Meet a Nasty Woman: 5 Questions with Alicia Crank
Meet Alicia Crank. Alicia is a Nasty Woman and a community leader working to eliminate racism and empower women. She was born and raised in Michigan, spent her first 20 years of adulthood in Silicon Valley, and is currently enjoying her third act in the Pacific Northwest. Alicia is currently running for city council in her Washington community and her story will make you ask yourself, why not me? Learn more about this road tripper, risk-taker, and wine lover in our interview.
What makes you a Nasty Woman?
I have never “looked the part”, whether it was as an institutional/corporate banker, an executive director of a nonprofit in Silicon Valley or as a corporate fundraiser for a regional nonprofit. Even being the only person that looks like me in the room, I remain fearless in exceeding goals and serving my community. I am continuing this mindset in pursuing elected office.
Share an experience that shaped your views or helped get you involved in activism.
During a local election season, while living in a small town in Silicon Valley in 2006, I saw that I could not relate to anyone that was running for local office. I threw my hat in the ring, hoping someone I could relate to but was more ‘experienced’ would step in so I could step out. Instead, those persons encouraged me to go for it. Though I did not win the election, I learned so much more about who I am and what I am capable of. I learned that I should not downplay what I can contribute because I look or act differently than the others in those roles. It was more of a benefit than a hindrance. I have held on to that ever since.
What advice do you have for people who want to help enact change and push progress but don’t know how to get involved?
Take a topic you are interested in, push past your comfort zone and apply for an appointment to a group centered around it. For example, I had an interest in green buildings/practices and land use, and I decided to apply for a seat on the city’s Planning Board. Not many women tend to be on those types of boards, let alone persons of color. Seek out involvement in places that are unrepresented that you know you will add value to.
If you could look into the future, 10 years from now, and see that real progress has been made, what does that look like to you?
More women in leadership across the board: politics, business, nonprofit and community. More diversity and representation: race, gender, socio-economic, accessibility, and ideology. Significant advances in equity and equal pay. Oh, and the election of our second female president!
Share with us a favorite wine moment, memory, or pairing.
I was late to the wine-drinking world. A good friend took me to her favorite winery in Healdsburg, CA and introduced me to the most delicious Cab Franc. I’ve been hooked on 100% Cab Franc since. On a warm, sunny day, I love a nice Sangiovese rose. Summer evenings call for a glass of Pantsuit Pinot Noir.
Support Alicia’s work and campaign.
I both work for and support YWCA Seattle | King | Snohomish. The work the organization does in eliminating racism and empowering women through their housing, health, and economic empowerment programs.
I am also running for Edmonds City Council! Learn more about Alicia and how to support her campaign here.
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