Shepard Wins Brazilian Policy Institute Endorsement In State Rep Race

FRAMINGHAM, MA - The Brazilian Policy Institute on Friday announced its endorsement of former Framingham City Councilor Margareth Shepard or the 6th Middlesex District in the House of Representatives race.

“It is a great honor to be endorsed by the Brazilian Policy Center, an organization focused on workplace protections, immigrant rights and health equity," Shepard said on Friday. "Lenita Reason, BPC's director, was a vital partner and advocate for the recently passed 'Work & Family Mobility Act,' and I look forward to further advancing our shared values with them on Beacon Hill.”

The "Work and Family Mobility Act" passed the Senate in a 32-8 vote yesterday, overriding Gov. Charlie Baker's veto. It will allow immigrants without legal status in Massachusetts the opportunity to seek driver's licenses. The law will take effect in July 2023.

Shepard, a Democrat, is a Brazilian-American who has lived and operated a business, Golden Cleaners, in Framingham for three decades. She also is a former commissioner on the MetroWest Commission on the Status of Women.

The 6th Middlesex district became a majority minority district after redistricting took place earlier this year.

"Margareth Shepard has dedicated her life to motivate, educate and prepare Brazilians and other immigrants to actively participate in the civic life of their communities," the Brazilian Policy Institute said in a statement. "She believes that these often-marginalized constituencies can play an important role and help to influence the Legislature to support laws and policies that will empower individuals and communities across Massachusetts."

The organization noted that, as a two-term Framingham City Council member, Shepard worked collaboratively with community groups and other elected officials to support the legislation's passage, which would enable all qualified state residents to apply for a standard Massachusetts driver’s license, regardless of immigrant status.

"She employs her deep knowledge, steadfast passion, and diverse life experiences to successfully advocate to improve the lives of area residents," according to the statement. "As state representative, Margareth will bring greater political inclusiveness and participation to the democratic process. She will be a political force at the local and state levels."