Ihssane was born in Morocco to two hard-working parents. Her father was a public school teacher who grew up selling shoes. Her mother had left elementary school to help on the farm. Drought years were difficult, but her family spirit and strong community kept food on the table.

Throughout her childhood, Ihssane witnessed and survived abuse that sparked a lifelong quest for justice. At a young age, she dreamed of a land of liberty and safety. She believed this land was America. Upon arriving in America Ihssane learned that this dream was out of reach for the vast majority. From struggling with co-pays to facing discrimination when searching for a home of her own, she lived the pain of the most vulnerable as we seek a life with dignity.

Ihssane went on to become a financial regulator on Wall Street to hold the wealthy and powerful accountable. It became clear to her that the American Dream was not just out of reach, it was being stolen from the majority of Americans. 

Ihssane now stands with indigenous people protecting clean water and air against corporate greed. She stands with parents who dream of an education that takes their children from storytime to the stars. She stands with our immigrant friends and neighbors because the separation of families is not only happening at the border. It is time to make America a true democracy and put the power into the hands of the people.