Dianne Wilkerson facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Dianne Wilkerson
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Wilkerson in 2008
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| Member of the Massachusetts Senate from the 2nd Suffolk district |
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| In office 1993–2008 |
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| Preceded by | Bill Owens |
| Succeeded by | Sonia Chang-Díaz |
| Personal details | |
| Born | May 2, 1955 Pine Bluff, Arkansas |
| Political party | Democratic |
| Residence | Boston, Massachusetts |
| Alma mater | American International College, Boston College |
| Occupation | attorney |
Dianne Wilkerson (born May 2, 1955) is a former Democratic member of the Massachusetts Senate. She represented the 2nd Suffolk District from 1993 to 2008. She made history as the first African American woman to serve in that chamber.
In 2008, she faced serious legal issues related to her public role. She officially left her position on November 19, 2008. Later, in 2010, she admitted to certain actions that were against the law. Because of this, she was no longer allowed to practice law in Massachusetts. She also spent time in a federal facility from 2011 to 2013.
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Dianne Wilkerson's Early Life and Education
Dianne Wilkerson grew up in Springfield and graduated from High School of Commerce. She continued her studies at American International College, earning a degree in public administration in 1978.
She then went on to study law at Boston College Law School, graduating in 1981. After becoming a lawyer, she worked as a civil rights attorney. She was also active in the National Lawyers Guild, which focuses on legal issues related to human rights.
Her Time in the Massachusetts Senate
In 1993, Dianne Wilkerson achieved a significant milestone. She became the first African American woman to serve in the Massachusetts Senate. She won her election in 1992, defeating the person who held the seat before her, Bill Owens.
Representing Her District
While in office, Senator Wilkerson's district covered many important areas in Boston. These included the Back Bay, Beacon Hill, and Chinatown. It also included Jamaica Plain, Mission Hill, Roxbury, and the South End. Parts of the Fenway, Dorchester, and Mattapan were also part of her district.
Important Roles and Committees
As a State Senator, Dianne Wilkerson was appointed to several important groups. She served on the Commission to Eliminate Racial & Ethnic Healthcare Disparities. This group worked to make healthcare fair for everyone.
She also helped lead the Special Commission on Non-Group and Small Group Health Insurance. This commission focused on making health insurance more accessible. Additionally, she was part of the Massachusetts Workforce Investment Board. This board helps people find jobs and improve their skills.
Later Political Activities
In September 2008, Wilkerson lost the Democratic primary election to Sonia Chang-Díaz. A primary election is when members of a political party choose their candidate. After this, on October 31, 2008, she announced she would not try to be re-elected. She officially resigned from the Senate on November 19, 2008.
In April 2022, Wilkerson decided to run for the Senate again. This happened after Sonia Chang-Diaz chose not to seek re-election. However, Wilkerson did not win the Democratic primary. She came in third place, with state Representative Liz Miranda winning the nomination.
