History, Leadership and Representation: 16 Black Women Seek to Shape Arizona’s Future

PHOTO CRED: https://www.winwithblackwomen.org/

Arizona’s political landscape is reflecting a powerful and historic shift as 16 Black women are featured in the Win With Black Women Arizona initiative, highlighting candidates across the state seeking elected office in 2026.

• Representing city councils, school boards, judicial seats, constable positions, and the Arizona Legislature, these women embody a growing movement rooted in civic engagement, representation, and community-centered leadership.

The initiative spotlights accomplished women from across Arizona who are bringing diverse professional experience—from law, education, business, and public service—to the ballot. Through individual candidate QR codes and voter education outreach, the campaign encourages residents to learn more about each candidate and engage in the democratic process.

Among those featured are Quanta Crews, Kiana Sears, Kesha Hodge-Washington, Berdetta Hodge, Khara House, Max White, Joysaphine Waitman-Powell and Raquel Armstrong.

The slate also includes community leaders such as Billie Davis, Natosha Edmonds, Chrystal O’Jon, Elaissia Sears, Sharron Sauls, Signa Oliver, Ashley Hodge and Mahogany Kennedy.

Together, the group reflects not only electoral ambition, but a broader narrative of Black women stepping forward to lead in spaces where their voices have historically been underrepresented.

A Movement Bigger Than Elections

The Win With Black Women Arizona effort is about more than campaigning—it is about building civic awareness, expanding voter participation, and amplifying the voices of women whose leadership is often grounded in advocacy, service, and lived experience.

For many of these candidates, public office is a continuation of work already happening in neighborhoods, schools, nonprofit organizations, and small business communities.

Representation Matters

This historic slate sends a strong message: leadership in Arizona is evolving. These candidates represent a spectrum of perspectives, but they share a common commitment to service and to creating pathways for future generations.

As voters prepare for the 2026 election season, initiatives like this encourage communities to move beyond the ballot box and engage more deeply with the people and stories behind the campaigns.

Because when representation grows, democracy grows with it.

Source: Candidate information and imagery courtesy of Win With Black Women Arizona campaign materials.

Paid for by Chrystal O’Jon for City Council Committee.