The resolution honors Irma Hunter Brown for her significant contributions and dedicated service to the State of Arkansas. Born on January 5, 1939, in Tampa, Florida, she pursued her education in Arkansas, earning an associate's degree and later graduating magna cum laude with a double major in history and government. Irma made history as the first African American woman elected to both the Arkansas House of Representatives and the Arkansas Senate, serving from 1981 to 1998 and 2003 to 2008, respectively. She was instrumental in founding the Arkansas Legislative Black Caucus and held leadership roles in various national legislative organizations.
Throughout her career, Irma Hunter Brown was recognized for her advocacy in human rights and education, receiving numerous awards, including the ACLU Humanitarian of the Year in 2007. She played a key role in significant legislative achievements, such as the passage of the Clean Air Act and initiatives supporting early childhood education. Beyond her legislative work, she continued to serve her community through various roles, including as president of the Friends of Haven of Rest Cemetery, Inc. Her legacy is commemorated through recognitions such as a plaque on the Arkansas Civil Rights Heritage Trail and her induction into the Arkansas Black Hall of Fame. The resolution concludes by formally recognizing her contributions and directing that a copy be provided to her.