Real change begins in the relationships we’ve nurtured

Mr. Charles Tisdale devoted his life to uplifting and motivating the people of Mississippi. Fearlessly wielding his platform as publisher of the Jackson Advocate, he held powerful figures accountable when they failed to serve the entire community. As I’ve campaigned across every corner of Senate District 26, meeting residents face-to-face and listening to their concerns, I’ve come to fully appreciate the vital, ongoing work of truly engaging, educating, and empowering a community – just as Mr. Tisdale did for generations. 

When I advanced to the run-off election, I received a phone call that completely changed my perspective. It came from a woman I deeply respect, whose wisdom has guided me and countless others. She congratulated me and asked about my game plan for the weeks ahead. I replied that I would keep doing what I’d done for months: knocking on doors and visiting churches. 

She paused. Then, firmly, she said, “It is not what you’ve done for the last several months that got you here. It is what you’ve done over the last several years.” 

That statement stopped me in my tracks. It reminded me that campaigns are marathons, not sprints, and that real change begins in the relationships we’ve nurtured over time. It solidified the truth I’ve lived but couldn’t fully articulate: My campaign isn’t built on flooding the media  market or fleeting appearances. It is rooted in years of genuine connection to this community. I am not just a lawyer, judge, and business owner running for state Senate. I am your neighbor, friend, church member, and sorority sister. I am your children’s Vacation Bible School teacher, holiday bell ringer, classroom volunteer, and favorite fundraiser. 

Sure, I’m visiting churches more frequently now, but I’m no first-time guest. I’ve been there for funerals, baptisms, weddings, and church anniversaries, long before any ballot was printed. Yes, I’ve been talking more about supporting our public schools, but I’ve served as PTO secretary at Northside Elementary, and as a classroom reader and school sponsor at schools all over Jackson, well before politics entered my mind. I have regularly spoken to senior and civic groups on the importance of estate planning and home ownership. I have been a constant presence, helping build bridges, remove barriers, and celebrate milestones. I understand that our greatest strength has always been our people – and we cannot afford to lose that sense of connection. 

This is much more than personal reflection; it is a call to action for how we choose our leaders. Community engagement is not optional – it is essential. We cannot expect an engaged community if we do not elect engaged leaders. Fully engaged leaders foster fully engaged communities, which in turn produces policies that reflect real people’s needs, not just politics as usual.

I have witnessed this difference firsthand. I’ve rolled up my sleeves at organized clean-ups in Presidential Hills, supported the Friends and Family Scholarship programs in Edwards, and served our seniors at the annual Grandparents Really Do Matter luncheon. The overarching theme is always the same: We are stronger together. Whether gathering to support a grieving family or cheering on the Callaway Chargers to victory, it is the spirit of community that holds us – and keeps us – together. 

Senator Henry J. Kirksey learned map making and demographics while serving in the U.S. Army during World War II. When he returned to Mississippi he began working on his own initiative to use those skills, which ultimately enabled over 600 Black officials to be elected statewide. Senator Kirksey’s community engagement extended to radio broadcasts inspiring civic pride and equity, protests for transparency, and championing educational and economic opportunities. Let’s choose leadership that honors those roots. Together, we can ensure our community remains not just a place we live, but a force we build. Electing truly connected leaders isn’t a luxury – it is the foundation of a thriving community. 

Together Forward, 

Kamesha B. Mumford 

Candidate, Senate District 26