Black Queer Representation

Featured in New York Times as “Ideal Candidate”

The New York Times featured an article on the wedding of Malcolm Kenyatta and me, Matthew Jordan-Miller Kenyatta, celebrating our union and the journey that brought us together. The article detailed our relationship, from our first meeting to our engagement, and finally, our wedding ceremony held in Philadelphia.

In the article, I shared, “It was love at first sight,” reflecting on the moment I first met Malcolm. The piece also captured the love and commitment we share, with Malcolm describing me as “the most thoughtful person I’ve ever met,” emphasizing the deep connection that led to our marriage.

Our wedding was more than just a personal milestone; it was also a historic moment, particularly as Malcolm, a Pennsylvania State Representative, and I are both public figures committed to advocacy and social justice. The ceremony, attended by close family and friends, was a powerful symbol of love and equality. I expressed, “This is the best day of my life,” highlighting the joy and significance of our union.

The article also touched on our individual achievements and how we continue to support each other in our careers and public lives. Our wedding was portrayed as a testament to the progress made in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights, with our relationship standing as an example of love triumphing over adversity.

READ: https://www.nytimes.com/2022/03/04/style/malcolm-kenyatta-matthew-miller-wedding.html

Power of Love - One of six "power couples" in Pennsylvania - City and State PA

For Valentine's Day 2022, we were featured alongside esteemed public figures like Sheryl Lee Ralph and State Senator Vincent Hughes in an article "The power of love: Meet six Pennsylvania power couples making us gush."

https://www.cityandstatepa.com/personality/2022/02/power-love-meet-six-pennsylvania-power-couples-making-us-gush/364236/

Dr. Matthew Miller messaged Malcolm Kenyatta on Instagram five years ago and the two fell in love instantly when they finally met in person months later. Based in Philadelphia, Malcolm is a state representative and candidate for the U.S. Senate, and Matt is an urban designer at the University of Pennsylvania School of Design. Malcolm, who tied the knot with Matt on Feb. 5, jokes that Matt is his campaign’s creative director. He said Matt working outside politics can be advantageous because “he has made this campaign more beautiful, creative and fun for not just myself, but our team and supporters.”

Matthew Miller & Malcolm Kenyatta (Doug Kerr/Flickr)

Named to “40 Under 40” Business Equality Magazine

Business Equality Magazine recognized me as one of their “40 Under 40” honorees, highlighting my work and impact as an academic and urbanist. The article delves into my background, noting my Ph.D. in Urban Planning and Development, and my commitment to advancing equity through urban design, historic preservation, and cultural engagement.

The feature emphasizes my role as the director of Justice & Belonging Initiatives at the University of Pennsylvania’s Weitzman School of Design, where I lead efforts to integrate equity and social justice into urban planning and design. It also discusses my work on projects like the creation of a Black cultural district in West Philadelphia and my involvement with the Philadelphia Art Commission, where I advocate for more inclusive public spaces that reflect the city’s diverse communities.

The magazine highlighted my passion for leveraging urban planning as a tool for social change, using my academic and professional platforms to amplify historically marginalized voices. The recognition as one of the “40 Under 40” underscores the impact of my work and my commitment to creating more equitable and inclusive urban environments.

READ: https://businessequalitymagazine.com/40under40/matt-jordan-miller-ph-d/