Antonio Parkinson is an American politician and a Democratic member of the Tennessee House of Representatives representing District 98. He has held this position since his special election on March 8, 2011, following the death of Representative Ulysses Jones, Jr.1
Early Life and Business Career
Antonio Parkinson was born on July 14, 1969, in Oakland, California. His journey began with his single mom, who moved their family to Los Angeles and eventually to Port Arthur, Texas. Despite facing hardships and experiencing homelessness during his latter childhood years, Parkinson was determined to make something of himself. He moved out on his own when he was sixteen.
In addition to his political career, Antonio Parkinson has a diverse background:
- Military Service: He served in the United States Marine Corps for 4.5 years, including during Desert Storm.
- Firefighter: Parkinson worked with the Shelby County Fire Department and rose to the rank of Lieutenant before retiring.
- Business Owner: He owns Black Market Strategies, a public relations and marketing firm.
- Community Involvement: Parkinson served on the board of directors of ABetterMemphis.com, a platform for citizens to voice their opinions and solutions for city and county issues.
- Faith: He is a member of Breath of Life Christian Center.
Legislative Achievements
Antonio Parkinson has been named Tennessee Legislator of the Year multiple times. Some of his noteworthy legislative accomplishments include:
- The Healthy Workplace Act: Aimed at eliminating workplace bullying in Tennessee.
- Kimberlee’s Law: Ensures that criminals convicted of aggravated rape serve 100% of their sentence (Tennessee was the first state to pass this type of legislation).
- The Neighborhood Protection Act: Empowers neighborhood associations and watch groups to file restraining orders against criminals targeting their communities.
- Cosmetology Law: Created apprenticeships for cosmetology students and allowed for free-standing schools of natural hair, aesthetics, and manicuring in Tennessee.
Antonio Parkinson continues to be a staunch advocate for public education and justice reform.
