2015 Senate Joint Resolution 7
ENROLLED JOINT RESOLUTION
Relating to: the life and service of Annette Polly Williams.
Whereas, Annette Polly Williams, the zealous legislator and an unapologetic supporter of the African-American community, was a leader, role model, and dedicated public servant. With deep roots in the Milwaukee community she attended North Division High School, becoming a proud "Blue Devil" for life. The pride and love she had for her community would serve as a guiding light throughout her illustrious career; and
Whereas, Annette Polly Williams, the legislator, successfully became the second African-American woman elected as a Wisconsin State Representative, and would go on to become the longest serving female legislator in either house, serving residents in the 10th Assembly District from 1980 through 2010; and
Whereas, Annette Polly Williams, the educator, was determined to level the playing field for children of low-income families. She unwittingly and forever changed the educational landscape and received national recognition by garnering bipartisan support to achieve what she thought was fair and just. Representative Williams was the mother of one of the state's most significant laws, the Parental Choice Legislation. Over the span of her 30 year career, she fought for a wide range of issues. No one championed the issues of our community more than "Polly," as she fought for redistricting to achieve better black representation; program funding for high school dropouts; improvements in daycare facilities; and access to quality healthcare; and
Whereas, Annette Polly Williams, the steadfast woman, championed her efforts through many organizations like the Tuesday Morning Breakfast Club, The Black Women's Network, the National Organization of Black Elected Legislative Women, and Wisconsin African American Women's Center. She brought the community together to tackle our most pressing issues. She had a real servant's heart and often hosted dinner at her home to foster a sense of community and family among her colleagues; and
Whereas, Annette Polly Williams, the great supporter of Black elected officials, through her mentorship, guidance, and political support, believed in the power of African American representation from the local to federal levels. She work extensively hard to make this a reality, through her work on Reverend Jesse Jackson's presidential campaign in the 1980s to supporting a host of Black elected officials at the city, county, and state levels. She demonstrated in leadership and deeds that African-Americans contributions should be valued and supported; and
Whereas, Annette Polly Williams, the mother, was tremendously giving and dedicated by nature. Her children were her greatest priority and she worked tirelessly to ensure that they would have a better life. She often stressed the importance of education and persistence to her children; and
Whereas, Annette Polly Williams, the friend, colleague, and mentor, has left behind a rich legacy on Wisconsin politics. She was a true pioneer, trailblazing a path for the likes of Congresswoman Gwen Moore and State Senator Lena Taylor. Wisconsin will forever be indebted to her passion, vision, and service that touched the lives of so many; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the senate, the assembly concurring, That the members of the Wisconsin Senate respectfully recognize and applaud the work, mentorship, and legacy of their colleague and friend, Wisconsin State Representative Annette Polly Williams, whose life positively impacted and uplifted the community that she so dearly loved and who loved her in return; and be it further
Resolved, That the senate chief clerk shall provide a copy of this joint resolution to her children, Winston, Mildred, Kimberly, and Krystal.
