Senator Thelma Harper Blazed Pathways for Black Women

Senator Thelma Harper carved a historic path as a champion for the people, particularlyfor African Americans and women. Harper’s illustrious career in public service is marked by her tenure as the first African American woman elected to the Tennessee State Senate representing the 19th District from 1989 to 2018. Born Dec. 2, 1940, in Brentwood, Tenn., Harper’s early life was characterized byresilience and determination. She graduated from Tennessee State University with a degree in business administration which laid the foundation for her future endeavors in public service. Her political journey began on the Nashville Metro Council, where she served from 1983 to 1990. Harper’s passion for community service and advocacy for the underserved became evident during her time on the Council where she worked tirelessly to address housing, education and public safety issues. Harper’s election to the Tennessee State Senate in 1990 was a watershed moment. Herpresence in the white, male-dominated legislature was not just symbolic; it was a catalyst for significant policy changes. Known for her unyielding advocacy and eloquent speeches, Harper championed a wide array of issues including health care access, education and criminal justice reform, in which she was a formidable advocate addressing the disproportionate impact of...