Malden Resident Named 2021 Black Excellence On The Hill Honoree

MALDEN, MA — The Massachusetts Black and Latino Legislative Caucus named Malden resident Birukti Tsige a 2021 Black Excellence on the Hill honoree Friday. Tsige, a 2019 graduate of Malden High School, was nominated by state Rep. Steven Ultrino.

Tsige is currently in her second year at Harvard University. During her time at Malden High School, she organized her peers to advocate for racial justice in schools and founded the Malden Youth Civic Council.

"I am honored to be receiving this award, and thankful that my actions rise to this nomination for Black Excellence on the Hill," Tsige said in a statement. "My time in Malden and the community activists, teachers, organizers, and students I’ve met continue to inspire me. I hope to continue the fight for social justice, equitable education and creating civically engaged communities."

The Youth Civic Council coordinated efforts to register dozens of her fellow students to vote and organized events inviting candidates and elected officials to encourage students to get involved in local government.

"Since her time at Malden High, Birukti has been an outstanding leader in our community, working to empower and engage her peers, and uplift the voices of marginalized communities here in Malden," Ultrino said. "She's continued that work in college and I know she will bring that dedication to equity and inclusion with her as she begins her career. I'm proud to have been able to honor Birukti’s courage and commitment to justice with this nomination."