By: Sharon C. Jenkins Senfronia Thompson is a name that resonates with the echoes of history and the relentless pursuit of justice and equality. Growing up in Houston, ompson’s journey from a college student at Texas Southern University to a revered state representative is a testament to her enduring commitment to civil rights and social justice. Her experiences during the turbulent times of segregation and the civil rights movement have profoundly shaped her career and life. Early Life and Education ompson’s formative years were marked by the harsh realities of segregation. As a college student at Texas Southern University, she was thrust into the forefront of the civil rights movement. e pivotal moment that ignited her lifelong activism was her participation in a sit-in at a segregated drugstore. She recalls, “During those days, everything was segregated. I had the opportunity to participate in the sit-in strikes, where we would occupy places that served food, knowing they wouldn’t serve us. We just sat there, occupying the seats so they couldn’t serve anyone else.” One particular incident stands out vividly in her memory. Thompson and other students faced a life-threatening situation when a white man brandishing a double-barrel shotgun threatened to kill them. Despite the imminent danger, they remained seated, paralyzed by fear yet resolute in their mission. This harrowing experience solidified ompson’s commitment to the cause, as she hoped her actions would pave the way for future generations to live in an integrated society. Legislative Career ompson’s journey from the sit-ins of Houston to the halls of the Texas Legislature is a story of perseverance and dedication. Elected in 1972, she has been serving for over 50 years, becoming one of the longest-serving women in the history of the Texas Legislature. Her legislative achievements are numerous and impactful, reflecting her deep commitment to social justice, women’s rights, and education. Rep. Thompson received the Patient Care Champion Care Award in 2011 from the Harris County Medical Society, the Legislator of the Year Award from the Texas Family Law Foundation, a Friend of County Government Award from the Texas Association of […]
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