Activist Ali Ramos has announced her plans to seek a seat on the Amarillo City Council in 2021.

Ramos announced her campaign on Monday through a press release, highlighting her passion for “transparency and authenticity in our local governmental positions.”

“My hopes in becoming a city council person are to represent the city at large,” Ramos said. “I also want to find ways to bring more job opportunities to Amarillo, especially those in the tech industry. This type of business could put Amarillo on the path for innovation and advance.”

Ramos went on to say her personal experiences will provide a unique perspective on the City Council.

“When you first see me, you’ll immediately notice that I’m disabled,” Ramos said. “Why is this important? Well, in all honesty, it isn’t. It does however offer me a perspective that many others aren’t able to relate to. I know what it’s like to struggle and to be oppressed. I understand the plea of the citizens when all they want is to be heard. I’m here to know your story. Although I am not able to completely relate to all hardships, my ears are open and my heart aches for anyone that experience unwavering difficulties.”

Ramos’ work history includes her recent position as a remote faculty member for the Columbia School of Social Work and her experience as a full-time graphic designer and illustrator. Ramos holds a master’s degree in social work.

Regarding the issues central to her campaign, Ramos supports adding two additional seats to the City Council for at-large positions, while transitioning all remaining seats on the City Council to single-member district positions. Ramos also supports the movement to change Amarillo’s city election dates to November of even-numbered years to correspond with presidential and gubernatorial elections.

At this point, it is unclear which seat Ramos plans to seek on the City Council. Ramos joins the only announced candidate for a City Council seat — incumbent Place 4 Council member Howard Smith — on the campaign trail.

Candidates can begin filing for places on the ballot on January 12, 2021. Election Day is May 1, 2021.