“I'm a proud Dominican American. My folks always taught me that it's important to keep the ladder down and that to whom much is given, much is expected. That's why I have pursued a career in public service. I can't think of a better way to give back what this nation gave to us than to try to make sure that opportunity exists for everyone.”

Tom Perez is a former U.S. Secretary of Labor and chair of the Democratic National Committee. He is recognized for his advocacy on workers’ rights and labor policy, shaping national conversations on economic fairness and union representation. His political career spans decades of progressive leadership in both government and party organizing.