Kia Ghee

The general nature of my practice has been health, mental health, labor and employment law. In June 2021, I was appointed to lead the Commission on Human Relations, an administrative agency tasked with fighting discrimination in employment, housing, and public accommodation and ensuring equality in Philadelphia.

I am uniquely qualified to serve as a judge because my entire career has been rooted in public service, equity, and community advocacy. My career has always been centered on service. I began as the former Director of an Early Head Start where I worked directly with low-income families to provide critical support and resources, long before entering the legal field. I became a lawyer to make an even bigger impact on my community. After proving myself as a volunteer in the City Law Department, I rose through the ranks as an Assistant City Solicitor then Deputy City Solicitor, where I fought to uphold justice on behalf of the city and the people of Philadelphia. Later as the Executive Director of the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations, I led the City’s efforts to combat discrimination and promote civil rights, ensuring that all residents are treated with dignity and fairness. As judge, I will bring my lived understanding of the challenges many Philadelphians face in the legal system, legal expertise, integrity, and unwavering dedication to justice make me the kind of judge our communities need. I will be one who listens, understands, and delivers fair and compassionate rulings for all.

What inspires me about the criminal justice system is its potential to foster both accountability and transformation. I am a firm believer that when the system functions as it should, it can protect the rights of individuals, ensure justice for victims, and offer second chances to those who need them. I believe in a justice system that doesn’t just punish, but seeks to understand and address the root causes of harm. My inspiration comes from seeing how access to justice can change lives, especially for people and communities who have been historically marginalized or overlooked. Ultimately, what drives me is the desire to be part of a system that reflects the values of dignity, fairness, and hope.

Implicit bias has been proven to impact sentencing as it relates to race, income, gender identity, and sexual orientation. If elected as a judge, I would ensure my courtroom is a space where all individuals receive fair and respectful treatment.

As a judge, my sentencing philosophy would be rooted in fairness, accountability, and the belief that justice should be both equitable and restorative. My decisions would reflect a commitment to public safety, while also seeking opportunities for rehabilitation and second chances, particularly when dealing with youth, non-violent offenders, and those impacted by poverty, trauma, or addiction. I would aim to balance the need for accountability with the importance of hope and redemption.

My role models are my mother and Michelle Obama because they both embody strength, grace, and a deep commitment to uplifting others. My mother showed me the power of resilience, working tirelessly to support our family while instilling in me the values of integrity, compassion, and hard work. Michelle Obama inspires me with her intelligence, authenticity, and unwavering advocacy for equity and education. Together, they represent the full spectrum of Black womanhood—from personal sacrifice to global impact—and have shown me that leadership rooted in love, purpose, and community can truly change the world.

I love "Know Your Value" by Mika Brzezinski because of it's message about knowing your worth, advocating for yourself, and breaking through barriers. The themes resonate deeply with my own journey especially as someone who has at times faced both microaggressions and structural challenges. It is empowering, honest, and offers practical tips for owning your space and experience in the workplace.

Waterfalls by TLC

7