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 lawmaker Luz Bay, who represents Strafford District 21 in the New Hampshire House of Representatives, was told by a Republican colleague to “go home” to the Philippines following a speech she gave honoring Philippine Independence Day.
Bay, a Democrat, said the remark came after she delivered remarks at the State House on June 12, in recognition of Philippine Independence Day. In her speech, she referred to the Philippines as her “home country”—a reference that allegedly prompted a fellow legislator to question 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 told colleagues in a follow-up floor statement. “Let me say it clearly: I am here because I belong here.”
BAY’S SPEECH GOES VIRAL
Bay’s response has since gone viral on social media, with many praising her calm yet assertive defense of her identity and role in public service.
“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: “This is my home. This is my country. And I’m not going anywhere.”
BACKGROUND ON REP. LUZ BAY
The lawmaker, who immigrated from the Philippines and later earned a Ph.D. in educational measurement and statistics, has served in the New Hampshire House since 2022 and was re-elected in 2024. She is also a three-time cancer survivor and avid marathon runner. She lives in Dover with her husband and two children.
RESPONSES FROM LAWMAKERS AND COMMUNITY GROUPS
The New Hampshire House Democratic Caucus released a statement condemning the incident and reaffirming its support for immigrant communities. The Filipino Young Leaders Program (FYLPRO), a national nonprofit that supports young Filipino American professionals, also issued a statement backing Bay and emphasizing the importance of representation in government.
“Incidents like this remind us that while we have made progress, many still question the legitimacy of immigrants in leadership,” FYLPRO said in a statement. “Rep. Bay represents the resilience and excellence of Filipino Americans serving the public good.”
Bay has not identified the colleague who made the comment, and the New Hampshire Republican Party has not issued a public response as of press time.
STRONG SUPPORT FROM FILIPINO AMERICANS
The incident has drawn widespread attention from both the Filipino American community and national immigrant advocacy groups. Supporters have shared messages of solidarity, including posts in Tagalog expressing pride and encouragement.
One commenter wrote: “Luz, that was an articulate and powerful response to the unjustified insult. We are honored to have you.”
Another posted 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.”)
THE NATIONAL CONVERSATION
Bay’s experience underscores a broader national conversation about immigrant identity and participation in American politics. While she was targeted for her background, advocates say her response demonstrates the growing presence and confidence of Asian Americans in civic leadership.
Bay remains in office and has stated she will continue serving her constituents and advancing inclusive policies.
