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1
SENATE RESOLUTION

 
2    WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois Senate are saddened
3to learn of the death of Lieutenant Governor Sheila Y. Oliver
4of the State of New Jersey; and
 
5    WHEREAS, Lt. Gov. Oliver was a pioneer and trailblazer in
6public service, becoming the first Black woman to serve as
7Speaker of the New Jersey General Assembly and only the second
8Black woman to lead any state legislature in the United
9States; and
 
10    WHEREAS, After years of representing the communities of
11North Jersey, Lt. Gov. Oliver was selected to be Phil Murphy's
12running mate during the 2017 election for governor of New
13Jersey; she was sworn in as lieutenant governor of New Jersey
14in January 2018, becoming the first Black woman to serve in
15that position in the state; she and Governor Murphy were
16reelected in 2021; and
 
17    WHEREAS, At the time of her passing, Lt. Gov. Oliver was
18serving as acting governor while Gov. Murphy was out of state;
19and
 
20    WHEREAS, As a lawmaker, Lt. Gov. Oliver was noted for her
21brilliance and fearlessness, approaching the legislative

 

 

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1process with thoughtful compassion; throughout her political
2career, she remained committed to serving the people of New
3Jersey, making tireless efforts to uplift the community while
4always believing things could become better for individuals,
5the community, and the State of New Jersey; and
 
6    WHEREAS, Lt. Gov. Oliver leaves behind a legacy of
7dedication, service, and inspiration; she will be remembered
8as an accomplished legislator and a cherished daughter,
9sister, aunt, friend, and hero; therefore, be it
 
10    RESOLVED, BY THE SENATE OF THE ONE HUNDRED THIRD GENERAL
11ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we mourn the passing of
12Lieutenant Governor Sheila Y. Oliver of the State of New
13Jersey and extend our sincere condolences to her family,
14friends, and all who knew and loved her; and be it further
 
15    RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be
16presented to the family of Lt. Gov. Oliver as an expression of
17our deepest sympathy.