Black History Month Day 7: Park Cannon

February 7, 2017:

Today's Black History post is not only a Tar Heel, but also a friend!

Park Cannon is a 25-year-old, queer, Black woman. She’s also a member of the Georgia House of Representatives. She’s currently one of four openly LGBTQ Black officials in state legislature. 

In November 2015, Park was called by then-Georgia State Representative Simone Bell. Bell told her she was thinking about retiring and wanted to see if Park would be interested in running for her seat. Park ran for the January 19, 2016 special election—and won. She became the youngest ever member of the Georgia House of Representatives. She made headlines nationwide for her achievement, as well as her age, race, and queer identity. 

As someone who met Park during her time at UNC, I can say with no hesitation that she is a force, and Georgia is lucky to have someone like her representing them. 

For more information on Park, her background, and her platform, visit her website!http://parkcannon58.com/