Check Out Rosemary Ketchum’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Rosemary Ketchum.

Hi Rosemary, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I grew up in East Liverpool, Ohio and was raised by a pair of wonderful parents. Early on, I recognized that my gender identity was different than my two younger brothers. Over the following years, I became vocal about my desire to transition and my parents were cautious but empathic and allowed me to begin the early steps of my transition. I was homeschooled for the majority of my younger years and when I entered college at 21, I became a first-generation non-traditional student.

I quickly got involved on my campus and found a leadership role on the board of the college. I enjoyed that experience and found myself looking for more ways to be involved.

After the 2016 election, I decided to dig deeper into political change work and started to organize around the state of WV.

It wasn’t until the spring of 2019 that I considered running for office myself.

After putting an ambitious team together, we started campaigning in the summer of 2019 and won our bid for city council in June of 2020 by 15 votes.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I have found my experience to be full of incredible moments and unfortunate circumstances.

In 2010, my family experienced a house fire which really was the catalyst for my move to Wheeling.

After the election, the Governor of WV spoke harmfully about transgender kids and passed a sports ban. I rebutted his remarks on MSNBC.

I have felt a sense of imposter syndrome coming from poverty; entering college and running for office were a tough experience that challenged my belief in my own self-efficacy.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
As Governance Director for West Virginia Can’t Wait, I work directly with elected officials to help them govern!

What would you say have been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
It is easier to replace our elected officials than to convince them.

Contact Info:

• Website: rosemaryketchum.com
• Instagram: @rosemaryketchum
• Facebook: @rosemaryketchum
• Twitter: @rosemaryketchum

Image Credits
NV photography, Mikaya Green