Protect Our Voice The Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus represents, serves and advocates for public policies that affect the well-being of Black Mississippians. We are working toward a state where Black Mississippians thrive through effective leadership and equitable policymaking that strengthens communities, protects rights and ensures dignity and opportunity for every generation. Verify Your Voter Registration Everything You Need to Know to Vote in Mississippi The Latest There's no need for mid-decade redistricting, and any committee actions must be held to the highest standards of integrity and transparency. Scroll to the bottom for the Public Hearing Schedule. Read More Where MLBC Stands Mississippi is facing an attack on Black representation and renewed uncertainty over its political districts following the Callais decision affecting voting-rights protections. State leaders have expressed interest in redrawing Mississippi’s four congressional districts, state legislative, and judicial districts. Although legislative redistricting committees have been established, new maps have not yet been presented. Callais is not a command nor a mandate to redistrict. It changed the standard courts will use in certain Voting Rights Act cases, but it did not erase the Constitution nor authorize racial discrimination. Any new map must still be drawn without intentionally diminishing Black voting strength. Political maps determine which communities vote together and who has the opportunity to elect representatives who understand their needs. When communities are divided unnecessarily, their voting strength can be weakened. When the process happens behind closed doors, residents may not have an opportunity to review proposed maps, identify problems or explain which communities should remain together. Fair representation helps communities advocate for: Strong public schools Accessible health care Safe roads and reliable infrastructure Affordable housing Economic investment and good-paying jobs Accountable government Fair treatment under the law We want to be clear: Mississippi Republicans are making a discretionary political decision to consider new maps. Any effort to dismantle or weaken the voting strength of Black Mississippians would threaten the ability of Black voters to elect a representative of their choice. Maps decide representation. Representation influences resources. Resources shape the future of our communities. Our Position The Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus believes: Black voters should not lose meaningful representation because legal standards or political priorities change. Communities should not be divided merely to weaken their voting strength. Mississippi’s only majority-Black congressional district should not be dismantled for partisan advantage. Every proposed map should be released early enough for meaningful public review. Public hearings should be held throughout the state before maps are finalized. Residents must have access to understandable maps, population data and information about proposed changes. Black communities, rural communities and other communities of interest must have a genuine opportunity to be heard. Maps must be evaluated by their real effect on voters—not simply by the stated intentions of those who draw them. Public participation must begin before decisions are made, not after a plan has already been completed. MLBC will speak openly, stand courageously and use its influence to protect the rights and representation of Black Mississippians. Take Action Protecting our voice requires more than watching what happens at the State Capitol. It requires informed, organized and sustained community participation. Utilize this suite of actionable items to Protect Our Voice and join the Protect Our Voice Network by completing the contact form at the bottom. Protect the Voice Join the MLBC Protect Our Voice Network. Complete the contact form below. Attend MLBC town halls and official redistricting hearings. MLBC encourages you to participate in the public hearing nearest you. Submit written or oral community testimony. For the public access policy, click here . Know your legislators and ask legislative leaders to provide public hearings, accessible data and adequate notice. Contact your legislators before any redistricting vote. Invite MLBC to speak at your church, campus or community meeting. Share trusted redistricting information with your network. Mobilize the Vote Verify your voter registration, address, polling place and ballot. Help seniors, students, recently relocated residents and people with name changes verify their information. Create a personal voting plan. Help at least five relatives, friends or neighbors prepare to vote. Participate in Stroll to the Polls on the first day of in-person absentee voting on September 21, 2026. Recruit poll workers and nonpartisan poll monitors. Share voter-protection information and report voting problems. Counter misinformation by sharing information from trusted sources. OPERATION TURNOUT Civics Sunday | September 20, 2026 The Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus is calling on churches and faith communities across the state to activate for Operation Turnout: Civics Sunday. This statewide, nonpartisan effort will help congregations get registered, verify their voter information and prepare to participate in upcoming elections. Each participating church is encouraged to designate a Civic Engagement Ambassador and aim to reach at least 20 voters. Register. Verify. Prepare. Your church can participate by: Setting up a voter engagement table before and after worship Helping eligible citizens complete a Mississippi voter registration application Helping registered voters verify their status, address and polling place Sharing accurate, nonpartisan information about voter ID, absentee voting and upcoming elections Encouraging each person to make a voting plan and help someone else become vote ready Reporting participation and submitting photos to the Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus The Civics Sunday Plan of Action includes preparation steps, a materials checklist, an engagement script, sample pulpit and bulletin language, voter resources and reporting instructions. Watch the Operation Turnout 2 Virtual Briefing Missed the virtual Operation Turnout meeting? Watch the recording to hear how the Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus is preparing for Civics Sunday and how churches can help their congregations register, verify and prepare to vote. WATCH THE OPERATION TURNOUT RECORDING Recording passcode: A8h&=K@7 After watching, download the complete plan below and prepare your church to participate on September 20. [DOWNLOAD THE CIVICS SUNDAY PLAN OF ACTION] VERIFY YOUR VOTER REGISTRATION DOWNLOAD THE MISSISSIPPI VOTER REGISTRATION APPLICATION Questions or requests for materials can be sent to mslbc1976@gmail.com . Transform the Block Organize a neighborhood cleanup or community-needs assessment. Hold a youth listening session. Mentor and develop young community leaders. Partner with local schools, churches and neighborhood organizations. Attend meetings of your city council, board of supervisors or school board. Advocate for investment in housing, health care, parks, schools and infrastructure. Turn voter participation into year-round community power. Join the Network Complete the form or email the Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus at mslbc1976@gmail.com First Name Last Name Email Message Thanks for submitting! Send

Be sure to stay up to date with the current news and events for the Mississippi Black Caucus. In The News 2026 Media Coverage June New MS law charges children responsible for gun crimes as adults Judicial ruling protects grocery choices as Mississippi kids feel impact of SNAP changes May Mississippi governor cancels special session Mississippi Governor Vows Thompson’s ‘Reign of Terror Is Over,’ But Cancels Redistricting Plans March Gloster town hall to include members of Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus Voting rights restoration bills clear first hurdle in Mississippi Legislature Problems with Parchman prison getting worse, MS Black Caucus members say February Black Caucus chair: To honor Jesse Jackson, fly Mississippi flags at half-staff January WATCH: Chairman Karriem and Rep. Clark discuss the Robert G. Clark Voting Rights Act with Roland Martin >>>>>>>>>>>> Mississippi lawmakers aim to protect voting rights Mississippi lawmakers propose state voting rights act State lawmakers push for protections as Supreme Court considers dismantling Voting Rights Act Mississippi Voting Rights Act introduced on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day New legislation introduced to help protect Black voting rights in Mississippi Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus focuses on education, voting rights See photos as MS Legislative Black Caucus present their 2026 legislative agenda 2025 Media Coverage November Accessibility and bias remain key factors in state’s maternal health crisis, advocates say Mississippi needs policies to help moms, advocates tell lawmakers October Mississippi Black Caucus hears from experts on maternal mortality Mississippi lawmakers urge governor to act as SNAP benefits face shutdown risk Black Caucus urges action as federal shutdown threaten SNAP benefits Local and state leaders are stepping up to help snap beneficiaries Mississippi needs policies to help moms, advocates tell lawmakers Group of state legislators stop in Laurel to discuss topics expected to be addressed in next session August Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus begins series of town halls on the Coast 2025 Media Releases and Advisories PSA: MLBC kicks off "Community Conversations with the Caucus" Series in Gulfport Media Advisory: MLBC's "Community Conversations with the Caucus" on August 19 Media Advisory: MLBC's Maternal Health Legislative Hearing on October 30 Media Release: Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus Calls for Urgent Action to Address State’s Maternal and Infant Health Crisis, October 30 Media Release: Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus Hosts Digital Dialogue on the Future of the Voting Rights Act, October 31

Action Alerts The Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus is committed to ensuring your voice is heard. We encourage all constituents to stay informed and take action on critical issues affecting our communities. Your participation is vital in shaping the policies that impact our lives. Let’s work together to advocate for change and make a difference! Operation Turnout Part 2 MLBC Redistricting Update Stay informed on the latest updates. Take Action. MLBC Calls for Transparency in the Kohen Wiley case Open Letter to Media MLBC Letter to AG Fitch & Commissioner Tindell MLBC is Coming to Okolona, MS August 22, 2026 11 a.m. Zion Springs MB Church MLBC is Coming to Ripley, MS This town hall is free and open to the public. MLBC will provide a legislative update and hear from residents about their concerns. Community Blueprint for Maternal & Infant Health News Release Download Jackson Flyer Download Canton Flyer Download Cleveland Flyer Participant Registration Volunteer Registration Education Equity Hearing on School Choice This hearing has been postponed indefinitely. MLBC and Faith Leaders Gather at State Capitol for Prayer and Policy Agenda Release Download Media Advisory The Future of the Voting Rights Act Digital Dialogue Watch Now Addressing Mississippi's Maternal Health Crisis Legislative Hearing Watch Livestream Greenwood Town Hall "Community Conversations with the Caucus" Share Now Watch Now Laurel Town Hall "Community Conversations with the Caucus" Share Now "The Federal Budget Bill and Its Impact on Mississippi Families" Legislative Hearing Watch Now Town Hall Meeting Learn More MDE Proposed Rules on DEI Ban House Bill 1193 prohibits the use, promotion, and institutionalization of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices, policies, and offices across the state's public K-12 schools, community colleges, and public universities. The Mississippi Department of Education will hold a public hearing on the proposed rules. Get engaged and raise your voice on this issue. View More Stay Connected! Get immediate actions and stay plugged in our our social media channels. Be sure to follow us @mlbcofficial!

Here, you should be able to see our policy agenda's. 2026 Legislative Session Policy Agenda The Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus is guided by a commitment to moral leadership, public accountability, and policies rooted in dignity, equity, and opportunity. Our work reflects an understanding that strong communities are built through shared values, responsible governance, and a deep respect for the lived experiences of the people we serve. The Caucus recognizes the important role that community voices—including faith leaders, advocates, and civic partners—play in informing public policy and strengthening democratic institutions. These perspectives help shape legislative priorities that address education, healthcare access, economic opportunity, public safety, and the protection of civil and voting rights. By centering values alongside research, data, and community input, the Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus advances policy solutions that are both principled and practical. This approach reinforces our commitment to good-faith governance and to building a Mississippi where fairness, accountability, and opportunity are accessible to all. Key Features: Provide automatic restoration of suffrage for persons convicted of nonviolent crimes MS Maternal Health Momnibus Act Robert G. Clarke Mississippi Voting Rights Act: House Bill 1446 and Senate Bill 2582 The Mississippi Anti-Hunger and Anti-Food Insecurity Task Force HBCU Equity Fund Prohibit contamination of clean soil with "forever chemicals" Require Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality to evaluate toxic air pollutants and revise air quality standards Require Mississippi Department of Health to track food deserts Values-Driven Public Service and Policy Leadership 2026 Policy Agenda Gallery of the 2026 Policy Agenda Release Provided by SCR Photography

Thank You Sponsors! To play, press and hold the enter key. To stop, release the enter key. Cooperative Energy NBCSL 49th Annual Legislative Conference The Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus proudly served as state host for the National Black Conference of State Legislators (NBCSL) 49th Annual Legislative Conference on December 7–12, 2025 in Biloxi, MS. This nationally recognized event brought together more than 1,000 state legislators, business leaders, and legislative staff from across the country for in-depth discussions on policies shaping our communities. NBCSL is a premier platform for networking, education, and advocacy—addressing critical issues such as economic development, education, healthcare, and criminal justice reform. Hosting this conference in Mississippi was both a tremendous honor and a unique opportunity to showcase our state’s rich heritage, resilience, and commitment to progress. HBCU Tailgate Welcome Reception The MLBC 2025 HBCU Tailgate Welcome Reception during the National Black Caucus of State Legislators (NBCSL) Annual Legislative Conference was held on Monday, December 8, 2025, in Biloxi, Mississippi at the Gruich Community Center. This year’s theme—“The Legacy Lives Here”—celebrated the enduring impact of our Historically Black Colleges and Universities, our Greek-letter organizations, and the collective work we continue to advance for Black communities across the nation. The Welcome Reception was a signature experience that brought together legislators, policy leaders, advocates, students, alumni, and partners from across the country for an evening of fellowship, culture, and celebration. With live music, food, and community engagement, this event set the tone for a week of meaningful discussion and policymaking. It also provide the MLBC with an important opportunity to showcase Mississippi’s rich HBCU legacy and our commitment to fair public policy.

MLBC Retreat 2025 Unifying the Caucus, prioritizing our shared mission, and moving forward together. Thank You Sponsors! The Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus brought together our members in a spirit of unity, reflection, and strategic planning. Over several days, members engaged in meaningful conversations about the state of the caucus, identified legislative priorities for the coming year, and strengthened the bonds of fellowship that ground our work. From strategy sessions and policy discussions to moments of celebration and connection, the retreat underscored our shared commitment to advancing justice, equity, and opportunity for all Mississippians. The retreat also honored our rich legacy of leadership, while challenging us to think boldly about the future. Together, we emerged with a renewed sense of purpose and a clear vision: to move forward as One Caucus, united in service to the people of Mississippi. We thank all our members, partners, and sponsors who contributed to making this retreat a success. The lessons, strategies, and commitments made here will guide our work in the upcoming legislative session and beyond. Black Caucus Retreat 8-18-2025 043 Black Caucus Retreat 8-18-2025 1011 Black Caucus Retreat 8-18-2025 032 Black Caucus Retreat 8-18-2025 043 1/121

Education Equity Hearing on School Choice In light of multiple school choice bills currently under consideration, the MLBC will convene a public hearing to examine the implications of these proposals on public education, students, families, and historically under-resourced communities. We encourage educators, parents, advocates, and community members to attend and make their voices heard. Thursday, January 15, 2026 10:30-12:30 p.m. State Capitol | Room 113 View More Mississippi’s Maternal Health Crisis Mississippi’s maternal and infant outcomes remain among the worst nationally, with disproportionate harm to Black families. MLBC is on a fact-finding mission to discover the root causes and determine the policy solutions. Purposes of the Hearing Include: To examine the causes and consequences of maternal mortality in Mississippi, with an emphasis on racial disparities. To review existing policies and highlight gaps in access, funding, and accountability. To hear testimony from medical experts, advocates, and families impacted. To propose policy solutions for the 2026 legislative session that can reduce maternal deaths and improve health outcomes. Watch Live Stream View More How HR 1 (Federal Budget Bill) Impacts Mississippi Families The One Big Beautiful Bill is more than just numbers on a page—it’s a sweeping federal budget proposal that will shape how Mississippi families live, work, and thrive for years to come. Our hearing, held on September 30, 2025, is about lifting up those realities, giving voice to the families most affected, and ensuring lawmakers fully understand what is at risk if these cuts move forward. Watch Hearing Now View More

Here, you will be able to find the rich history of the Mississippi Black Caucus. Donate to the Caucus MLBC HISTORY The Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus evolved as an informal organization in 1976 and remained that way for three years, which was consistent of racial legislative caucuses in other states at that time. The early members included Representatives Robert Clark, Horace Buckley, Fred Banks, and Doug Anderson. Hillman Frazier, who currently serves as a Mississippi State Senator, joined the group as a volunteer staff member. Robert Clark, a schoolteacher in Holmes County, became the first African American to be elected to the Mississippi State Legislature following Reconstruction. His election was a by-product of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 combined with strong mobilization efforts of local leaders and organizations, particularly the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party and the NAACP. African American citizens in Mississippi had been disenfranchised for nearly 100 years prior to the federal civil rights legislation. Thus, no African American had served in the state legislature between 1896 and 1967. The caucus was formally established in 1980 after an increase of 19 African American legislators. Representative Robert Clark was the first chair of the organization, followed by Representative Fred Banks as the second chair. The caucus is supported by the Political Education and Economic Development Foundation. The first chair of this foundation was Representative Charles Young. One of the main fundraising events was an annual banquet in which proceeds were used to fund scholarships for students attending historically Black colleges and universities in the state of Mississippi. Below are the original Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus members. House 47 Rep. Robert Clark Senate 27 Sen. Douglas Anderson House 69 Rep. Fred Banks Senate 28 Sen. Henry Kirksey House 70 Rep. Horace Buckley House 67 Rep. Credell Calhoun House 94 Rep. Barney Schoby House 50 Rep. Leslie King House 119 Rep. Isiah Fredericks House 110 Rep. Mitch Elerby House 85 Rep. Charles Shepard House 96 Rep. David Green House 82 Rep. Charles Young, Sr House 93 Rep Percy Watson House 38 Rep. Tyrone Ellis House 9 Rep. Clayton Henderson Senate 21 Sen. Arthur Tate House 57 Rep. Ed Blackmon House 29 Rep. Linda Coleman House 68 Rep. Dennis Sweet House 72 Rep. Tomie Green House 80 Rep. Omeria Scott House 27 Rep. Ferr Smith House 11 Rep. Leonard Morris House 32 Rep. Willie Perkins House 50 Rep. Jimmie Thornton House 31 Rep. Bill Richardson House 51 Rep. Rufus Straughter House 26 Rep. Aaron Henry House 30 Rep. Robert Huddleston House 65 Rep. Hilman Frazier House 36 Rep. David Gibbs Senate 80 Sen. Eric Powell House 63 Rep. Walter Robinson Senate 26 Sen. John Horhn Senate 32 Sen. Sampson Jackson Senate 12 Sen. Johnny Walls Senate 36 Sen. Vincent Davis Senate 13 Sen. Willie Simmons Senate 16 Sen. Bennie Turner House 41 Rep. Alfred Walker House 42 Rep. Reecy Dickson Senate 24 Sen. David Jordon House 98 Rep. David Myers *This short summary are excerpts of Black Legislative Politics in Mississippi by Dr. Byron D. Orey (2000). https://digitalcommons.unl.edu/poliscifacpub/5 Join Our NEWSLETTER Sign Up Mailing Address Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus New Capitol PO Box 1018 Jackson, MS 39201 Email info@msblackcaucus.org

If you are interested in reaching us, here's how to do so. Keep In Touch! Email mslbc1976@gmail.com

Your help is needed for us to continue serving our community. By donating, you can help ensure that we are able to make a difference. A Better and Brighter Future for Mississippi Support the Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus Invest in the Future of Equitable Leadership The Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus is committed to advancing justice, equity, and opportunity for all Mississippians. Through bold legislative action, strategic advocacy, and community engagement, we work to ensure that the voices of historically underserved communities are heard and prioritized in state policy. Your donation fuels our work—from drafting transformative legislation to hosting public forums and training the next generation of civic leaders. With your support, we can continue fighting for quality education, fair economic opportunities, accessible healthcare, and voting rights. Every dollar makes a difference. Help us build a stronger, more inclusive Mississippi. Donate today.

Meet our executive board members for the Mississippi Black Caucus. Donate to the Caucus EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBERS Representative Kabir Karriem Chairman Senator Rod Hickman Vice Chairman Representative Oscar Denton Treasurer Representative Zakiya Summers Secretary Representative Tamarra Butler-Washington Assistant Secretary Representative John Faulkner Parliamentarian Senator Gary Brumfield Chaplain Representative Robert Sanders Sergeant At Arms Join Our NEWSLETTER Sign Up Mailing Address Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus New Capitol PO Box 1018 Jackson, MS 39201 Email info@msblackcaucus.org

The Honorable Robert G. Clark, Jr. A Trailblazer in Mississippi History Mississippi House of Representatives Serving from 1967 - 2003 Speaker Pro Tempore, 1992 President Emeritus Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus “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.” 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. 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. 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. 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.