Get to know Rep.-elect Kanika Brown

May 27, 2022 at 11:02 a.m.

By Colin Campbell
NC Tribune

Kanika Brown surprised some political observers when she won a Forsyth County Democratic House primary over the husband of the longtime lawmaker who currently holds the seat, Rep. Evelyn Terry.

The new version of District 71 includes the southern half of Winston-Salem, and no Republican filed for the seat, so Brown was effectively elected when she won the primary.

Age: 46

What are the current and past jobs you’ve held outside of politics? I'm the president of Fuzzy Friends Pet Food Pantry, the president of the Morningside & Reynolds Park Road Neighborhood Association, a board member of Experiment in Self Reliance, and an assistant to a client with disabilities. In the past I have also worked as a substitute teacher and teacher's assistant.

Why did you run for state legislature instead of another elected office you might have considered? I ran for state House representative due to specific needs for change in the 71st District. I believe I can use my diverse experience and problem-solving skills to advocate for "We The People" in Raleigh and address the lack of resources, opportunity, and affordability that our community members are facing. I love the people of this district and am aware of their needs. Representing House District 71 as a state lawmaker is the perfect way to utilize that passion and knowledge.

If you could enact a single piece of legislation into law today, what would it be? I would raise the minimum wage in North Carolina to a livable one that properly honors the labor of our state's working families and provides the wages needed to make ends meet.

Where do you most enjoy taking an out-of-town visitor in your district? Local restaurants and venues like a/perture cinema, as well as our beautiful natural environments like Salem Lake.

What is your favorite hobby outside of work? Among my favorite hobbies are enjoying music (especially at jazz concerts) and learning more about our world through documentaries.

Who do you most admire, and why? I admire the activists from generations before mine, particularly the many who have dedicated their time and energy to mentoring me. Leaders of the women's and civil rights movements, particularly in the Piedmont Triad, have paved the way for women of color like me to be able to serve in leadership roles and give back to our communities. I am determined to build on their legacy and forge a strong future for generations to come. We must continue to expand opportunities for all.