(CNN)Virginia state Sen. Jennifer McClellan officially entered the state's 2021 gubernatorial race Thursday in a bid to become the state and country's first black female governor.

McClellan, a Democrat, said in a campaign video "this is not a moment to retreat to the past, but to step boldly into our future."

"We stand at a critical time in our history, as Virginia faces health, economic and racial inequity crises," the 47-year-old lawmaker also said in a statement. "This is a moment to step boldly into our future. I'm running for governor to lead Virginia as we build an inclusive economy that doesn't leave people behind, a health care system that everyone can access affordably, and public schools that deliver on the promise in our Constitution to provide high quality education to all children." . . .

At this critical time in our history, we’ve been afraid, outraged, and inspired. Where do we go from here?

Boldly into the future.

I'm running for Governor of Virginia to rebuild an inclusive Commonwealth and transform pain into action. Join me: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/jlm-launch-tw