Alyce Clarke facts for kids

Alyce Griffin Clarke, born on July 3, 1939, is an American politician. She was a member of the Mississippi House of Representatives. She represented the 69th district. Alyce Clarke was first elected in 1984. She served until 2024. She made history as the first Black woman elected to the Mississippi Legislature.

Early Life and Education

Alyce Clarke was born in Yazoo City, Mississippi. This was on July 3, 1939. She loved learning and went to several colleges. She earned a bachelor's degree from Alcorn State University. She also received a master's degree from Tuskegee Institute. She studied at Jackson State University and Mississippi College too.

Before becoming a politician, Alyce Clarke was a teacher. She taught home economics, which is about managing a home. She also worked as a nutritionist. This means she helped people learn about healthy eating. She worked at a community health center in Hinds County. Alyce Clarke married L.W. Clarke Jr. They had one child named Demarquis Johntrell.

Her Time in Politics

Alyce Clarke was first elected to the Mississippi House of Representatives in 1984. This is a group of people who make laws for the state. She represented the 69th district. Her election was a very important moment. She was the first Black woman to be elected to the Mississippi Legislature.

During her time in office, she worked on many important projects. She helped bring the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) food program to Mississippi. This program helps families get healthy food. She also helped set up drug courts. These courts help people with drug problems get treatment. Alyce Clarke also worked to organize school breakfasts. This helped make sure students had a good start to their day.

In the 1990s, she started a special group. It was called the Women's Caucus. This group included women from different political parties. They worked together on issues important to women. Alyce Clarke retired from her position in November 2023.

Her Legacy

Alyce Clarke left a lasting mark on Mississippi. In 2024, she was honored in a special way. Her portrait was put on display in the Mississippi State Capitol. This is the main building where the state government works. She was the first woman and the first Black person to have their portrait there. Her oil painting hangs in the room where the House Education Committee meets. This shows how much she contributed to education and the state.