Black History Month is not only a time to reflect on the triumphs and struggles of African Americans throughout history but also to recognize the trailblazers shaping our present and future. In Maryland, Black conservative leaders are making significant strides, challenging the status quo and offering innovative solutions to the state’s most pressing issues. Their growing influence reflects a shift in Maryland’s political landscape, one that deserves attention and celebration.

Take, for example, the recent appointment to the State House of LaToya Nkongolo by the Anne Arundel County Republican Central Committee. On Jan. 3, Nkongolo was selected to fill the seat vacated by Del. Rachel Munoz in District 31, which includes Pasadena, Severna Park, Millersville and Severn. This marks Nkongolo’s first foray into public office, but her experience as a therapist and advocate for education reform makes her a compelling figure. In 2024, Nkongolo ran for the Anne Arundel County Board of Education, aiming to address the critical need to improve reading and math scores in local schools. Her professional background underscores the GOP’s growing focus on health, education and community resilience.

Nkongolo is not alone in this trend. In 2020, the Washington County Republican Central Committee nominated Brenda Thiam to fill a vacancy in the Maryland House of Delegates. Thiam, an educator with a Ph.D. in special education and expertise in working with children with autism, became the first Black Republican woman in the Maryland General Assembly. Her appointment was hailed as a historic moment for the Maryland Republican Party.

Both Nkongolo and Thiam bring unique and much-needed perspectives to the General Assembly. Thiam’s work in special education has provided her with firsthand insight into the challenges faced by Maryland’s most vulnerable children, while Nkongolo’s experience as a therapist positions her to address critical issues in mental health and community well-being. Together, these women represent a new wave of leadership that prioritizes practical, community-focused solutions over partisan rhetoric.

Nkongolo’s appointment also highlights a broader shift within the Republican Party in Maryland. By selecting her over more established GOP figures, the Anne Arundel County Republican Central Committee signaled a commitment to diversifying its leadership and embracing candidates who reflect the changing needs and demographics of the state. This move aligns with a growing recognition that the future of the party lies in leaders who can bridge divides and bring fresh perspectives to the table.

As Maryland continues to grapple with questions of equity, trust and governance, leaders like Nkongolo and Thiam offer a blueprint for what is possible. Their appointments are not just milestones for representation but also indicators of a Republican Party that is evolving to meet the challenges of the 21st century. These Black conservative leaders bring unconventional yet common sense solutions to issues ranging from education reform to health care access, demonstrating that meaningful change often comes from unexpected places.

This Black History Month, let us celebrate the contributions of Black conservative leaders in Maryland. They are not just breaking barriers but also reshaping the narrative about what leadership looks like in our state. Their rise is a testament to the power of diversity, innovation and determination — and a reminder that history is still being made.

Christopher Anderson is a third-generation Baltimorean, a U.S. Coast Guard veteran and a community advocate. He is chairman of the Maryland Black Republican Council and a member of the Baltimore City Republican Central Committee. He has run for Congress and the Baltimore City Council.