Sasha Ritzie-Hernandez

Sasha Ritzie-Hernandez is a dedicated educator, community organizer, and Executive Director of Somos Familia, an organization committed to empowering LGBTQ+ youth and their families. With over a decade of experience in education organizing, program design, and political advocacy, Sasha has been a relentless advocate for equity and inclusion in Oakland schools. Born in Oakland and raised in the heart of District 5, Sasha’s journey through the Oakland Unified School District (OUSD) as an undocumented, monolingual Spanish-speaking student shaped her deep understanding of the challenges faced by marginalized communities. Her lived experiences as an AfroIndigenous Latinx woman and LGBTQ+ leader provide her with a unique perspective on the needs of students and families in her district. Sasha has served in various leadership roles, including as Vice President of the East Bay Latine Young Democrats and a member of the Alameda County Language Advisory Committee. She has also been an active participant in OUSD for Palestine and Labor for Palestine, advocating for justice and human rights both locally and globally. In her current role as Executive Director of Somos Familia, Sasha leads initiatives focused on HIV prevention, direct support for trans men, and broader efforts to create safe, affirming spaces for LGBTQ+ youth and their families. Her commitment to public education, equity, and social justice drives her campaign for the Oakland School Board, where she aims to ensure college and career readiness for all students, achieve a sustainable balanced budget that reflects school site needs, and enhance campus safety and culture. Sasha is proud to be endorsed by the LGBTQ+ Victory Fund and is committed to fighting for a brighter, more inclusive future for all residents of District 5.