The late Mia Love, former Representative from Utah, was posthumously honored with the inaugural Martha Hughes Cannon Legacy Award on March 6, 2023. This recognition celebrates her pioneering role as the first Black Republican woman elected to the United States Congress. The award ceremony took place at the Utah State Capitol, where Lt. Gov. Deidre Henderson, a close friend of Love, presented the accolade.
During the ceremony, Henderson reflected on her long friendship with Love, which began during Love’s mayoral campaign in 2010 when she reached out for guidance. “Public service is not about you. It is about what you can do to help other people fulfill their opportunities,” Henderson stated, emphasizing the values Love embodied throughout her career. Love was diagnosed with glioblastoma multiforme brain cancer in March 2022 and tragically passed away in March 2023 at the age of 49.
The Martha Hughes Cannon Legacy Award is a new initiative established by Utah Women Run, a nonprofit organization dedicated to training women for public office. The organization has previously awarded the Martha Hughes Cannon Award to various Utah women for their achievements in politics over the past three years. The award is named after Martha Hughes Cannon, who made history as the first female senator elected in the United States in 1896.
Henderson drew parallels between Love and Cannon, noting that both women were trailblazers in their fields. “Mia taught me that I belong in the room. You belong in the room. We deserve a place at the table,” she said, highlighting Love’s role in empowering other women in politics.
Accepting the award on behalf of his late wife, Jason Love addressed the audience, stating, “Mia was so honored to serve the people of Utah for so many years at the city level and federal level.” He recalled her passion for campaigning and her commitment to public service. Love was known for her energetic presence during election seasons, often seen jogging through the streets of Saratoga Springs, even in winter.
“Knocking on doors, shaking hands, building relationships was such a critical part of her being able to gain voters and learn about city issues,” Jason Love remarked. He also emphasized how her identity as a mother and a woman enriched her ability to connect with constituents.
In addition to honoring Mia Love, Utah Women Run recognized five other influential women for their contributions to politics. Among them were Utah House Majority Whip Candice Pierucci, House Minority Leader Angela Romero, former Salt Lake City School Board member Kristi Swett, State School Board member LeAnn Wood, and Logan Mayor Holly Daines, who received the organization’s Lifetime Achievement Award.
The celebration of Love’s legacy and the recognition of other women in leadership roles underscore the ongoing efforts to empower women within the political landscape of Utah and beyond. The Martha Hughes Cannon Legacy Award aims to inspire future generations, highlighting the importance of representation and the impact of service in public office.
