Luz Bay, a Democrat representing Strafford 21 in the New Hampshire House of Representatives, assumed office on December 7, 2022, and is serving a term through December 2, 2026. Born in the Philippines and now residing in Dover, New Hampshire, Bay was re-elected in the November 5, 2024 general election.
DOVER, NEW HAMPSHIRE – Filipino American state legislator Luz Bay, who represents Strafford District 21 in the New Hampshire House of Representatives, says a Republican colleague told her to “go home” to the Philippines following her remarks commemorating Philippine Independence Day.
The incident occurred after Bay, a Democrat, addressed the House on June 12 in recognition of Philippine Independence Day. In her speech, she referred to the Philippines as her “home country”—a phrase that allegedly drew criticism from another lawmaker who questioned her right to serve.
“Shortly after my speech, I was asked how someone who calls the Philippines their home country is allowed to serve in this House,” Bay said in a follow-up floor statement. “Let me say it clearly: I am here because I belong here.”
Bay’s Response Goes Viral
Bay’s calm yet firm response has since gone viral, resonating widely across social media.
“My birthplace does not make me less American. My accent does not disqualify me from public service,” she said. “Unless you are Indigenous to this land, you too are descended from immigrants. My story is part of the American story. It is not the footnote—it is a verse in the song of this nation.”
She concluded emphatically: “This is my home. This is my country. And I’m not going anywhere.”
Her remarks have drawn both statewide and national attention, with many praising her for standing firm in the face of xenophobia.
Democratic Caucus Signals Support
The New Hampshire House Democratic Caucus shared a video of Bay’s speech on its official Facebook page, writing:
“If you watch anything today, let it be this speech from Rep. Luz Bay (D-Dover). ‘My story is a verse in the song of America.’” #NHPolitics
While the post did not name the lawmaker or include a formal statement, it can be interpreted as a clear public show of support and affirmation of Bay’s place in the House.
Support from Filipino Americans
One commenter wrote: “Luz, that was an articulate and powerful response to the unjustified insult. We are honored to have you.”
Another added in Tagalog: “Luz, nakalulungkot na may mga racist na hindi nila alam kung saang lupalop sila nanggaling. Ipinagmamalaki ka namin.”
(“Luz, it’s sad that some racists don’t even know where they come from. We are proud of you.”)
Who Is Rep. Luz Bay?
Bay immigrated from the Philippines and later earned a Ph.D. in educational measurement and statistics. First elected in 2022 and re-elected in 2024, she is a three-time cancer survivor and an avid marathon runner. She lives in Dover with her husband and two children.
A REFLECTION OF THE TIMES
Bay’s experience highlights deeper tensions in America’s evolving conversation about identity, immigration, and belonging. While she was targeted for honoring her roots, advocates say her response reflects the growing confidence and visibility of Asian Americans in civic leadership.
Her story is not isolated—it’s part of a broader movement of immigrant voices rising in public service, challenging outdated narratives of patriotism and representation. In standing her ground, Bay gave voice to many who have felt unseen or questioned simply because of where they came from.
Name the Republican colleague who told Bay Luz to go home.
This isn’t a reflection of the times. People choose to immigrate to the US and become citizens out of a desire to be Americans. Keeping your culture is good, but expressing a divided political allegiance while serving in an elected capacity is atrocious behavior.