NEW YORK — New Hampshire State Rep. Luz Bay, a Filipino American immigrant and Democrat from Dover, delivered a powerful speech on the House floor this week after a Republican colleague questioned her right to serve in the legislature following her commemoration of Philippine Independence Day.

Bay, who represents Strafford County District 21, recounted the incident in remarks that have since gone viral on social media.

“A week ago, I spoke at this very podium about the Independence Day celebration of my home country, the Philippines,” Bay said.

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“Shortly after my speech, I was asked how someone who calls the Philippines my home country is allowed to serve in this House. I want to respond, not just for myself, but for the thousands of immigrants, new Americans and children of immigrants who contribute every day to the strength of this state and this country,” she sad in a video clip posted by the podcast “This Filipino American Life” on Instagram.

New Hampshire State Rep. Luz Bay | Photo from Luz Bay, NH State Representative/Facebook

“Let me say it clearly: I am here because I belong here.”

Bay emphasized her legitimacy as an elected official and her pride in her heritage.

“My constituents in Strafford County District 21 elected me under the same laws, with the same legitimacy, as anyone in this room,” Bay said. “My birthplace does not make me less American. My accent does not disqualify me from public service. And my identity as [a] Filipino American does not make me aghast.”

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She reminded colleagues of the nation’s immigrant roots, stating, “Unless you are Indigenous to this land, unless your ancestors walked here before borders, before colonization, before the concept of immigration even existed, you too are descended from immigrants. Some of our families came centuries ago, others came fleeing war, poverty, persecution, or simply searching for the promise that America holds. My story is part of that American story. It is not the footnote. It is a verse in the song of this nation.”

Bay concluded her remarks with a declaration of belonging and resolve.

“To question my right to be here is to misunderstand what makes America what it is – a place where democracy is enriched by diversity, where freedom means the opportunity to serve, and where strength lies in our shared commitment to justice, not in the sameness of our origins. I represent my district with pride. I serve this state with integrity, and I stand in this chamber with the full rights and responsibilities that come with my being an American. This is my home. This is my country, and I’m not going anywhere.”

Fil-Am New Hampshire Rep. Luz Bay attends the APAICS 31st Gala last month in Washington, D.C. Photo from Luz Bay, NH State Representative/Facebook

The New Hampshire House Democratic Caucus condemned the remark and voiced strong support for Bay. 

In a statement reflecting the party’s platform, the caucus said, “New Hampshire Democrats believe in the rights of all people to thrive in all areas of their lives. Immigration is an opportunity for growth. We welcome immigrants from all countries and backgrounds. We support diversity, equity, and inclusion in all settings, and object to any attempts to undermine the participation of immigrants in our democracy”.

The Filipino Young Leaders Program (FYLPRO), a national network of Filipino American leaders, also expressed support for Bay. 

“We stand with Rep. Luz Bay and all Filipino Americans who serve their communities with integrity and pride. Incidents like these remind us of the ongoing challenges immigrants and minorities face, but also of the importance of representation and resilience in public service,” said FYLPRO President Leezel Tanglao.

Luz Bay takes a selfie with California Gov. Gavin Newsom. Photo from Luz Bay, NH State Representative/Facebook

“FYLPRO remains committed to supporting leaders who bridge cultures and advance equity in government.”

Community advocates and local leaders echoed these sentiments, highlighting the challenges immigrant and minority lawmakers face and the need for representation. Bay’s speech quickly gained traction on social media, with many calling it a powerful statement against xenophobia.

Bay, who has served in the New Hampshire House of Representatives since December 2022, is a three-time cancer survivor and a veteran of 13 marathons.

She holds a Ph.D. in educational measurement and statistics from Southern Illinois University Carbondale and has spent nearly three decades as a psychometrician, including leadership roles in national research organizations. Bay lives in Dover with her husband and two children.

Bay was re-elected to the New Hampshire House of Representatives, representing Strafford 21, in the November 2024 general election. Her current term ends Dec. 2, 2026.

As of this writing, the New Hampshire Republican Party has not issued a formal statement regarding the incident. Several Republican lawmakers have privately expressed regret over the remark, according to local media reports.