Raymie Parker Honored at “Black Excellence on the Hill”

BOSTON—Stoneham Select Board member Raymie Parker was recognized for her exceptional achievements in the community at the 2023 “Black Excellence on the Hill” ceremony at the Massachusetts State House on April 14. Parker was nominated for this recognition by State Senator Jason Lewis.

“Black Excellence on the Hill” is an annual event hosted by the Massachusetts Black and Latino Legislative Caucus to celebrate Black community leaders and trailblazers from across the Commonwealth.

In 2018, Raymie Parker made history as the first Black woman elected to the Stoneham Select Board, and became the first African American to serve as Chair of the Select Board in 2020. She directed much of the town’s Covid-19 response, and serves as the liaison between the Select Board and the Human Rights Commission, the Conservation Commission, and the Council on Aging. Parker has focused on social justice through her community service work, including serving on the Stoneham Pride Committee and engaging with several local events related to the murder of George Floyd and local racial justice concerns.

“I was proud to nominate Raymie for this well-deserved recognition of her tireless efforts on behalf of the residents of Stoneham each day,” said State Senator Jason Lewis. “Her passionate civic engagement and deep commitment to advancing social and racial justice in the community serves as an inspiration for us all.”

“I am very humbled to be a 2023 nominee,” said Stoneham Select Board member Raymie Parker. “I want to thank Senator Lewis for the nomination, and I share this award with the residents of Stoneham, as they are the reason this was possible.”