Hulda Momanyi Hiltsley has become the first Kenyan immigrant to win an elective seat in the USA. She’ll represent southwestern Brooklyn Park and Osseo. She defeated Brad Olson, her Republican opponent, by winning almost 65% of the vote.
Hilda, 39, who ran under the Democratic Party, has made history again by becoming the first black woman senator in Minnesota’s history.
Early Life and Education
Huldah hails from Nyamira County. She relocated to the United States at the tender age of nine and settled in Brooklyn Center, Minnesota.
She attended Bethel University, earning three bachelor’s degrees:
- BA International Business
- BA International Relations
- BA Reconciliation Studies
The Bethel University alumnus also has a Masters in Global Business Management.
Given her strong diplomatic background, Huldah was well-equipped with a strong foundation for her political endeavors and community advocacy.
Work Experience
Huldah has held a corporate role as a senior privacy analyst in the medical device industry.
She also served as President of Mwanyagetinge, the largest organization of Kenyans in Minnesota. The state’s Kenyan population is estimated to be around 20,500.
Huldah also holds the title of Founder (of SaniNaps), a nonprofit organization that provides menstrual pads and school supplies to girls in rural Kenya. This is in a bid to address critical educational and healthcare needs among young women.
Fun Facts About Hulda
- Her accolades include the Morrill Hall and Rachel Tilsen Social Justice Award for her commitment to social justice
- Huldah’s Bart Hiltsley is an American citizen and shares a daughter named Jaydah Rae. She credits her husband as her greatest supporter in her political journey.
- Huldah’s experiences when his father faced deportation deeply influenced her commitment to advocacy and public service.
- Paul Wellstone, the late U.S. senator from Minnesota, is the one who saved Hulda’s family from deportation decades ago.
“I stand before you tonight with a heart overflowing with gratitude, love, and a deep sense of responsibility”
“I want to honor my parents who have been a source of courage and resilience throughout my life. Our immigration story – our journey to this country – shaped my identity and purpose.” Huldah spoke, as she battled tears, at Oro Lounge in Brooklyn Park, where she celebrated her victory with dozens of her supporters.
A Full Circle Moment
Hulda’s father Momanyi, fought the immigration system, to secure legal permanent residency for his young family unsuccessfully.
After 11 years, the ruling ordered them to leave the country in 48 hours. In a last-minute intervention, a coalition led by an African American church the family attended, petitioned the deportation ruling.
Senator Paul Wellstone of Minnesota intervened and began lobbying on behalf of Momanyi’s family, which led to a last-minute court ruling overturning the deportation order. Unfortunately, Wellstone and his wife, Sheila, died in a plane crash in October 2002.
Hiltsley has promised to join hands to make District 38A a place where everyone feels valued and empowered. Her paramount importance is safe neighborhoods, high-quality education, affordable housing, and healthcare that’s accessible to all.
