Skip to Content
AP-National

The first Black woman in the Mississippi Legislature now has her portrait in the state Capitol

By
Published 1:03 PM

By EMILY WAGSTER PETTUS
Associated Press

JACKSON, Miss. (AP) — Former Rep. Alyce Clarke is the first Black woman elected to the Mississippi Legislature. And now, she is the first Black person — and first woman — to have a portrait on display in the state Capitol. The 84-year-old smiled Tuesday as fellow lawmakers, friends and supporters honored her during a ceremony to unveil the oil painting. It has a prominent spot in the room where the House Education Committee meets. Clarke is a Democrat from Jackson. She had served 39 years before deciding not to seek reelection in 2023. Other portraits in the Mississippi Capitol are of former governors and former House speakers, who were all white men.

Article Topic Follows: AP-National

Jump to comments ↓

Associated Press

Related Articles

BE PART OF THE CONVERSATION

KVIA ABC 7 is committed to providing a forum for civil and constructive conversation.

Please keep your comments respectful and relevant. You can review our Community Guidelines by clicking here

If you would like to share a story idea, please submit it here.

Skip to content