Rep. Park Cannon is a Georgia State Representative, seasoned coalition-builder, and one of the youngest lawmakers serving in the General Assembly. Known for her sharp clarity, grounded presence, and care-centered approach to leadership, she brings fresh energy to conversations about power, democracy, and the people-centered policies that shape our daily lives.
Representing Atlanta’s House District 58, Rep. Cannon works across lines of difference to advance policy that expands access—to healthcare, housing, education, and dignity. Her legislative priorities include maternal health, HIV prevention, economic equity, and protections for LGBTQ+ communities, older adults, women, and children. A trained doula and advocate for reproductive justice, she brings a deeply informed perspective to her work on healthcare and bodily autonomy. She gained national recognition in 2021 for her principled stance during a high-profile protest of voter suppression efforts at the Georgia Capitol.
Beyond headlines, Rep. Cannon is deeply rooted in the daily work of democracy. She builds coalitions, mentors young leaders, and translates movement demands into legislative action. Her leadership blends strategy with empathy, offering a model for how meaningful change can be led—with clarity, courage, and connection—even in the most challenging environments.
She is the author of The Universal Guide to Running for Office, a practical and empowering resource for emerging leaders and activists ready to step into public service. She holds dual degrees in Hispanic Linguistics and Linguistics from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and completed the Harvard Kennedy School’s Executive Education program as a Bohnett LGBTQ Leaders Fellow. Her leadership has been recognized by organizations including SisterSong, the League of Women Voters, the National Black Caucus of State Legislators, the Atlanta NAACP, and the Council of State Governments.
Rep. Cannon is not just a lawmaker—she is a listener, a mobilizer, and a courageous public voice helping shape a more just and connected future.
Building Coalitions for Change: How to Mobilize Communities Across Differences
In this practical and inspiring talk, Rep. Park Cannon shares strategies for uniting people across race, gender, identity, and political affiliation to pursue common goals. Drawing on her experiences navigating Georgia’s polarized political landscape, she highlights how shared values, strategic listening, and authentic leadership can bridge divides. Audiences will leave with tools to foster inclusive coalitions that are both resilient and effective, even in challenging environments.
An Evening with Rep. Park Cannon
Join Rep. Park Cannon for an evening of story, strategy, and conversation. Blending personal reflection with political insight, she shares lessons from her journey as a young, Black, queer lawmaker navigating power, protest, and policymaking in the Deep South. Park offers sharp, compassionate commentary on the political and social issues shaping our lives today—from reproductive justice and voting rights to youth leadership and LGBTQ+ visibility. This engaging session includes remarks and a moderated conversation, offering space for honest dialogue, connection, and collective reflection on what it takes to lead in challenging times.
From Protest to Power: Turning Activism into Policy
Rep. Cannon unpacks the critical connection between grassroots organizing, social media, and legislative outcomes, showing how protest movements can drive long-term political change. She shares real-world examples of turning public pressure into policy wins, offering actionable steps for moving beyond symbolic gestures into systemic transformation. This talk empowers audiences to harness their voice, organize strategically, and push for change from the streets to the statehouse.
The Future is Now: Why Youth Voices Matter in Politics
Young people are not just future leaders—they are leaders now. In this energizing call to action, Rep. Cannon encourages youth to embrace their power by voting, organizing, and even running for office. Through stories from her own political journey, she highlights how youth leadership is essential to shaping a more just, inclusive, and forward-thinking society.
The Role of Black Women in Politics and Activism
This powerful talk honors the legacy and leadership of Black women who have consistently been at the forefront of social and political movements. Rep. Cannon reflects on the trailblazers who paved the way and shares her own path in public service as part of that lineage. She speaks to the challenges and triumphs of Black women in politics, while calling for continued support, representation, and recognition.
Running for Office 101: How to Launch a Grassroots Campaign and Win
Based on her popular resource The Universal Guide to Running for Office, Rep. Cannon offers a step-by-step breakdown of what it takes to run and win a grassroots campaign. From fundraising and messaging to voter outreach and personal preparation, she shares what she wishes she had known as a first-time candidate. This is a must-attend session for anyone curious about political leadership or ready to take the leap into elected office.
Reproductive Justice in the South: Fighting for Healthcare Access
As reproductive rights face increasing threats across the South, Rep. Cannon offers a timely and urgent look at the intersection of race, gender, and healthcare access. She highlights the critical role of reproductive justice advocates and outlines pathways for legislative and grassroots resistance. With clarity and compassion, she calls for collective action to protect bodily autonomy and expand healthcare equity in underserved communities.
