Astine Suleimanyan is a seasoned political strategist and government affairs professional with nearly two decades of experience championing workers’ rights, Armenian causes, and advancing forward-thinking policies in California and across the nation.
Her career began with the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) in Washington, D.C., where she worked on the groundbreaking Lily Ledbetter Fair Pay Act, paving the way for equity in the workplace. She went on to serve at SEIU International, leading campaigns to improve labor standards and ensure the dignity of work for countless Americans. In California, she has advocated for healthcare workers, school employees, educators, and nurses, shaping public policies that protect and empower those who serve their communities.
As Political Director for SEIU 121RN, Astine led statewide legislative efforts to strengthen workplace protections for nurses and healthcare workers. Most notably, she spearheaded the passage of AB 2975 (Secure Hospitals for All), a groundbreaking bill that requires metal detectors in all California hospitals to protect patients and healthcare workers. During her tenure, she was the only Armenian in a leadership position at a labor organization in the U.S., a testament to her trailblazing role in both the labor movement and Armenian representation in political advocacy. Her work blends lobbying, campaign organizing, and coalition-building, ensuring frontline workers’ voices are heard in the halls of power.
Astine has also played a significant role in advancing the Armenian community’s causes. In 2012, she led one of the largest mobilizations of Armenian voters in history, demonstrating her dedication to civic engagement and representation. She was also instrumental in passing a resolution at LAUSD, the largest school district in California and the second-largest in the nation, to close schools on April 24th in remembrance of Armenian Genocide Day. This historic achievement ensured that students and educators could properly observe and honor the memory of the 1.5 million Armenians who perished.
Her contributions have been widely recognized: in 2017, she was honored as a champion of the Armenian community at the Vardivar Festival in Los Angeles, and the Armenian National Committee acknowledged her instrumental work in integrating Armenian history into California public education.
Her leadership is defined by her unwavering dedication to equity, her ability to forge impactful alliances, and her passion for building a better future for all.
