Mississippi Transplant: Brett Kenyon

"I’ve stayed because I believe that Mississippi has the potential to be just as attractive as any other state, and I want to be part of the generation that makes that happen."

What does it mean to call Mississippi home? Why do people choose to leave or live in this weird, wonderful, and sometimes infuriating place? If you’re on TikTok, you may recognize Brett Kenyon from his informative dispatches on Mississippi politics, culture, history, voting information, and more. Brett was born in Pennsylvania, but for him, Mississippi is home for the long haul. “[T]his is where I met my wife, where my kids were born, where I bought my first house, and where I really discovered who I am and who I want to be.” Read on to learn what keeps Brett rooted in his chosen state.

Brett Kenyon at Mississippi’s Red Bluff.

Where are you from?

I was born in Pittsburgh, PA but have lived in Wilmington, NC, Miami, FL, Brevard, NC, and Greenville, SC, before settling here in Mississippi. 

When did you move to Mississippi and why did you move here?

I moved to Mississippi in the summer of 2003. My uncle Wynn Kenyon was a professor at Belhaven University, and his sons were my best friends, so I transferred to Belhaven and lived in their garage for my college years. 

What does “home” mean to you? How does Mississippi fit into that definition?

Home has a gravitational pull. It doesn’t matter where you travel or how far you go, home is what pulls you back. Mississippi is home for me because this is where I met my wife, where my kids were born, where I bought my first house, and where I really discovered who I am and who I want to be. 

Brett and sons Bear and Emmett enjoy the St. Paddy’s Day Parade in Jackson.

What do you miss most about the place where you’re from?

I miss having a professional sports team, I miss the mountains, and I miss the colors of the leaves in the fall.

How have you cultivated community in Mississippi? Who are the people who have made you feel rooted here?

There are so many circles in Mississippi who have welcomed me. I’m incredibly grateful for the people I work with. I’ve met so many amazing people through the Mississippi arts community. And the community as a whole makes me feel welcome. Of course, the deepest roots come from family. My wife’s family and extended family (longtime Jackson residents) have made this place a home for me, and now that I have kids who are Mississippi natives, I can’t imagine living anywhere else.