By Speakin’ Out News
Louphenia Thomas made history in 1978 by becoming the first Black woman elected to the Alabama legislature. A Birmingham businesswoman and beautician, she took her oath of office that year, marking a pivotal moment in Alabama’s political landscape.
Unfortunately, Thomas faced a setback when she lost her bid for re-election in the same year and decided not to pursue further political office. Nonetheless, her contributions to Alabama’s political scene were noteworthy.
In 1976, before her legislative role, Thomas achieved another milestone by becoming the first Black Alabamian elected to the Democratic National Committee, a position she held for eight years.
One of Thomas’s most significant achievements in Montgomery was securing $2.2 million in funding for Lawson State, a crucial two-year institution in Jefferson County.
Reflecting on this accomplishment, Thomas emphasized the challenges she encountered and the diligent efforts required to navigate the political landscape. She acknowledged Governor Wallace’s cooperation in facilitating the allocation of funds for the institution.
Her dedication to securing funding for Lawson State exemplifies her commitment to addressing the needs of Black educational institutions in Alabama. Thomas’s determination extended beyond legislative sessions, as she invested additional time and effort even when the House was not in session, demonstrating her unwavering advocacy for her constituents and their educational opportunities.
