Alyce Clarke facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Alyce Clarke
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| Member of the Mississippi House of Representatives from the 69th district |
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| In office 1985 – January 2, 2024 |
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| Succeeded by | Tamarra Butler-Washington |
| Personal details | |
| Born | July 3, 1939 Yazoo City, Mississippi, U.S. |
| Political party | Democratic |
Alyce Griffin Clarke (born July 3, 1939) is an important American politician. She was a member of the Mississippi House of Representatives for many years. She represented the 69th district from 1985 until 2024. Alyce Clarke made history as the first black woman elected to the Mississippi Legislature.
About Alyce Clarke's Early Life
Alyce Clarke was born on July 3, 1939, in Yazoo City, Mississippi. She went to college and earned two degrees. She got her first degree from Alcorn State University. Later, she earned a master's degree from Tuskegee University. She also studied at Jackson State University and Mississippi College.
Before she became a politician, Alyce Clarke worked as a teacher. She taught a subject called home economics. She also helped people as a nutritionist. She worked at a health center in Hinds County. She is married to L.W. Clarke Jr, and they have one child named Demarquis Johntrell.
Her Time in Politics
Alyce Clarke was first elected to the Mississippi House of Representatives in 1984. This was a big moment because she was the first black woman to join the Mississippi Legislature.
During her time in office, she worked on many important projects. She helped bring the federal Women, Infants and Children (WIC) food program to Mississippi. This program helps families get healthy food. She also worked to set up special drug courts. These courts help people with drug problems get treatment. Alyce Clarke also helped organize school breakfast programs for students.
In the 1990s, she started a group called the Women's Caucus. This group brought together women from different political parties. It was a way for them to work together on important issues. Alyce Clarke retired from her political role in November 2023.
Personal Details
In 1981, Alyce Clarke was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. This is a condition that affects the body's nervous system.
Her Lasting Impact
In 2024, Alyce Clarke received a special honor. She became the first woman and the first black person to have her portrait displayed in the Mississippi State Capitol. Her oil painting hangs in the room where the House Education Committee meets. This shows how much she contributed to education and the state.
