Alison Kiehl Friedman

Alison Kiehl Friedman-mother, human rights advocate, diplomat, and entrepreneur-passed away on October 5, 2025, at age 46, surrounded by loved ones in Wailea Bay, Hawaii.

Born in Washington, D.C., Alison moved to California and graduated from Burlingame High School before earning her degree in political science from Stanford University. She launched her career advancing civil rights at People for the American Way, and later served as District Director for Congresswoman Jane Harman, navigating complex national security issues.

In 2007, Alison founded the Alliance to Stop Slavery and End Trafficking (ASSET), and authored California's groundbreaking Transparency in Supply Chains Act. Appointed by President Obama as Deputy Ambassador to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons, she championed international anti-slavery efforts, launched SlaveryFootprint.org, and co-authored a U.S. Executive Order banning exploitative recruitment practices. Her leadership contributed to the resolution of a hostage crisis in Pakistan and directly supported the liberation of thousands of people from slavery across the globe.

Her proudest role was as mom to Olivia Danger Friedman. For seventeen years, their unbreakable bond grew full of shared adventure, activism, and love. Together they mounted a Congressional campaign which helped turn a red seat blue, won the heart of media consultant, Mark Waner, and addressed and led thousands to fight for the soul of America.

With her former campaign rival-turned-friend, Alison created 1953 tequila, a premium brand founded, farmed, distilled, and distributed entirely by women-combining her entrepreneurial spirit with her commitment to women's leadership, social impact and economic empowerment.

Mark and Alison married in January 2022, Olivia presiding, just after being diagnosed with metastatic colon cancer. Love and bravery only grew.

Alison fought fiercely and generously, Mark always by her side or clearing the way, enduring over 80 rounds of chemotherapy while advocating for equitable care, increased research, and patient-centered innovation.

She is survived by Olivia, Mark, her parents Kristina and Robert, sister Anne, and many many beloved family and friends.

Donations in her honor may be made to the Colorectal Cancer Alliance, Free the Slaves, Lipstick Angels, or Undue Medical Debt. Celebrations of her life will be held in Hawaii and Washington, D.C.