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Black History Month Each year, African-Americans are celebrated throughout the month of February in honor of Black History Month. This year we would like to enhance our celebration by spotlighting some of Georgia’s African-American government leaders. In honor of this special month, we asked the following individuals to complete a short survey naming an African-American who influenced their life and describing how that individual encouraged them to enter the public sector. We hope you enjoy their responses and learn more about the African-Americans who represent Georgia. Honorable Thurbert E. Baker - Attorney General Years in Public Service:
17
Representative Alisha T. Morgan, District 39
Service in Legislature: 2 years
"Get involved now. We need more young people in public service, not only behind the scenes, but accepting sometimes taking the torch of leadership. There is a great deal of work to be done and we cannot afford to wait. If you have true passion and a heart to serve, do it now!"
Service in Legislature:
19 years
"My mother, Ethel F.
Stanley was very active civically in our Center Hill Community where we
live. She volunteered in every area of our community, schools and
church, anywhere she could help others. She and three other ladies
worked with then Atlanta Mayor Ivan Allen to get our community chartered
with the city. My mother kept me involved in the community with her and
impressed this idea of love for God, family, community and commitment to
others on my mind and heart. Also, one of my older sisters, former State
Representative Pamela A. Stanley was a part of Jimmy Carter’s Peanut
Brigade, where she traveled with him throughout the state and country in
his bid for the Presidency. She kept me involved in many of the events.
This relationship and influence lead to former Atlanta Police Chief and
County Commissioner, A. Reginald Eaves asking Pamela to run for State
Representative, however, she declined at that time because she was away
with the FAA in air traffic control school in Oklahoma. Then he asked me
to run for the office only four months after graduating from the
University of Tennessee in Knoxville and I accepted the challenge after
much prayer. I was excited about being able to represent the people I
grew up with and the area I loved. I would be a voice for everyone in my
community." "Young
people should seek out some of the many ways to help others in our city and
state. Find an organization or area of interests in your community then work and
learn the people and give your best service to them. The political arena is an
area where you get a great education and wonderful experience but it does not
pay well financially, so make sure you are established in a career that will be
able to support you financially and politically. Employment that will give you
the flexibility needed to serve. Surround yourself with a very good support
system."
Service in Legislature:
Total 10; however served
4 years as City Councilmember, Citywide, in Atlanta in the middle of that time.
"My mother and family always encouraged my
involvement in my school, church, and community at a young age. I
always followed politics and upon entering Georgia State University I
was active in the Honor Society, athletics, and the Student Government
Association. Additionally, I was inspired by the Rev. Jesse
Jackson when he ran for president of the United States. I became
his top delegate to the Democratic National Convention and was over his
Georgia Youth Leadership in his presidential campaign of 1984.
Also, the Honorable Shirley Chisholm and the Honorable Barbara Jordan
are my mentors." "Aspire
for public service by obtaining an attitude of gratitude and a desire to help
and empower others. Study your social studies, civics lessons, and English
to be sure you are up to date on current events throughout the world.
Involve yourself in academic pursuits in all subjects and participate in
extra-curricular school and community projects. Strive for excellence and
volunteer for leadership opportunities in your school, church, neighborhood and
at home. Respect yourself and always respect others."
Representative
Douglas Cox Dean, District 59 Service in Legislature:
20 years "I started
at an early age working for a newspaper (The Atlanta Inquirer)
"My advice
to young people is to work hard and learn what public service is all about. They
should volunteer in someone's campaign and make a commitment to make a
difference in someone's life, the community, and the world. They should also
learn patience and tolerance and understand that public service requires a
commitment to mankind."
Representative
Bob Holmes,
District
61 Service in Legislature:
30 years
"I
have always been interested in politics and served in
student government. I grew up in Harlem in New York City and Congressman
Adam Clayton Powell was my idol. He was the fist Black to be elected to
the New York City Council and to the U.S. Congress from New York State.
He was the Chair of Education and Labor Committee and authored major
labor reforms, head start, and poverty legislation."
"Improving the quality of
life is dependent on government public policy - quality of education,
environment, public transit, affordable housing, healthcare, etc. so
'you can make a difference' by becoming involved in public service as an
elected official or an administrator in a state, local, or federal
agency."
Representative
Joe Heckstall,
District
62 Service in Legislature:
11 years
"In
NYC, I was president of several clubs (gangs). In the early 60s, I
discovered the Black Power movement and quickly decided a leader of an
organized gang or club with a purpose was much more effective than
random stupidity!"
"Leadership is only
relative if its pursuit is to make people's lives better."
Representative Tyrone Brooks, District 63
Service in Legislature: 25 years
"Join a civil/human rights
organization, become active, and get grounded in community activism and
community service."
Representative
Roger B. Bruce,
District
64
Service in Legislature:
3 terms
"I was a political
science major at Morehouse College. My interest was born out of a desire
to make a difference in this country. It is clear that government is
involved in every aspect of our lives from birth to death and we have to
be a part of the process to insure our individual freedoms. As a result
of my community involvement, I was asked by members of the community to
serve in the legislature. I have been honored to serve and I will
continue to fight to improve conditions for all especially our children
and our senior adult citizens."
"Give yourself a
quick test. Name some activity in your life that does not go through a
political process at some time. Most likely you will not be able to do
so. Be part of the process that controls your live. Find something you
can become passionate about and then set your goal to make a difference,
using that passion. We are all interdependent and public service is a
way to help others."
Representative Sharon Beasley-Teague, District 65
Service in Legislature: 11 years
Representative
Virgil Fludd,
District
66
Service in Legislature:
2 years
"There was not one
specific event but a progression of civic and community activities
[that
encouraged me to enter the public
sector]. I come from a family history that has
been short on cash resources, but long on giving to others. I became
active after graduating from college. I became a “Big Brother” and
eventually served on a number of local boards in the cities where I
lived. My community involvement increased when my children entered the
public school system. As a result, I paid a lot more attention to
community and neighborhood activities. My wife was active as well and
ran for school board in 1998. The final push for me came when new
legislative districts were drawn in 2002."
"Community
involvement and public service comes in a variety of shapes and sizes.
One need only be interested in giving to others to get involved in the
process. Our cities, counties and states need well meaning people to get
involved where the live and work. I believe that each of us has a
responsibility to give back. Find an area that you’re interested in and
there is no shortage of needs. Whether the interest is in criminal
justice, education, seniors, healthcare, civil rights, voter education,
the environment, children, the arts, public safety, tax reform, aids
awareness, teen pregnancy, etc., there are many places that could use
help. The impact of service can never be measured except in the
knowing that we have helped someone else."
Representative Roberta Abdul-Salaam,
District 74
Service in Legislature:
1st term "I
grew up being involved in the Civil Rights Movement because my grandmother was
very active in Middle Georgia. As a young adolescent, Hosea Williams and
Tyrone Brooks worked in my hometown often and they inspired me. I became
involved in community service when our local SCLC President, Silas Smith often
gave me assignments and eventually I was the teenage secretary of the chapter.
Still a teen, I also worked on Sen. Sam Nunn’s first campaign for political
office. As a young adult I began to work with programs such as Georgia
Legal Aide, American Friends Service Committee and I worked on issues of welfare
reform, criminal justice and other social, civil and human rights issues.
During this time in the early days, I met another youth leader, Earl T
Shinhoster. A few years later, I was elected President of my local NAACP.
Earl Shinhoster became NAACP Regional Director. While I have been
influenced and inspired by many people, I think more than any other person,
Earl T. Shinhoster helped shape my vision of service unconditionally.
Trying to carry on a small part the lifelong work of Earl T. Shinhoster is a
very big part of why I sit in the House of Representatives." "You
are never too young to serve. Get involved NOW. Do the things that
you can do. Find good mentors. Always remember that your
circumstances (no matter what they are) do not define who you are. Learn
to follow and don’t be afraid to lead."
Representative
Darryl Jordan, District 77 Service in Legislature:
5 years "I
have always had a desire to serve and help people. Because I have been
blessed in so many ways; I feel this is the least I could do for the community.
I have a desire to improve the educational system in Georgia and I would like to
bring back Drivers Education in every high school in Georgia." "I
strongly encourage young people to get the best education they possible can.
When possible, do volunteer work in the area you wish to study. Always
find time to study and read as much as possible."
Representative
"Coach" Williams, District 89 Service in Legislature:
2 years "My friend
James B. Sanderlin (deceased) inspired me. I like people and I enjoy serving
others." "Try
volunteer work first. Go to a forming area and work there for a month."
Representative
Howard Mosby, District 90 Service in Legislature:
2 years "I come form
a long history of public service: my father, the late Nate Mosby, was the 2nd
African American to serve on the Dekalb County Commission. My sister and brother
both serve on city councils - the Atlanta City Council and the Oak Ridge
(Tennessee) City Council respectively." "Every
aspect of life is governed by the political process. In order to affect change,
I would encourage anyone the advice of engaging in public service as an
effective way to make change."
Representative
Quincy Murphy, District 120 Service in Legislature:
3 years “My
inspiration to become a legislator came about after meeting with the
infamous 'Papa Dent' (former Representative R.A. Dent). He is a legend
and left a lasting impression upon me, resulting in the fact that I felt
the calling the serve the people of this great state."
"Young people should be the
primary factor for us as legislators to encourage them to become the future
generation of leaders. We have to be positive role models for them in order for
them to o aspire to such a role of public service. We cannot use the phrase "do
as I say, not as I do," we have to show them the positiveness in public
service."
Representative
Henry Lee Howard, District 121
Service in Legislature:
n/a “I
have always enjoyed helping people, therefore getting into politics
meant that I could expand my services to many people.
Rendering service is my foremost concern."
"Get as much education as you can
and at the same time keep up with new events such as local, state, federal, and
worldwide news in every aspect. These things can be of lots of help to you in
may ways."
Representative
Alberta Jacqueline Anderson,
District
123
Service in Legislature:
9 years "During
my term as a Waynesboro City Councilperson (1994 – 1995), I was
approached by a constituent’s son, who informed me about a situation
concerning his mother’s house. In 1984, this elderly black woman
had paid the City of Waynesboro a deposit of $100.00 to have her house
connected to the sewage system. This lady had purchased laboratory
products for her bathroom and also for the kitchen. As of April
1994, she had not been connected. I asked the City Manager to
investigate and find out what happened. A few days later, I
inquired again about the deposit. The City Manager was trying
desperately to see if they returned her deposit. I knew then, at
that particular moment, why God had put me in the seat. Someone
had to become the voice for the elderly who only asked for fair
representation." "My
advice to young people is if you care about your future, learn how to be
patient, how to become a great listener and care about someone other than
yourself. By trying to achieve this, you will become a good and faithful
servant, not only to God, but for his people."
Representative
Carl Von Epps, District 128
Service in Legislature: 12 years I
entered public service to give back to my community and to be a voice for those
whose causes and needs often go unheard. I especially wanted to help children
and the elderly, i.e. to contribute to their welfare and improve their quality
of life. I relate to the humanity of my constituents as individuals who have a
need, I do not categorize or stereotype them. I
have had a blessed life. But, most importantly, I realize that who I am, the
position I hold, and what I have is not because of me, but because of the ones
who paved a way for me who were used by our Lord and Savior as vessels for
change. Therefore, I have no other choice, but to give back to be a servant of
the people, and to serve God by serving others. I go back to the bible,
Luke 22:26, “For who is greater, the one who is at the table or the one who
serves? Is it not the one is at the table? But I am among you as one who
serves.”
Service to others is my mission. Am I not no better than Jesus?
"Young people you were all born equally and unique
with your own special talents and gifts to contribute to society. Work towards
good character as well as good grades. Academic excellence without integrity,
honesty and humility is no good. Realize that God put you on earth with a
mission in life. Some of you will discover your assignment utilizing your unique
talent before others. But do not be dismayed, because your time will come.
And when that time comes, whether you end up as a public servant, rapper,
president, teacher, banker, janitor or whatever, DO IT WITH PRIDE!
However, never forget how you got there, and to give back to your community in
your own special way. No job or service that you contribute to improve the life
of another is too small or not needed. To quote Rick Warren author of, A
Purpose Driven Life, always remember” He wants to work through you. What
matters is not the duration of your life, but the donation
of it. Not how long you lived, but how
you lived.” God
used Harriett Tubman, Thurgood Marshall, Martin Luther King, Jr., and Jackie
Robinson to make a difference in this world. He wants to use you too!"
Representative
Lynmore James, District 135 Service in Legislature: 12
years
"During reapportionment in 1992, the Heart of Georgia
District was created to give the African American community a voice in
the General Assembly. I felt at that time, my voice on economic
development, education, and heath care would be the resounding voice for
the newly created district.” "Politics determines the
growth, or the lack thereof, of community. To get involved will determine
your community's destiny."
Representative
Nikki T. Randall, District 138 Service in Legislature:
5 years “My
inspiration to enter public service came from being born into a family that
embraced 'servitude'. My grandfather was a civil rights activist, who later
became a Bibb County Commissioner. My father served 25 years in the Georgia
House of Representatives and presently is a Judge in Bibb County. I was always
taught never to complain about how bad things are, just find out what you can do
to make things better. Prior to being elected I served as a mentor, youth
counselor, campaign volunteer, and served on many boards throughout the
community. Though I am a third generation elected official, I do not consider my
position to be just political; I see it as simply another opportunity to render
public service." I would
simply quote the late Dr. Benjamin E. Mayes when he said 'You make your living
by what you get, and you make your life by what you give.' Everyone should give
of themselves to make life better for others. There is something that all of us
can do in our communities and you are never to young to start."
Representative
Bob Bryant, District 160 Service in Legislature:
1st year "I was first
influenced by State Representative Bob Hill of Savannah. I then involved myself
in my community by becoming the president of my community organization, and then
being elected to the Garden City, Georgia City Council for five terms. I was
elected by the people that influenced me to work for them." "My advice
to young people is to find a good cause to work for a better community. Educate
yourself and be prepared. It's my thinking that it's better to be prepared and
not have an opportunity, than to have an opportunity and not be prepared."
Senator
Regina Daughtry Thomas, District 2 Service in Legislature:
9
years "The
desire to see honest elected officials [encouraged
me to enter the public sector].
I had many complaints - so I offered myself as a solution. To speak the
truth - then act upon it. To really be a public servant to/by/for the
people. To be an effective elected official - to be a mover/shaker. To
help those who cannot help themselves. To open closed doors for many." "Young
people especially need to understand and know what issues affect their
communities. To try to make things better -to be honest and that money is not
everything. That each one can make a difference and bring about positive change.
Have a choice in not only the present - but the future. Be a part of the
decisions that will impact positive change."
Senator
Regina
Emanuel D. Jones, District 10 Service in Legislature:
1st year ”I was
inspired by the teaching and principles of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr..
His quote 'injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere' rings
true in my heart today. I believe the greatest service to mankind is
'public service'."
"My advice to young people today is to work toward
forging a new pioneering generation of young role models that will make keep
America the most respected and revered country in the world. Our youth must
embrace knowledge and wisdom for the benefit of mankind."
Senator
Ed Harbison, District 15
Service in Legislature: 12 years
"I submit that you must have a
need to help people a desire to make a distinctive difference. Volunteer in your
neighborhood, assist the elderly, and defend the disadvantaged."
Service in Legislature: 5 years
"Education is the key to freedom
now. Knowledge applies to all that one knows and understands the fact, whether
gained from books, teachers, personal experiences or observation. You must get
involved to gain personal experiences and observations."
Senator
Steen "Newslady" Miles, District 43
Service in Legislature:
First term
'The
best advice I can offer young people to inspire them to get involved in their
communities or possibly pursue a career in public service is simple. One should
strive to be a good steward of the gifts and talents with which the Creator
endows us. To whom much is given much is required. Find people who exemplify
positive traits of leadership and character. Talk to them. Learn from them.
Model them. Find causes that fit your gifts. Extend your reach by coming out of
your comfort level. Remember to set aside the ego. There is a West African
proverb that says, “I am because you are and because you are I am.” It’s not
about me. It’s about us. Get the human piece right. Be courageous. Don’t ever
be afraid to stand up, and speak out for what is right, setting aside party
affiliation, gender, race, class and physical and mental impairment."
Senator Gloria Singleton
Butler, District 55 Service in Legislature:
Entering 7th year
The years between 1995-1998, I was very active in
community service serving in areas such as; the 1996 Olympic Games working with
young people and senior citizens training them for active participation in the
Olympics; the NAACP, registering people to vote and getting out the vote, and a
federal project called the Coalition for Black Voter Participation. In 1998 my interest in public
service continued and I was approached and encouraged by the insightfulness of
one of my former colleagues, Donzella James that insisted that I would make an
excellent legislator and that I should offer myself for political public service
in the 55th Senate District of DeKalb County. I accepted the
challenge and am now serving my 4th term in the Georgia State
Senate.” "I
would advise young people to actively participate in programs and services which
offer them an opportunity to give and improve the quality of life to all who
reside in their communities. Work with children’s groups, such as; girls
and boys clubs, girls scouts and boy scouts, church groups, and other community
organizations. I would encourage young people
to get involved in the political process to increase their awareness of how the
political process works. Participation in the political process allows
en-roads to shaping the future of and for their communities. I
continuously say to young people that voter registration, actively campaigning
for candidates, and community and county government meetings are good
beginnings."
Honorable
Leah Ward Sears - Justice, Supreme Court of Georgia Years in Public Service:
22 "My
role as a public servant has matured from a judge of the City Court of
Atlanta, to a trial judge in the Superior Court of Fulton County. Now as a Supreme Court Justice, I am the peoples’
interpreter. Thurgood Marshall,
in the ground breaking case of Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka
(1954), argued that the “equal protection clause” of the Fourteenth
Amendment to the Constitution of the United States requires that states
treat all citizens alike.
I aspire to continue in that legacy to ensure that there is equal
and fair treatment for all under the law.
“No one shall be deprived of equal protection under the law,” are
fundamental rights that I do not take lightly.
I have an enormous responsibility to the citizens of Georgia; I
have a duty to guard the constitution by fully affording the rights and
privileges to all citizens.
This outstanding duty drives and motivates me to continue doing the
peoples’ work."
Honorable M. Yvette Miller - Judge, Georgia Court of Appeals
Years in Public Service: 13 years "My
parents always taught me that I could accomplish any goal that I set my
mind to with hard work, persistence and dedication."
"I had a dream of becoming a judge and I was
so thrilled when I was actually appointed to the Bench."
Honorable Herbert E. Phipps -
Judge, Court of Appeals
Years in Public Service: 32 "I
was motivated to enter public service by the times and circumstances
into which I was born – the racially segregated South – and by the late
C. B. King, a civil rights lawyer whom I met when I was 14." "At
an early age, I wanted to enter a profession, which would enable me to
do something to eliminate racial injustice from our society.
I could see that those in public service – especially lawyers and
judges – had the power to continue or to change the oppressive policies,
practices and laws under which we lived.
Therefore, I decided that a legal education would prepare me best
for service in the struggle against racial injustice." "In
ninth grade, I met C.B. King, at that time the only
black lawyer in South Georgia, when he came to
Career Day at my high school.
All alone and against great resistance, he was using his training
as a lawyer to fight for civil rights.
Years later, I joined him in the practice of law and the fight for
equal rights. He gave me
this priceless advice: “If you want to be an effective advocate for
unpopular people and unpopular causes, you must always be on your best
personal and professional behavior, because you can not fight this
unjust system and beg it at the same time.”
He was a role model for his advice; and it continues to serve me well."
Honorable John H. Ruffin, Jr. -
Judge, Court of Appeals
Years in Public Service: 18 |