Shelia Stubbs

Shelia Stubbs is an American politician and member of the Wisconsin State Assembly, representing the 78th District. A member of the Democratic Party, she has been serving in the Assembly since 2019 and is notable for being the first African American to represent Dane County in the Wisconsin Legislature. In addition to her legislative role, Stubbs has a background in social services, having worked as a probation and parole agent, and she is also a pastor. Throughout her political career, she has focused on various issues affecting her community and has been actively involved in local governance.

Early life and career

Shelia Stubbs was born Shelia Renee Hoskins on February 22, 1971, in Camden, Arkansas. During her childhood, her family relocated to Beloit, Wisconsin, where she grew up and completed her education. Stubbs comes from a family with a history of civic involvement; her uncle, Walter Knight, served on the Beloit city council and was a member of its police and fire commission. After graduating from Beloit Memorial High School, she pursued higher education at Tougaloo College, where she earned a bachelor's degree in political science. She continued her studies at Mount Senario College, obtaining a second bachelor's degree in criminal justice management. Stubbs later earned a master's degree in management from Cardinal Stritch University in Milwaukee.

Before entering politics, Stubbs worked for eight years as a probation and parole agent with the Wisconsin Department of Corrections. This experience in the criminal justice system provided her with insights into the challenges faced by individuals in the community, particularly those involved with the legal system. Her professional background, combined with her educational qualifications, laid the groundwork for her subsequent political career.

In 2006, Stubbs was elected to the Dane County Board of Supervisors, where she served for 16 years until 2022. During her tenure on the Board, she was the only African American member from 2006 to 2020, highlighting her role as a trailblazer in local governance. Her work on the Board allowed her to engage with a variety of community issues and develop a deeper understanding of the needs of her constituents.

Legislative service

Stubbs announced her candidacy for the Wisconsin State Assembly on February 2, 2018, the same day that the incumbent, Terese Berceau, declared she would not seek re-election in the 77th Assembly District. Recognizing the heavily Democratic nature of the district, Stubbs faced three opponents in the primary election. She secured the Democratic nomination with a plurality of the votes, receiving just under 50% of the total. Following her primary victory, Stubbs ran unopposed in the general election, which allowed her to assume office for the 2019–2020 term. This election marked a significant milestone, as she became the first African American woman to represent a Dane County district in the Wisconsin Legislature and was the only African American woman serving in the Assembly at that time.

Stubbs's campaign gained national attention when an incident occurred during her canvassing efforts in a predominantly white neighborhood. A call was made to the Madison Police Department, reporting her and her family as suspicious individuals. This incident highlighted issues of racial profiling and community perceptions, drawing media coverage and public discussion about race relations in the area. Stubbs did not disclose the incident until after the primary election, but it underscored the challenges faced by candidates of color in their electoral pursuits.

Policy focus and district

As a member of the Wisconsin State Assembly, Stubbs has focused on a range of issues that reflect the needs and concerns of her constituents in the 78th District, which encompasses the south side of Madison. Her legislative priorities often align with the broader Democratic agenda, emphasizing social justice, community development, and public safety. Stubbs's background in social services informs her approach to policy-making, as she advocates for initiatives that support vulnerable populations and promote equity within the community.

Throughout her time in office, Stubbs has engaged with various community organizations and stakeholders to address pressing issues such as education, healthcare, and criminal justice reform. Her experience as a probation and parole agent has particularly influenced her stance on criminal justice matters, where she seeks to implement reforms that improve outcomes for individuals involved in the justice system.

In addition to her legislative work, Stubbs remains active in her community through her role as a pastor and co-founder of End Time Ministries International Church in Madison. This involvement allows her to connect with constituents on a personal level and address their spiritual and social needs. Stubbs's commitment to public service extends beyond her legislative duties, as she continues to work towards fostering a more inclusive and equitable society.

Overall, Shelia Stubbs's career reflects a dedication to public service and community engagement. Her journey from a probation and parole agent to a state legislator illustrates her commitment to addressing the challenges faced by her constituents and advocating for policies that promote social justice and community well-being. As she continues her service in the Wisconsin State Assembly, Stubbs remains a significant figure in the ongoing conversation about representation and equity in government.