Huldah Momanyi Hiltsley, a Kenyan-born immigrant, has made waves in U.S. politics by securing a seat in the Minnesota House of Representatives in the recent elections. Her victory, representing District 38A, has positioned her as the first Kenyan-born individual to hold an elected office in the U.S., marking a monumental milestone not only for the Kenyan diaspora but also for African immigrants in the United States.
Born in 1985 in Nyamira County, Kenya, Huldah Momanyi was just nine years old when her family emigrated to the United States. They initially settled in Minnesota and later in Brooklyn. Raised in a family of first-generation Kenyan immigrants, Huldah’s upbringing was shaped by the values of hard work and perseverance. Her journey from a young girl navigating life in a new country to a state representative is a testament to the resilience of the Kenyan immigrant community.
Now, as a wife and mother, Huldah Momanyi Hiltsley has achieved the dream of many: public service and making a lasting impact in her community. She is married to Bart Hiltsley and is the proud mother of two children, Jaydah Rae and Jordan Philip. With her victory, she joins the ranks of notable Kenyan diaspora figures making an impact on the global political stage, proving that the reach of Kenyan talent and ambition knows no bounds.
Huldah’s campaign was centered on key issues that resonate with the diverse population of District 38A, which includes parts of Brooklyn Park and Osseo in the southwestern portion of Minnesota. The district is home to a large percentage of African immigrants, with around 66 percent of residents identifying as people of color. This made Huldah’s campaign particularly significant, as it underscores the growing political representation of African immigrants in American politics.
With 64.78 percent of the vote, Huldah secured a commanding victory in the general election, positioning her to represent her district in the state legislature. Her win comes after a strong showing in the Democratic primary, where she garnered 51.28 percent of the vote, defeating fellow candidate Wynfred Russell. Her success is not just a personal triumph but also a symbolic victory for the broader Kenyan and African immigrant communities in the U.S.
As she prepares to take office, Huldah has articulated a vision focused on safety, equitable housing, and accessible healthcare issues that are pivotal for her district’s largely immigrant and working-class population. Her pragmatic approach to policy-making sets her apart from others, as she aims to prioritize tangible results over political rhetoric.
Throughout her campaign, Huldah faced numerous challenges, particularly as an immigrant woman of color. She spoke candidly about the hurdles she faced, revealing that her qualifications were sometimes questioned due to her background. Despite these obstacles, Huldah remained steadfast in her belief that her experiences as an immigrant and a woman of color could bring a unique perspective to the Minnesota House of Representatives.
Her victory is already being celebrated by Kenyan communities both in the U.S. and back home in Kenya. Prominent figures from Kenya have taken to social media to congratulate her on this historic achievement. Anita Soina, Joan Kanini, and Esther Muthoni Passaris, among others, have lauded Huldah for her victory, with Passaris emphasizing the significance of her win as a symbol of the success of Kenyan immigrants.
In her new role, Huldah will serve as a voice for the diverse constituents of District 38A, where African immigrants and people of color make up a significant portion of the population. Her election is not only a reflection of her hard work and dedication but also a powerful reminder of the growing influence of African immigrants in U.S. politics. As she steps into this new chapter, Huldah Momanyi Hiltsley’s victory will continue to inspire future generations of Kenyan and African-American politicians.
