Octavia Coleman

Octavia Coleman was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She served in the U.S. Army from 2002 to 2005. Coleman earned a bachelor's degree from St. Augustine's University in 2005.

Her career experience includes working in advocacy and as a midwife. As of 2024, Coleman was affiliated with Delta Sigma Theta sorority and the Order of the Eastern Star.[1]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

Octavia Jare'l Coleman is an Epidemiologist with over 23 years of experience; specializing in Environmental & Reproductive Justice Initiatives. Octavia is a proud wife of 14 years to a loving and supportive husband, Henry. Together, they are parenting 4 beautiful children; three (3) boys (Kingston, Bishop, & Prince) and one (1) baby girl (Xora). Although native to Philadelphia, PA.; The Great State of Georgia is Octavia's ancestral home.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Education & Technology:School systems within our District MUST receive equitable funding and resource provisions to improve learning experiences and increase academic morale. This includes training accessibility & financial support to our homeschool programs.Economic Development:Fortifying our businesses with local partnerships. Increasing the circulation of our District’s dollar through cooperative efforts. We’re normalizing the support of our small & local businesses in the 13th!: Affordable Housing:We are the fastest growing District in the state. Yet, many of our residents are one (1) paycheck away from eviction. While our population grows, the rate of homelessness grows. Affordable housing is our right.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Access to Comprehensive & Affordable Family Health Care:

Families within our District deserve equitable, comprehensive mental and physical health care coverage.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

My "Mothers'". Over the course of my life, I have been surrounded by phenomenal women that have poured into my development and purpose. They have informed and shaped me at every step along my journey.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Whether one is a seasoned veteran or new to officiating, I know that a good, balanced character, bundled with compassion for the lived experiences of others, as well as dedication to execute the responsibilities of the office can go a long way.

What legacy would you like to leave?

I intend to demonstrate a legacy of how perseverance can leads victory.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

Pennsylvania and Federal Government bombing a marginalized, Black/African identifying community. I was 2.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

I was a hostess at Perkins restaurant in Easton, PA. This mAY have lasted 2 months.

What qualities does the U.S. House of Representatives possess that makes it unique as an institution?

The U.S House of Representatives are responsible for introducing and approving/opposing legislation. A tool that can make or break a society.

What are your thoughts on term limits?

When an elected official holds office for too long (7+ years), we begin to see a pattern and trajectory of their performance moving away from the needs and values of their constituents. We also see an increased alignment with corporate interest(s). In many cases, these corporations are anti what matters most to voters.

Tell us your favorite joke.

What did the acorn say when she grew up?

"Gee, I'm a tree!" (Geometry)

Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking?

I believe compromise is necessary and desirable for policymaking. Effective partnership that works together under a shared vision towards a collective, desirable outcome, sustains community and drives a nation forward, progressively.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

We Are One Georgia, Inc.