Donald Kofi Tucker facts for kids

Donald Kofi Tucker (born March 18, 1938 – died October 17, 2005) was an important American politician. He worked in the New Jersey General Assembly from 1998 until he passed away in 2005. He also served on the Municipal Council of Newark, which is like the city's governing body, starting in 1974. He dedicated many years to public service in New Jersey.

Early Life and Service

Education and Military

Donald Tucker studied Urban Planning at Goddard College. He earned a college degree called a Bachelor of Arts. Before his political career, he served in the United States Air Force. He was an Airman Second Class from 1955 to 1959.

Political Career

Serving Newark and New Jersey

Donald Tucker was a dedicated public servant. He was a Councilman-at-Large in Newark, New Jersey. This means he represented the entire city on the city council. He served on the Newark Municipal Council for 31 years. He also worked on the Passaic Valley Sewerage Commission starting in 1985. This commission helps manage water systems.

Working for Civil Rights

Tucker was a member of the Congress of Racial Equality (CORE). This group worked for equal rights for all people. He helped efforts to end segregation in public housing in Newark. Segregation meant keeping people of different races apart. He also started a tenants council. This group helped people who rented homes. He was also the chairman of the New Jersey Black Issues Convention.

Role in the State Assembly

From 1998 until his death in 2005, Donald Tucker was a member of the New Jersey General Assembly. This is part of New Jersey's state government. He represented different areas, first the 29th District and then the 28th District.

He held an important position called Speaker Pro Tempore. He was in this role from 2002 until he passed away. He also chaired the Assembly's Commerce and Economic Development Committee. This committee worked on business and money matters for the state. He also served on the Joint Committee on the Public Schools.

Legacy

Dedication to Service

Donald Tucker faced health challenges during his life. He had diabetes and also had a stroke. He even had a pacemaker to help his heart. Despite these challenges, he continued to serve in his political roles. He remained in the Assembly and on the Newark City Council until his death in 2005.

His wife, Cleopatra Tucker, continued his legacy. In 2008, she was elected to the Assembly. She now represents the 28th district, the same district her husband once served.