MS HC56

Commends Representative Edward Blackmon, Jr. from Madison (House District 57) upon his retirement after 41 years of service in the Mississippi House of Representatives.

Recognizes his civil rights activism beginning at age 15, legal career challenging discriminatory employment and governance practices, and election to the House in 1983 after a brief 1979-1980 term.

Acknowledges his pivotal role in the 1989-1990 redistricting process that increased African-American legislators from 5 to 45 and judges from 5 to 17.

Details his service on 16 major legislative committees including 24 years on Judiciary A (8 as chair) and 36 years on Rules, plus his distinguished legal career with over 50 trial victories and national recognition as a top litigator.

Honors his contributions to education through financial support to Tougaloo College, membership in professional and community organizations, and his family's sacrifices, including his wife Senator Barbara Martin Blackmon.