ABOUT ME

Zakiya Summers is a passionate and dedicated public servant representing District 68, which includes West Jackson, Pearl, and Richland. As a second-term Mississippi State Representative, she’s made waves with her forward-thinking leadership and commitment to advocating for all Mississippians—especially the underserved.

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Zakiya’s impact is reflected in her work on several key legislative initiatives, including the Dignity for Incarcerated Women Act, improved public education through expanded computer science curriculum in K-12 schools, and increased funding for early learning collaboratives. She’s fought for teacher loan repayment programs, pay raises for teachers, and most importantly, a stronger, more accessible democracy, including expanded voting rights and stronger healthcare protections.

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But beyond her legislative wins, Zakiya is focused on tangible, meaningful progress for the people of District 68 and all of Mississippi. She’s passionate about issues like criminal justice reform, clean water, the minimum wage, and healthcare equity. Whether she’s advocating for environmental justice, better infrastructure, or the right for all voices to be heard at the ballot box, Zakiya stands up for what’s right, even when it’s not the popular thing to do.

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Zakiya brings years of experience to the table, both as a leader and as an advocate for the people. Prior to her time in the Mississippi House, she served as Hinds County District 3 Election Commissioner and as the Director of Communications and Advocacy for the ACLU of Mississippi, leading advocacy campaigns that drove reform in criminal justice, voter access, and more. She’s no stranger to working with grassroots communities and pushing for the change that makes a real impact.

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In addition to her political work, Zakiya is an entrepreneur who owns Lady Godiva Productions, LLC, a public relations and event planning company. She’s known for her ability to connect with people, understand their needs, and help organizations craft their stories to make a difference. She’s been recognized as one of the “Top 50 Business Leading Women” by the Mississippi Business Journal and is dedicated to lifting up her community and fostering change.

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Zakiya is deeply committed to service, as seen in her leadership roles within organizations like Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., Jayne Avenue Neighborhood Association, Refill Jackson Initiative, among others. She also holds multiple fellowships, including with the Center for the Advancement of Leadership Skills and Women’s Democracy Lab. Most recently, she was honored as the “Public Citizen of the Year” by the Jefferson County Hospital.

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A proud graduate of the University of Missouri-Columbia with a degree in Broadcast Journalism, Zakiya is continuing her education at Jackson State University, where she is pursuing a Master's in Public Policy and Administration. She’s married to Andra Harlee, and together they have three sons—Marvin, Mason, and Mathis.

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Zakiya’s leadership isn’t just about titles or awards—it’s about the real, lasting change she’s making for the people she serves. She believes in a Mississippi where everyone has access to opportunity, justice, and dignity. She’s committed to being the voice that fights for you and your family’s future.