Kyara Ofuani
Kyara Ofuani (independent) ran for election for the Precinct 7 Place 1 judge of the Harris County Justices of the Peace in Texas. She lost as a write-in in the general election on November 5, 2024.
Ofuani completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. Click here to read the survey answers.
Biography
Kyara Ofuani was born in Janesville, Wisconsin. She earned a high school diploma from Joseph A. Craig High School, a bachelor's degree from Tennessee State University in 2017, a graduate degree from Columbia University in 2018, and a law degree from the Thurgood Marshall School of Law in 2021. Her career experience includes working as an attorney, small business owner, author, and dancer for the NFL and WNBA. Ofuani began the nonprofit organization Freedom of Faithful Food Bank. She served as Miss Black Texas USA. She has been affiliated with the following organizations:[1]
- COHAP Outreach Corporation
- Healing Empowerment Center
- M.E.M Mentor Empower Motivate
- NSBELA
- National Fish and Wildlife Foundation
- Color of Law Center
- American Cancer Society
- The Shrine of the Black Madonna
- Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
- Alpha Kappa Psi Business Fraternity, Inc.
- United Negro College Fund (UNCF)
- NAACP
- Urban League
- Sierra Club
- Hoodies 4 Healing
- We Are One Foundation
- Black Girls Do Engineer
- Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF)
Elections
2024
See also: Municipal elections in Harris County, Texas (2024)
General election
General election for Harris County Justice of the Peace Precinct 7 Place 1
Incumbent Wanda Adams defeated Kyara Ofuani in the general election for Harris County Justice of the Peace Precinct 7 Place 1 on November 5, 2024.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ |  | Wanda Adams (D) | 99.9 | 91,497 |
 | Kyara Ofuani (Independent) (Write-in)  | 0.1 | 137 | |
| Total votes: 91,634 | |||
| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
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Democratic primary election
Democratic primary for Harris County Justice of the Peace Precinct 7 Place 1
Incumbent Wanda Adams advanced from the Democratic primary for Harris County Justice of the Peace Precinct 7 Place 1 on March 5, 2024.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ | | Wanda Adams | 100.0 | 23,263 |
| Total votes: 23,263 | |||
| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
| If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey. | ||||
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team. | ||||
Endorsements
Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Ofuani in this election.
Campaign themes
2024
Ballotpedia survey responses
See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection
Kyara Ofuani completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Ofuani's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.
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Kyara's leadership extends globally, securing funding for key programs in the U.S. and internationally. Her platform as Miss Black Texas USA 2021-2022 further amplified her advocacy on issues like food insecurity and environmental justice. As a sought-after speaker, she has led workshops with the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, NAACP, and Urban League, inspiring action on critical community issues.
Now running as a write-in candidate for Justice of the Peace, Precinct 7, Place 1, Kyara is committed to modernizing the court system, sustainability, increasing justice accessibility, and implementing restorative justice practices that promote equity and understanding for all.- 1. Justice Accessibility for All As Justice of the Peace for Precinct 7, I will make justice accessible to every resident, particularly pro se litigants who represent themselves in court. Many individuals come to court without legal representation and are left vulnerable due to lack of knowledge and resources. I will establish free legal clinics to offer guidance and assistance, as well as develop digital resources and online tools to help residents navigate the legal system with confidence. By doing so, I will ensure everyone has the opportunity to stand up for their rights and achieve just outcomes.
- 2. Modernizing the Court The court system must evolve to meet the growing demands of our community. As Justice of the Peace, I will implement AI-powered tools and user-friendly digital platforms to modernize court operations. These technological advancements will reduce case delays, streamline processes like case filings and scheduling, and increase transparency. I will focus on creating systems that allow residents to easily track their case status, receive updates, and interact with the court more efficiently. My goal is to ensure that justice is delivered in a timely and effective manner for all residents.
- 3. Expanding Judicial Responsibilities The duties of Justice of the Peace extend beyond civil cases and disputes. I will prioritize bail reform, ensuring that defendants are not unjustly detained simply because they cannot afford bail. In misdemeanor cases, I will work to balance public safety with fairness by incorporating restorative justice practices that give defendants opportunities for rehabilitation. I will also hold community workshops to educate residents on legal rights, small claims processes, and tenant rights, making the court a vital resource for justice and community empowerment in Precinct 7.
In addition to my mother, I deeply admire influential Black women like Judge Constance Baker Motley, the first Black woman to serve as a federal judge. Her courage in fighting for civil rights and breaking barriers in the legal field inspires me to pursue justice with the same determination. Shirley Chisholm, the first Black woman elected to Congress, is another figure I look up to. Her fearless advocacy and groundbreaking leadership in politics demonstrate the power of standing firm in your convictions, even in the face of adversity.
Lastly, I draw inspiration from Dr. Maya Angelou, whose wisdom, creativity, and resilience have had a profound influence on how I approach my work and life. Her words, "I can be changed by what happens to me, but I refuse to be reduced by it," resonate with me deeply and remind me of the importance of perseverance and self-belief.
In "Letter from Birmingham Jail," King highlights the need for urgent action in the face of injustice, rejecting complacency and calling for constructive, meaningful change. He speaks to the interconnectedness of communities, where "injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere," a belief I hold strongly in my work as an advocate for justice, whether addressing housing inequities, civil rights, or environmental justice. This essay serves as a reminder that leadership is about serving those who are most vulnerable and ensuring that the law works to protect everyone, not just a privileged few.
1. Justice and Equity
A leader must promote fairness and dismantle systemic barriers, ensuring every individual—especially the marginalized—is treated with dignity and respect.
2. Unity and Nation Building
Leaders should unify the community, fostering collaboration and building bridges across divides to work toward shared prosperity, equity, and mutual respect.
3. Service with Purpose
Public service must prioritize the community’s needs, especially the vulnerable. A true leader uses their position to uplift others, driven by compassion and a commitment to the greater good.
4. Empathy and Compassion
Empathy allows leaders to listen deeply and create policies that address real human needs, ensuring that justice is a lived reality for all.
5. Integrity and Moral Leadership
Faith-driven leadership requires acting with honesty and transparency, doing what is right even when it is difficult, and providing moral direction.
6. Community Empowerment
Leaders must empower others by fostering civic engagement and ensuring every voice is heard, particularly marginalized communities.
7. Vision and Resilience
Leadership requires vision for a just and sustainable future. Resilience, guided by faith, helps leaders remain committed to justice through adversity.
8. Collaboration and Inclusivity
Effective leaders collaborate, engaging diverse perspectives and making decisions that reflect the needs of all, particularly marginalized voices.
9. Transparency and Accountability
Building public trust requires transparency and accountability. A leader must act openly and serve the community with integrity.
Conclusion
1. Commitment to Justice and Fairness
I am deeply committed to ensuring justice and fairness for all. Throughout my career, I’ve advocated for individuals who often lack access to legal representation or resources, and I strive to make the legal system accessible for everyone. My focus is on upholding fairness and equity in every decision I make.
2. Empathy and Compassion
I lead with empathy, understanding that behind each case is a person or family impacted by the law’s outcomes. Compassion guides my decision-making, allowing me to approach legal matters with sensitivity and focus on achieving fair solutions that prioritize the well-being of individuals and the community.
3. Legal Expertise
With a Juris Doctorate, experience as a licensed attorney, and as a licensed mediator, I bring strong legal knowledge to the role. My background in nonprofit advocacy and civil rights law equips me to handle complex legal matters effectively and with care. I understand the law deeply and will use my knowledge to apply it fairly.
4. Integrity and Accountability
I hold myself to the highest standards of integrity and accountability. I believe in being transparent in every decision I make, ensuring that the community’s trust is always upheld. Honesty and openness are central to my leadership, and I will ensure that all actions are in the best interest of those I serve.
5. Community Connection
Having lived, worked, and served in the community, I am deeply connected to the people I represent. My involvement in local organizations, my church, and my nonprofit allows me to understand the challenges residents face and advocate for their needs effectively.
A key duty is supporting pro se litigants, individuals representing themselves in court. Offering guidance and resources helps ensure they can navigate the legal system effectively. Efficient court management, including timely case resolutions and use of technology, is essential for maintaining smooth operations.
The Justice of the Peace also handles magistrate duties, such as issuing warrants, conducting bail hearings, and granting protective orders, balancing public safety and individual rights. Ensuring fairness in bail hearings, especially for those who cannot afford bail, is crucial to preventing unjust detainment.
A focus on restorative justice in minor criminal cases fosters rehabilitation and community healing, reducing recidivism and promoting fairness.
I want my legacy to reflect a commitment to lifting up marginalized voices and creating pathways for people to advocate for themselves. By prioritizing restorative justice, fairness in legal proceedings, and community outreach, I hope to have made the legal system more compassionate and responsive to the needs of the people.
While I don’t remember the event firsthand, its influence permeated through my upbringing, shaping the conversations around civil rights and empowerment that I witnessed as I grew older. The spirit of that march continues to inspire my own commitment to justice and advocacy for marginalized communities.
The challenge has been learning how to balance service and self-care—recognizing that while I want to be a resource for others, I also need to care for my own well-being to continue serving effectively. It’s been a journey of understanding that giving back doesn’t mean sacrificing myself, but rather finding ways to sustain my energy and passion so I can continue to make a meaningful impact over the long term.
1. Magistrate Duties
One key responsibility is serving as a magistrate, including issuing warrants, conducting bail hearings, and setting bail amounts. The Justice of the Peace’s discretion in these matters can directly affect an individual’s freedom. Fair bail decisions are essential, particularly for individuals who may be detained due to financial hardship. This role allows the Justice of the Peace to balance public safety with justice reform, ensuring fairness for all.
2. Issuing Protective Orders
The Justice of the Peace can issue emergency protective orders in cases involving domestic violence or threats of harm. These orders are critical in providing immediate legal protection to individuals in danger. Many don’t realize they can turn to this office for quick intervention, making it a vital resource for community safety.
3. Conducting Inquests in Unexplained Deaths
Another lesser-known role is conducting inquests into unexplained or suspicious deaths, especially in areas without a medical examiner. The Justice of the Peace determines the cause of death, which is crucial in cases of suspected foul play or neglect. This function provides families with answers and ensures justice is pursued when needed.
4. Mediation and Conflict Resolution
The Justice of the Peace can mediate disputes in small claims and landlord-tenant cases. This mediation role helps resolve conflicts outside of formal court proceedings, saving time and resources while encouraging fair solutions for all parties.
5. Community Engagement and Education
1. Justice for All
I am committed to ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background, has equal access to justice. Courts should provide clear support to pro se litigants, ensuring they have a fair chance to defend their rights.
2. Fairness and Equity
True fairness means considering the unique challenges people face. Equity, not just equality, should guide legal decisions, ensuring that individuals are treated with consideration of their circumstances.
3. Compassionate Application
The law should be applied with compassion, taking into account the broader impact on individuals and communities. Justice is about achieving fair outcomes, not just following rules.
4. Accountability and Transparency
Justice Thurgood Marshall, the first African American Supreme Court Justice, was instrumental in dismantling segregation through cases like Brown v. Board of Education. His belief in using the law as a tool for equity and social justice inspires my commitment to ensuring fairness and accessibility for all.
Judge Constance Baker Motley, the first Black woman appointed to the federal judiciary, was also a key figure in civil rights. She worked on landmark cases such as Brown v. Board and fought for equality throughout her career. Her perseverance and dedication to justice reflect my belief in using the law to uplift marginalized communities.
A judge with empathy can better balance fairness with compassion, especially when dealing with vulnerable individuals such as pro se litigants or those affected by systemic inequalities. Empathy doesn't compromise impartiality but enhances a judge’s ability to apply the law in a way that promotes justice, equity, and understanding for all parties involved.
What’s happening here is a battle for justice, a battle where too many are left without the tools or access to defend their rights—where housing insecurity, debt, and everyday legal issues pile up against those least equipped to fight back. I’m not running just to preside over a courtroom; I’m running to bring liberation to this space—liberation from the barriers that hold people back from accessing justice.
As Justice of the Peace, I will bring compassion, fairness, and accountability to a court that deals with life-altering decisions. I’m here to make sure that this court becomes a beacon of equity, a place where justice is accessible to every resident, no matter their background or income. This court seat is about more than settling disputes; it’s about restoring dignity, empowering the powerless, and transforming this community into one where everyone has a voice and a path to justice.
While political experience may help a judge understand the broader policy context, the heart of judicial work is about upholding the law impartially. A solid legal background is crucial for this. As someone who holds a Juris Doctorate, is a licensed attorney, and a licensed mediator, I’ve gained the knowledge and experience necessary to handle complex legal matters while maintaining fairness and impartiality.
Additionally, the overburdened court system leads to delays in case resolution, which can exacerbate the financial and emotional strain on individuals waiting for justice. Whether it's civil cases, eviction proceedings, or minor criminal matters, these delays can have severe consequences, especially for those facing housing instability or financial hardship.
Texas, like many states, faces challenges where individuals—especially from marginalized communities—struggle to access legal support. By embracing digital platforms for filings, hearings, and legal aid resources, the state can help ensure that more people, particularly pro se litigants, are able to defend their rights without being overwhelmed by complex procedures or excessive delays.
Additionally, there is a growing movement toward restorative justice, which seeks to resolve disputes and minor offenses in a way that heals rather than punishes. Texas has the opportunity to incorporate restorative practices more deeply into its legal framework, particularly in lower courts like the Justice of the Peace Court. These practices could shift the focus toward rehabilitation and reconciliation, reducing recidivism and improving community relationships.
While courts like the Court of Appeals or even the Texas Supreme Court are appealing due to the broader impact they offer, I remain committed to focusing on the present needs of my community. My role as a servant leader goes beyond just judicial duties; it involves advocating for equity, fighting for civil rights, addressing issues like housing justice, and ensuring fair legal access for underserved communities. Whether it’s through direct judicial service, community outreach, or legal reform, I will continue to focus on areas where my advocacy can create the most change.
While these ratings can be a useful tool for voters or others seeking information about a judge, they should be considered alongside other factors, such as the judge’s track record, decisions, community impact, and public service. Ultimately, a comprehensive evaluation requires looking at multiple sources of information to gain a balanced understanding of a judge's ability.
Financial Transparency
Public officials must ensure that all financial dealings—whether related to budgets, contracts, or expenditures—are fully transparent. This means clear, accessible reporting on how taxpayer money is spent, ensuring there are no hidden agendas or misuse of funds. Financial transparency not only prevents corruption but also promotes more efficient use of resources, as it allows the public to hold officials accountable for how funds are managed. I believe that public access to financial records is key to maintaining public trust and ensuring that government operates in the best interest of the people.
Government Accountability
Accountability means that elected officials must answer for their decisions and actions. When government leaders fail to act in the public’s best interest, there should be mechanisms in place for the community to demand change, whether through audits, public hearings, or electoral consequences. Government accountability also means that policies and programs are evaluated based on their outcomes, with adjustments made as necessary to improve services and address community needs.
Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.
See also
2024 Elections
External links
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Candidate Harris County Justice of the Peace Precinct 7 Place 1 |
Personal |
Footnotes
- ↑ Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on October 16, 2024
Federal courts:
Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals • U.S. District Court: Eastern District of Texas, Western District of Texas, Northern District of Texas, Southern District of Texas • U.S. Bankruptcy Court: Eastern District of Texas, Western District of Texas, Northern District of Texas, Southern District of Texas
State courts:
Texas Supreme Court • Texas Court of Appeals • Texas Court of Criminal Appeals • Texas District Courts • Texas County Courts • Texas County Courts at Law • Texas Statutory Probate Courts • Texas Justice of the Peace Courts
State resources:
Courts in Texas • Texas judicial elections • Judicial selection in Texas
