Kenyan-born Huldah Momanyi Hiltsley made history on Wednesday when she won a seat in the Minnesota House of Representatives.
Momanyi, who will now represent District 38 A in the Minnesota House of Representatives, becomes the first Kenyan immigrant to win a state assembly seat in the United States of America.
The Kenyan immigrant ran on a Democratic Party ticket and defeated Brad Olson, her Republican opponent, by winning almost 65 per cent of the vote.
In her acceptance speech, Momanyi dedicated her win to her husband, Mr Ondieki and his family
"My unwavering partner in life, we just celebrated our 10 years in marriage this year. (Mr Ondieki) Thank you for your endless support, encouragement, and patience. This man has gone through some stuff, and to our amazing children, thank you for your love. I am doing this for you and your future," she said.
"I also want to honour my parents (Mr. Philip and Tabitha Momanyi), who have been the source of courage and resilience throughout my entire life," Huldah said.
The newly elected representative went further to recount her immigration journey to the United States while still thanking her parents for making the ultimate sacrifice to bring her to the USA.
"For those of you who know our immigration story. Our journey to this country that shaped my identity and purpose was because my parents sacrificed so much to allow us to pursue our dreams, and it is because of their strength and hope that I stand here tonight so proud to be the daughter of a Kenyan immigrant," Huldah said.
"Their story has driven my commitment to justice, opportunity, and inclusion, and it is their journey that has led me to this moment."
Momanyi also had a message for the Kenyan community in the USA and the globe, saying her victory belongs to everybody and it's a testament to the strength and resilience of immigrants.
"This moment has proved that dreams know no bounds, and when we work together, we make history," she said.
