About
About Hiruy Hadgu
Hiruy Hadgu is an activist and community leader with a proven record of bold advocacy and service in Howard County, Maryland. He lives in Fulton, with his wife and two children, who inspire his continuous work toward creating a brighter future for all in Howard County. From tracking and personally advocating on local legislation to establishing coalitions to uplift marginalized voices in Howard County, Hiruy has consistently championed causes that resonate with the community's needs.
Hiruy has been a local leader on equity and justice for several years. In 2017, he helped found Indivisible Howard County, acting as the facilitator for the environmental group and economic equity group. He served as an at-large member of the Howard County NAACP, amplifying Black voices in the fight for equality.
When Hiruy ran for the county council in 2018, his campaign shed light on the detrimental influence of developers on zoning and land-use decisions, crucial factors affecting school quality. Not content with raising awareness, Hiruy took action by questioning long-held assumptions within the Spending Affordability Advisory Committee (SAAC), effectively challenging false assumptions about the impacts and costs of new development on the community and local economy.
Hiruy wrote and circulated a petition in 2019 to increase residential school surcharge fees, which garnered significant support and directly contributed to the passage of the school surcharge bill in 2019. In the wake of George Floyd's murder, Hiruy co-founded the Police Accountability Task Force of Howard County, advocating for tangible reforms such as the introduction and funding of the police body camera program.
Hiruy's commitment to fair treatment of everyone regardless of identity is evidenced by his active involvement in the Howard County Coalition for Immigrant Justice and in the establishment of Howard County for a Free Palestine. His leadership in organizing efforts resulted in groundbreaking initiatives, including the introduction of a ceasefire resolution in Howard County.
Beyond his activism, Hiruy has held pivotal roles in various organizations, from serving as a board member of the Howard County Citizens Association to acting as a PTA delegate and VP of Operations at the PTA Council of Howard County (PTACHC). As a founding member of Progressive Democrats of Howard County, Hiruy has spearheaded progressive policies, particularly in zoning and land use, advocating for responsible and community-centric decisions.
Not only does Hiruy's background reflect his dedication to community and policy, but it is also grounded in strong academic achievement. He holds a Master's in Nuclear Engineering and Radiological Sciences as well as a Master’s in Business Administration, which equip him with a unique blend of technical expertise and strategic business acumen.
In Hiruy’s campaign for the Board of Education, he carries with him a steadfast commitment to ensuring every child receives the quality education and opportunities they deserve. Drawing upon his extensive experience and unwavering dedication, Hiruy Hadgu stands ready to advocate boldly and tirelessly for the interests and futures of Howard County's youth.