Just 26 years of age, Elijah Manley has accomplished much as a political activist.
Born in Fort Lauderdale’s Sistrunk Community, Manley has been involved with community groups since his teens and has run for the Broward County School Board and the Florida State Legislature. Manley is now running for District 20 of the U.S. House of Representatives, challenging the incumbent, Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick.
“My life experiences have shaped me and informed my perspective on the world we live in,” Manley says. “I am drawn to politics to help people overcome their challenges and adversity, because I, too, have had to face similar struggles. Politics is a major part of my life and my story. It is a big part of a larger puzzle that defines me.”
As a gay Black Jew, Manley straddles several communities, which presents different challenges.
“In the Black community, I have experienced significant homophobia, especially in the church. However, I have experienced both racism and a lack of support within the LGBTQ+ community, which hurts me the most because it is the community I have sought comfort and refuge in my identity. I have concluded that no matter how hard I work or try to prove myself, it will never be enough. So, I continue being me and working hard because I love both communities and want to see them thrive.”
Manley’s fame made him the subject of a 2022 documentary, “The Halls of Power.” Despite all that, he is also a private person, with “an unremarkable private life. When I am not working or actively campaigning, I love Kayaking, binge-watching Netflix shows, reading books, trying new foods, and being one with nature. I also spend time with my partner, trying new things.”
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