Election Day was around the corner when I sat down with Councilwoman Renee Hardman for Episode 23 of the Black. Girl. Iowa. podcast. As someone who voted early and was reflecting deeply on the power of the ballot, this episode felt urgent and intentional. Not only were we watching the national political stage, but we were also talking about the everyday importance of civic engagement—and how finding your voice starts in your own backyard.
And who better to help us unpack all of that than Renee Hardman—a history-making leader, devoted community servant, and someone who knows what it means to use her voice boldly and purposefully in spaces where it matters most.
Civic Engagement Starts Where You Are
In the episode, I opened with a Black Iowa Fact about the Good Park Rebellion and the formation of the Des Moines chapter of the Black Panther Party. That historical moment was a turning point for activism in Iowa. It reminded me of something Renee later said that still sticks with me:
“You have to make good of where you’re at.”
Too often we focus on what’s happening nationally while overlooking the powerful influence we have locally. Renee reminded us that your city council, school board, and even zoning commissions are where big decisions are made—decisions that impact your everyday life.
“I saw an opportunity for representation on the council. We live in the city. We work in the city. Representation to me matters.”
Representation, Resilience, and Real Talk
As the first Black woman elected to West Des Moines City Council, Renee knows what it feels like to carry the weight of being “the first and only.” But rather than shy away from it, she embraces the responsibility—and the opportunity.
“With every new thing that I embark upon, sometimes I’m the first and the only… and so there is pressure.”
That pressure could be overwhelming, but Renee leans into it with faith and care. She spoke candidly about how she protects her peace and finds balance in the midst of leadership:
“I try to spend more time traveling, spending time with family, and reading good books that fill my spirit. And really being around people that give me good energy.”
It was a powerful reminder that taking care of yourself isn’t optional—it’s essential. Especially for Black women.
Finding Your Why
One of the most powerful takeaways from this episode came when Renee reflected on purpose:
“There are two of the greatest days in your life: the day you were born, and the day you figure out why.”
That quote hit me deep. As someone who’s been rebuilding and redefining life post-divorce, it reminded me that our purpose is often already within us—we just have to listen.
“Sometimes it takes a while to figure it out. But I found out early in my life that my why was serving others, being a vessel and a voice.”
That’s what Renee embodies in every room she walks into. She doesn’t gatekeep. She uplifts. She shows up so others can do the same. And that’s a legacy worth celebrating.
A Note to the Black Women Listening
These are heavy times. As we enter another election cycle, I want to echo what I said in the episode: Protect your peace.
“Please, please, please over the next couple of days—take care of yourselves. If you need to log off social media, disengage from harmful rhetoric, or just breathe—do that. We have to protect ourselves in every form: emotionally, physically, mentally.”
Renee reminded us that showing up doesn’t mean showing up for everyone all the time. Sometimes, it means showing up for yourself first.
Resources & Ways to Get Involved
- Lutheran Services of Iowa (LSI): Mental health support, foster care, refugee resettlement, and more. Visit www.lsiiowa.org.
- Voter Info: Stay up to date at vote411.org.
- Show Up Locally: Attend a city council meeting. Join a board. Reach out to someone already doing the work.
Listen & Reflect
If you haven’t yet, make time to listen to this episode. Share it with someone who’s still figuring out their “why.” Renee’s journey is full of reminders that we are already equipped to lead, serve, and stand tall in our truth.
“It’s not fun alone. We can have all the success in the world, but we need to look behind us and help someone else climb the stairs too.”
You have a voice. You have purpose. And you belong in the room. Let this episode remind you of that.
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