Saliha Raïss: Advocate for Inclusive Cities and Social Justice
Introduction
Saliha Raïss is a prominent political figure and community advocate from Molenbeek-Saint-Jean in Brussels, Belgium. Deeply rooted in her neighborhood, she embodies commitment to social justice, affordable housing, inclusive education, and community empowerment. Over the years, she has emerged as a bridge-builder—uniting diverse cultural communities through her work as a municipal councillor and as deputy for various public offices. This essay explores her background, career trajectory, core values, and civic vision.
Early Life and Local Roots
Born and raised in the Quartier Maritime of Molenbeek-Saint-Jean, Saliha Raïss’s connection to her municipality is more than professional—it is personal. Ever since her childhood, she has known her neighborhood intimately: its people, its challenges, its pulse. This deep familiarity has steered her dedication to local governance and civic development. vooruit.brussels+1
Education and Path to Politics
Saliha pursued her higher education at the Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), where she studied political science. Equipped with an academic understanding of governance and public policy, she gradually ventured into politics and public service. Her academic foundation provided her with analytical tools to navigate the complex political landscape of Brussels and its communities. vooruit.brussels
Political Career and Civic Engagement
Municipal Councillor and Deputy Roles
Since 2018, Saliha has served as a municipal councillor in Molenbeek, where she has steadily expanded her impact. Eventually, she stepped into the role of deputy (échevine) with responsibilities that include:
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Public Works
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Municipal Property
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Dutch-language Education
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Dutch-language Childcare
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Territorial Development
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Mobility vooruit.brussels+1
Her portfolio spans essential aspects of community life, emphasizing both infrastructure and human development. As deputy, she aims to forge a city that provides equitable opportunities for all residents, regardless of background or financial means. vooruit.brussels
Roles in Broader Institutions
Beyond municipal responsibilities, Saliha has also held significant positions at regional and institutional levels:
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Worked at the one.brussels – Vooruit fraction in the Brussels Parliament until September 2023. vooruit.brussels
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Previously served as chief of staff to Vice-President Fouad Ahidar of the Brussels Parliament and worked in the cabinet of Johan Vande Lanotte. vooruit.brussels
These roles have enriched her experience in political strategy, governance, and policymaking, granting her insights into both local and regional dynamics.
Core Beliefs and Advocacy
Affordable Housing as Social Justice
Central to Saliha’s mission is affordable, quality housing. She firmly believes that dignified living conditions should be accessible to people across all income levels—an issue she views as intrinsic to social justice. Ensuring equitable housing access allows communities to thrive and lays the foundation for broader opportunity. vooruit.brussels+1
Inclusive Education as a Launchpad for Opportunity
Another passion for Saliha is inclusive education. She envisions schools that not only accept diversity but also embrace it—providing necessary support systems so that every student can reach their potential. She sees inclusivity, especially within Dutch-language education in Brussels, as vital for fostering social mobility and cohesion. vooruit.brussels+1
Community Engagement: RWDM Girls and Youth Empowerment
Saliha’s dedication extends beyond formal politics into active community engagement. She has poured her energy into initiatives like the RWDM Girls football club and has organized job fairs aimed at equipping young people with skills and opportunities. Such efforts demonstrate her commitment to empowering youth—and in particular, young women—to build futures of their own. vooruit.brussels
Personal Qualities and Vision
Saliha is known as a bridge-builder—someone who unites rather than divides, and who fosters understanding between communities. Whether in her political roles or civic engagements, she emphasizes solidarity and inclusion. vooruit.brussels
Her personal joys and values reflect her grounded nature: she finds happiness in spending quality time with family and friends, and considers them her most precious possession. vooruit.brussels
Her vision is succinct yet powerful: to build a city where "equal opportunities are taken for granted and actively promoted," and where women’s empowerment is more than a slogan—it is daily reality. vooruit.brussels
Summary: A Portrait of Purpose
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Local Roots, Local Impact: A lifelong resident of Molenbeek, Saliha channels her deep local understanding into responsive and effective governance. vooruit.brussels+1
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Academic Foundation: Political science studies at VUB equipped her with analytical and strategic insights into governance. vooruit.brussels
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Dynamic Political Role: From municipal councillor to deputy overseeing critical domains like housing and education, her influence spans both local and regional levels. vooruit.brussels+1
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Values in Action: She champions social justice through affordable housing, inclusion through education, and empowerment through community programs. vooruit.brussels+1
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Visionary and Relational: As a bridge-builder, she fosters unity across cultures while grounding her politics in everyday human connection. vooruit.brussels
Conclusion
Saliha Raïss stands out as a politician who keeps her community at the heart of her mission. With roots deeply planted in Molenbeek and a vision that transcends conventional governance, she is not just serving her people—she is transforming the very notion of local leadership. Guided by principles of equity, inclusion, and empowerment, she continues to dream—and work—for a city where dignity, opportunity, and justice are not luxuries, but norms.
