In a county as diverse and dynamic as Fort Bend, it takes a rare kind of public servant to rise above the noise and make justice feel personal. Judge Sonia Rash is exactly that kind of servant—a trailblazer with a gavel in one hand and a heart full of purpose in the other.

Last Thursday, under the warm glow of chandeliers and the aroma of aromatic spices at a beloved Indo-Pak restaurant, Judge Rash officially launched her re-election campaign for Fort Bend County Justice of the Peace, Precinct 3. With a crowd as vibrant and multicultural as the community she serves, Judge Rash took center stage and reminded everyone why she remains a shining beacon of hope, equity, and inclusivity in Texas justice.

First, But Not the Last

Judge Rash is the first—and still only—South Asian elected Justice of the Peace in Texas, a milestone she carries with humility and pride. The daughter of Pakistani and Indian immigrants, she’s lived the American dream with a Houston twist—graduating from Houston ISD, then attending Our Lady of the Lake University, St. Mary’s University, and earning her law degree from the esteemed Thurgood Marshall School of Law.

"I ran four years ago because I love people and I love the law," she said. "JP court is the court that touches lives most directly—it’s in our neighborhoods, in our daily lives."

And touch lives she has. From launching night court sessions for working families to online hearings for those juggling jobs and kids, Rash has made good on her promise to make justice more accessible.

The Community's Courtroom

This isn’t your average judge—we're talking about a community-first, people-powered movement wrapped in judicial robes. Rash's initiatives go far beyond the courtroom: she’s brought internships for high school and college students, free workshops on wills and probate, know-your-rights seminars, and even citizenship pathway sessions to the people of Fort Bend.

“Our goal is simple,” she told an enthusiastic audience of African American, Latino, Hindu, Muslim, Jewish, Chinese American, and fellow Democratic officials. “We want a court that works for everyone.”

The Judge Who Listens—and Leads

Before becoming a judge, Rash served in nearly every role you can think of: small business attorney, nonprofit advocate, volunteer with The Coalition for Justice (where she championed gender equality and equal pay), Girl Scout mom, NAACP VP, LULAC member, and PTA leader. Her resume isn’t just impressive—it’s intentional.

“President Obama taught me that the best education goes beyond classrooms—it's earned in the grassroots,” she said. “Ordinary people can do extraordinary things when they work together.”

Her Pledge: Justice, Unity, and Grace

With husband Ron by her side and daughters Ronald and McKenzie cheering her on, Judge Rash reaffirmed her commitment to bridge-building justice, faithful service, and civic dignity. She isn’t just a judge—she’s a community architect.

As she continues her journey, Rash’s campaign slogan might as well be: Justice with spice—and a whole lot of heart.

Join the Movement

Follow Judge Sonia Rash’s journey and learn how you can support her mission of inclusive justice:

📍 Visit Her Campaign Page
📸 Follow on Instagram: @JudgeSoniaRash
📩 Volunteer and Get Involved: Contact Her Team