2026 Advocate of the Year Award - Senator Susan Rubio

Susan Rubio: What inspired me to get involved with the Family Violence Appellate Project is simple. We have the same shared values and mission. As a survivor of domestic violence, I know how difficult it is to navigate such a complex system, especially when you're in trauma. I know because I lived it. And I'm honored to partner with an organization that understands that the system is somewhat broken, that we need a lot of work to ensure that the system is responsive to victims, especially those that lack resources and an understanding of the legal system. I'm so thankful to partner with an organization that I already respect, and that we share in our mission and goals to ensure that victims feel seen, they feel heard, and that they know that we are not going to stop fighting until they get justice.

Susan Rubio: In the work that I do, there's so many moments that are rewarding. But I have to share that every time that I get stopped in the street by a victim, someone I don't know who thanks me for saving their life or giving them the courage to walk away from an abusive relationship is incredibly rewarding. I get letters often just again sharing how thankful they are for any one of my policies that in one way or another has inspired them not only to stay safe, but also do similar work. So I will continue to look forward to all the letters and all the notes that I get that tell me that all the hours that I put in, all the late nights, it's worth doing.

Susan Rubio: I'm incredibly humbled to receive this award from the Family Violence Appellate Project. Again, this is an organization that I respect. This is an organization that I know does incredible work to help victims and to be honored and recognized only inspires me further to continue to do the work, to continue to meet with victims. I know there's a lot of heavy stories that I have to take in in order to do good work, but it's all worth it, and this award means so much to me.