WHO IS KIA GHEE?
Rooted in Philadelphia. Dedicated to Justice.
Kia Ghee is a proud Philadelphia native from West Oak Lane, a working-class neighborhood deeply affected by the crack epidemic in the 1980s and 90s. Despite these challenges, Kia’s resilience and drive propelled her to graduate early from a prestigious magnet high school, earn her bachelor’s degree in 3.5 years, and complete a Master’s in Public Health.
Before becoming an attorney, Kia spent 12 years working with nonprofit and community-based organizations, managing multimillion-dollar budgets and programs like Head Start and Early Head Start, providing equitable access to education, healthcare, and community resources. She also led teams of over 50 staff members and organized impactful community events, such as health and job fairs.
A CHANGE AGENT
Kia’s leadership at the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations has further solidified her role as a change agent, addressing issues of systemic discrimination and promoting civil rights. Her efforts include launching initiatives like the People United to Stop Hate (PUSH) Symposium and the Social Justice Awards.
As the Executive Director of the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations, Kia oversaw the city’s official civil rights agency, lead the charge against unfair rental practices and other housing issues. Under her leadership, the Commission has launched transformative initiatives like the People United to Stop Hate (PUSH) Symposium, the Youth Ambassador Program, Social Justice Awards, and co-sponsored the Put Them Jawns Down Gun Violence Summit. These programs address systemic discrimination, promote equity, and cultivate the next generation of diverse leaders.
ACCOLADES
Kia’s dedication has earned her numerous accolades, including being named one of Philadelphia’s Most Influential African American Leaders by the Philadelphia Tribune (2021–2024) and one of the Top 100 in Law by City & State Magazine (2022, 2023). She received the Barrister of the Year Award from the National Stop the Violence Alliance, Inc. and has been a mentor to young female attorneys as President of the Philadelphia Chapter of the National Bar Association’s Women Lawyers Division.
The Barristers Association of Philadelphia recognized her with the Justice Juanita Kidd Stout Women of Distinction Award. This prestigious recognition is given to an exceptional attorney who has made significant strides in advancing the careers of other women in the legal profession and beyond. It celebrates those who pave new paths while exemplifying character, poise, and professionalism.
Beyond her professional work, Kia serves on the board of Health Federation Early Head Start and has led social action initiatives for Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
AFFILIATIONS
Philadelphia Bar Association, Pennsylvania Bar Association, National Bar Association - Women Lawyers Division, Philadelphia Barristers Association, Deans Council at Drexel University Kline School of Law, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. - Quaker City Alumnae Chapter.