| I am Antonio Parkinson, the State Representative for Tennessee's 98th Legislative District. My journey began in Oakland, California with my single mom, who then moved us to Los Angeles and eventually to Port Arthur, Texas. After facing a few hardships and becoming homeless during my latter childhood years, I was determined to make something of myself so I moved out on my own when I was sixteen. Despite getting kicked out of multiple high schools, I still managed to graduate at seventeen. After graduation, I joined the United States Marine Corps which brought me to Memphis where I have been dedicated to creating opportunities for those around me for personal and professional growth. Upon arriving in Memphis, I served on Shelby County Fire Department and retired a fire lieutenant after twenty five years of service. During that time I started working to make our city a better place. I began using my voice, leadership and organizing skills to create opportunities for improving the quality of life for those around us while also mentoring young leaders in the city. As a retired firefighter, business owner, and member of Breath of Life Christian Center, I worked hard before I was elected to the TN House Representatives. However, after being elected in 2011, I have been honored with being named Tennessee Legislator of the Year three times and Regional Legislator of the Year once. Through dedication and hard work, I have made it a point to make Memphis, Shelby County & the great state of Tennessee a better place for everyone by striving for social justice reform, healthcare reform, and reform in public education systems. It is an honor to serve my constituents in this capacity and know that the work we do together makes a difference! |