Hillman Frazier

Hillman Frazier is a prominent Democratic member of the Mississippi State Senate, representing the 27th District since 1993. With a long history of public service, Frazier has also served in the Mississippi House of Representatives from 1980 to 1993. Throughout his legislative career, he has been involved in significant legislative efforts, including the establishment of Martin Luther King Jr. Day as a state holiday and the formal adoption of the 13th Amendment. Frazier's educational background includes degrees in political science and law, and he has held various roles in both legislative and educational capacities.

Early life and career

Hillman Terome Frazier was born on July 17, 1950, in Jackson, Mississippi. He grew up in a family where his mother was a homemaker and his father worked as a carpenter and Baptist minister. Frazier's early education took place at Holy Ghost Catholic School, which laid the foundation for his academic pursuits. He later attended Jackson State University, where he earned a degree in political science in 1971. Following his undergraduate studies, he continued his education at George Washington University Law School, graduating in 1974.

After completing his legal education, Frazier sought to establish himself in the field of law and public service. He applied to the Mississippi Bar in 1974 and subsequently made multiple attempts to gain admission in the following years. His commitment to furthering his knowledge and skills led him to participate in various educational programs at prestigious institutions, including the University of Virginia, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and the John F. Kennedy School of Government. Notably, he was selected as an Eisenhower Fellow in 1998, which allowed him to study in Central Europe.

Frazier's early career included working as a legislative staffer for former Speaker Buddie Newman, where he gained valuable experience in the legislative process. He also served as legal counsel and bill drafter in the Mississippi House of Representatives, contributing to the development of state legislation. In addition to his legislative work, he was involved in a legal services office in Jackson and took on the role of adjunct professor of political science at Jackson State University. His engagement in political campaigns began in earnest when he was appointed assistant campaign coordinator for William F. Winter's gubernatorial campaign in 1975. He also played a role in Jimmy Carter's presidential campaign in 1976 as a member of the Hinds County Steering Committee.

Legislative service

Frazier's political career took a significant turn in June 1979 when he announced his candidacy for the District 67 seat in the Mississippi House of Representatives. He successfully won the election in 1980 and served in the House until 1993. His tenure in the House was marked by active participation in legislative discussions and initiatives that aimed to address various issues affecting his constituents and the state as a whole.

In December 1993, following the election of incumbent Senator Doug Anderson as Hinds County supervisor, Frazier ran in a special election for the District 27 seat in the Mississippi State Senate. He was elected unopposed and has since been re-elected multiple times, demonstrating a sustained commitment to public service. As a senator, Frazier has taken on leadership roles, including chairing the Interstate and Federal Cooperation Committee, and has been a member of several other committees that focus on various aspects of state governance.

Throughout his legislative career, Frazier has been involved in significant legislative efforts. He is known for authoring legislation that established Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday as a state holiday, reflecting his commitment to civil rights and social justice. Additionally, he played a pivotal role in alerting fellow legislators to the fact that the 13th Amendment had not yet been formally adopted in Mississippi, leading to its eventual adoption. His legislative work has contributed to the ongoing dialogue about civil rights and the historical context of legislation in the state.

Policy focus and district

As a member of the Mississippi State Senate, Frazier has focused on a range of policy issues that reflect the needs and interests of his constituents in the 27th District. His legislative priorities have included civil rights, education, and social justice, which are indicative of his background and personal values. Frazier's experience as a legal counsel and his academic background in political science have informed his approach to policy-making, allowing him to navigate complex legislative matters effectively.

Frazier's district encompasses a diverse population, and he has worked to address the unique challenges faced by his constituents. His involvement in various committees has allowed him to advocate for policies that aim to improve the quality of life for residents in his district. He has also been active in community engagement, seeking to connect with constituents and understand their concerns.

In addition to his legislative duties, Frazier has maintained a career as a consultant, which complements his work in the Senate. His professional experiences outside of politics have provided him with insights that he brings to his role as a legislator. Furthermore, Frazier's commitment to education is evident in his past role as an adjunct professor, where he contributed to the academic development of students at Jackson State University.

Frazier's personal life reflects his dedication to family and community. He is married and has two children, and he identifies as a Protestant. His involvement in organizations such as the NAACP and the National Urban League underscores his commitment to advocating for civil rights and social equity. Additionally, he is a Prince Hall Mason, which indicates his engagement in community service and fraternal activities.

In summary, Hillman Frazier's career as a state legislator is characterized by a long-standing commitment to public service, civil rights advocacy, and community engagement. His educational background and professional experiences have shaped his approach to policy-making, allowing him to effectively represent the interests of his constituents in the Mississippi State Senate.