Black Leaders in Central Florida: Geraldine Thompson
Meet the Senator Representing District 15!
Senator Geraldine Thompson represents District 15, the northern west part of Orange County.
Photo by Roberto Gonzalez
Geraldine Thompson, a prominent figure in Florida politics, has made significant contributions to Orlando and our Black community. Serving her first term in the Florida Senate following two separate stints in the House, Thompson has been a strong advocate for legislative reforms, community empowerment, and educational integrity.
INCREDIBLE ACCOMPLISHMENTS
One of her most notable accomplishments is the advocacy and passage of the Tyre Sampson Act. This legislation emerged in the wake of a tragic incident in March 2022, when 14-year-old Tyre Sampson lost his life after falling from a drop tower at ICON Park in Orlando. In response, Thompson spearheaded efforts to enhance safety standards for amusement rides. The act not only increased regulation but also led to the creation of 18 new jobs specifically for inspecting amusement rides in Florida. This initiative reflects Thompson’s commitment to public safety and her ability to transform a personal tragedy into legislative action that benefits the entire community.
EMPOWERING THE NEXT GENERATION
Another significant area of Thompson’s work is her commitment to supporting underserved youth in low-income communities. She successfully filed legislation to expand the Florida Children’s Initiative, securing additional funding for this cause. Her efforts demonstrate a dedication to nurturing and empowering the next generation, particularly in marginalized communities, by ensuring they have access to essential resources and support.
SAVING OUR HISTORY
Thompson’s role as an advocate for accurate and respectful representation of African American history in educational curricula further highlights her impact. She has been a vocal opponent against the state Department of Education’s lesson plans on African American history, which she and many others view as flawed and offensive. The lesson plans, which suggest that there were benefits to slavery and fail to adequately address the violence perpetrated against and by African Americans, have been a point of contention. Thompson’s objection to these narratives is rooted in a desire for a truthful, comprehensive and respectful representation of history, one that acknowledges the complexities and atrocities of the past without oversimplifying or misrepresenting them.
Her proactive approach to this issue was evident when she hosted a workshop in August in metro Orlando, alongside U.S. Rep. Maxwell Frost, to discuss these new rules with constituents. Her efforts to engage the community and bring national attention to this issue underscore her commitment to educational integrity and her role as a community leader.
FOSTERING POSITIVE CHANGE
Geraldine Thompson’s impact in Orlando and within the Black community is remarkable. Her achievements, ranging from the passage of the Tyre Sampson Act to advocating for better representation of African American history in education, reflect her dedication to public safety, community empowerment and historical integrity. Thompson’s efforts showcase her as a dynamic leader who is not only responsive to the needs of her constituents but also proactive in addressing systemic issues and fostering positive change.
