Washington, D.C. — The Iranian American Political Action Committee (IAPAC), the bipartisan political action committee affiliated with the Public Affairs Alliance of Iranian Americans (PAAIA), is proud to endorse Soheila Bana for re-election to the Richmond City Council representing District 4 in Richmond, California.  

First elected in 2022, Councilmember Bana has built a strong record focused on public safety, community resilience, and improving the quality of life for residents. A longtime community leader, she has worked to elevate wildfire preparedness, strengthen regional coordination on emergency response, and improve transparency and responsiveness at City Hall. Prior to serving on the Council, Bana held several public service roles, including President and Trustee of the Contra Costa Mosquito and Vector Control District Board and Commissioner on the Richmond Parks and Recreation Commission, and currently serves as Director at CivicWell. She holds a Ph.D., M.S., and B.S. in Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences from the University of California, Berkeley. 

During her time in office, Bana has prioritized wildfire preparedness and public safety, particularly for residents in high-risk areas of the East Bay Hills. She helped make wildfire preparedness a strategic city priority, launched Richmond’s first evacuation drills, expanded vegetation management efforts, and strengthened regional collaboration on fire safety. Beyond this, she has supported initiatives to reduce gun violence, established the Richmond Task Force to End Gender-Based Violence, and worked to improve everyday city services—from street lighting and road repairs to responsiveness from city agencies. She has also championed economic opportunity by supporting small businesses, promoting fair wages and union labor, and advancing inclusive, community-centered development policies.  

Interview with Soheila Bana 

Why are you seeking re-election to the Richmond City Council? 

“After three years of building strong working relationships with colleagues, city administrators, businesses, and community organizations, I believe we are now in a strong position to build on the progress we have made. My focus is on strengthening regional partnerships to address major challenges such as wildfire safety, housing and homelessness, and public safety. These issues require collaboration beyond city boundaries, and a second term will allow me to continue building those partnerships and delivering results for our community.” 

What distinguishes you from other candidates in this race? 

“Residents know me as someone who is responsive, works hard for the community, and achieves results. I have prioritized wildfire preparedness—the most critical issue facing my district—and worked to bring it to the forefront of the city’s strategic agenda. I have also built strong relationships with labor organizations and community groups, and I am proud of the broad coalition of support that continues to grow around our campaign.” 

What are some of your key accomplishments in office? 

“One of my proudest accomplishments has been strengthening wildfire preparedness in Richmond. We launched the city’s first evacuation drills, improved warning systems, and expanded vegetation management efforts. I also helped establish regional collaborations among cities and fire safety organizations across the East Bay Hills. 

In addition, I have worked to strengthen public safety through community partnerships, support initiatives addressing gender-based violence, and improve transparency and accountability at City Hall. At the same time, I have focused on quality-of-life issues that matter to residents—from street repairs to transportation improvements.” 

How have you engaged with the Iranian American community in your district? 

“I worked to establish Richmond’s first public Nowruz celebration, organized with the nonprofit Diaspora Arts Connection and supported by local businesses. The event brings together members of the Iranian American community and the broader public to celebrate Persian culture and heritage. I have also encouraged Iranian Americans to become more involved in civic life and even consider running for public office themselves.” 

What role can Iranian Americans play in your campaign and in public life more broadly? 

“Iranian Americans have achieved tremendous success in many professional fields, but it is important that our community also have a voice in public policy and governance. Political engagement begins locally. I hope that my campaign encourages Iranian Americans to participate in civic life, volunteer, donate, and consider pursuing public service themselves.” 

Encouraging Iranian American Civic Engagement 

The Iranian American Political Action Committee (IAPAC) is proud to support Iranian Americans and allies who are committed to public service and civic leadership. Through endorsements and engagement, IAPAC works to encourage Iranian Americans to participate in the democratic process and to support candidates who demonstrate leadership and dedication to their communities. 

IAPAC congratulates Soheila Bana on her continued public service and looks forward to supporting her campaign for re-election to the Richmond City Council.