Jonnieka Farr, Candidate for Richland County Council District 9
Why did you choose Emerge?
Emerge was touted as one of the best programs to train women that seek political office to effectively manage a campaign and win, while helping them to actualize and hone their skillset. I loved that it was not only tailored for women, but that it was also inclusive to women of all backgrounds.
What office are you running for and why?
I am running for Richland County Council District 9. I have realized that politics as usual has not provided the solutions we need to better our communities and resolve the issues we face. Our campaign will go back to the basics and care for our neighbors. We will work together with local organizations to bring support to our infrastructure, reengage our neighborhoods, and make Richland County a safe place for families to prosper. I believe that the people of Richland County are key to moving forward for our future. I vow to work with them side by side.
What is your vision for your community?
I envision a community where people are more engaged. I believe together we can work for solutions and bring people together. I envision a proactive community with leadership that listens and every voice is heard. All of our voices matter, and we create an environment where everyone has a fair chance to thrive.
What/who inspired you to run for office?
When I first moved to South Carolina, I was impacted by a personal incident deeply seated in racial bias. I couldn’t believe that in the 21st century we were still tackling issues of discrimination and racism. I made a promise to myself from there that I would do all that I could to work with people and bring equality to our communities. Fast forward to my involvement with the Richland County Democratic Women’s Council and appointment to the Greater Columbia Community Relations Council. I am inspired everyday to fight with the people of Richland County for a better and more equal tomorrow.
Which Democratic woman inspires you and why?
Unbossed and unbought – Shirley Chisolm. She was the epitome of courage and fearlessness, and she was undeterred by what others thought. She had a vision of unifying people across all socio-economic, political and ethnic hues. That is truly what I desire to do, bring people together; uniting them regardless of backgrounds or political ideas, but merely based on doing what is right for the betterment of us all.
What’s the one thing you gained from Emerge and would like to share with others?
I learned that women have the power and the potential to do what needs to be done to move our country forward, at both the local or national level. Women support women. Together we are a force like no other.