Search

Welcome to The Mississippi Black Caucus Website. Be engaged. Be involved. Be empowered. Donate to the Caucus Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus Advancing Equity, Justice, and Opportunity for African Americans in the Magnolia State MLBC Kicked Off Town Hall Series in Gulfport. Check out this Media Coverage. WELCOME FROM OUR CHAIR As I embark on the role of Chairman, I am filled with profound gratitude and a deep sense of responsibility. This opportunity is more than a personal achievement. More importantly, it is a sacred trust bestowed upon me by my fellow members—a commitment to lead with virtues, listen with empathy, and amplify our collective voice for the communities we serve. It is my pleasure to welcome to the official website of the Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus. Here you will find important information about our legislative policy, stay informed about our legislative priorities, and receive legislative updates. We champion issues that impact all Mississippians, with particular emphasis on African Americans, those in rural communities and those who are disadvantaged. We advance equity, justice, and opportunity by advocating for economic empowerment, criminal justice reform, job creation, educational advancement, voting rights, business development, improvements in infrastructure, and access to affordable healthcare. On behalf of the Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus, thank you so much for your support as we continue this critical work. May we remain steadfast and united in our mission, and may God bless each of you and the great state of Mississippi. Sincerely, Kabir Karriem Representative Kabir Karriem House District 41 Chairman, Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus ABOUT THE CAUCUS The Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus is made up of 55 members in the Mississippi Senate and House of Representatives Learn More MAKE A CONTRIBUTION Partner with the Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus to ensure we can continue our advocacy work for African Americans across the State of Mississippi Donate Now CAUCUS NEWS To play, press and hold the enter key. To stop, release the enter key. Join Our NEWSLETTER Sign Up Mailing Address Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus New Capitol PO Box 1018 Jackson, MS 39201 Email mlbc1976@gmail.com

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! 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

Be sure to stay up to date with the current news and events for the Mississippi Black Caucus. In The News 2026 Media Coverage 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

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

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

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.

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.

Find out everything about who we are, what we stand for and the various activities that we do in our community. Donate to the Caucus ABOUT MLBC The Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus (hereinafter “MLBC”) is dedicated to the advancement and, when necessary, the defeat of legislation impacting Mississippi’s African American population. Consisting of members of the Mississippi Senate and House of Representatives, MLBC endeavors to be the strong and collective voice of Mississippi’s 1.3 million African Americans. As a legislative caucus, MLBC recognizes it is most influential and effective when its positions and stances on certain issues are clearly defined and consistently applied. Having considered the current conditions of African Americans in Mississippi and Mississippians in general, MLBC hereby states its positions and intended course of action on matters of health care, education, criminal justice, matters of finance and economic justice and election reform. Join Our NEWSLETTER Sign Up Mailing Address Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus New Capitol PO Box 1018 Jackson, MS 39201 Email info@msblackcaucus.org

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

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.