“When I first came to the legislature, I was the only Black person out of 122 members… It was lonely, but I felt I had an obligation to speak out for those who had no voice.”

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Robert G. Clark, Jr. made history in 1967 when he became the first African American elected to the Mississippi House of Representatives since Reconstruction. Representing Holmes County, he served his constituents and the state with distinction for 36 consecutive years, leaving a transformative legacy that continues to shape Mississippi politics and civil rights progress today.

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Biography

Born on October 3, 1928, in Ebenezer, Mississippi, Robert G. Clark, Jr. grew up deeply rooted in the soil of Holmes County, where his family had farmed for generations. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Jackson College (now Jackson State University) and pursued graduate work at Michigan State University.

After a career in education, Clark stepped into the political arena during one of Mississippi’s most turbulent times. His 1967 election was a watershed moment, signaling a shift toward greater representation and civil rights in the state legislature.

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Legislative Leadership and Accomplishments

During his tenure, Rep. Clark:

• Chaired the House Education Committee for 12 years, playing a pivotal role in modernizing Mississippi’s education system.

• Advocated tirelessly for equal funding and resources for Black public schools and higher education institutions.

• Sponsored significant legislation to improve health care, economic development, and social justice throughout the state.

• In 1992, became Speaker Pro Tempore of the Mississippi House of Representatives, the first African American to hold that position in modern times.

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Honors and Legacy

Robert G. Clark’s impact has been widely recognized:

• Mississippi Civil Rights Museum features an exhibit highlighting his service.

• The Mississippi Legislature passed resolutions honoring his contributions to civil rights and education.

• Numerous awards and recognitions have been bestowed upon him for his pioneering leadership and public service.

 

Clark’s steadfast commitment to justice, equality, and education paved the way for generations of African American leaders in Mississippi and beyond. His legacy remains an inspiration to the Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus and to all who believe in a fair and inclusive democracy.

 

Together, members of the Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus stand on the shoulders of giants like Representative Robert G. Clark, Jr.

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