City) noted that Ávila Farías’ background in both local and state government gives her a unique perspective.
“She is someone who has experience not just as a local government leader but also in state government,” Wilson said. “She came to the Legislature with a full career.” This experience is reflected in how Ávila Farías approaches legislation, engaging colleagues broadly and focusing on building consensus.
Assemblymember Patrick Ahrens (D-Sunnyvale), who serves with Ávila Farías in the bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus highlighted her commitment to problem-solving over partisanship. “She’s been a really dependable colleague,” Ahrens said. “She’s really trying to focus on solutions instead of partisanship.”
For Ávila Farías, her priorities remain rooted in the experiences that first introduced her to public service. “I think it’s making sure that Sacramento does not change who I am,” she said. “And to have the political courage to speak in spaces that make people uncomfortable.”
Her journey is a reminder of the power of perseverance and the importance of representation in politics. As she continues to advocate for affordable housing and education, Ávila Farías remains a beacon of hope for many in California.
