Dr. Arthenia Joyner

Dr. Arthenia Joyner, born and raised in Lakeland, Florida, is a revered attorney, legislator, and civil rights icon whose career spans over 50 years of advocacy. As a young activist, she took part in sit-ins and protests at Florida A&M University and was even arrested for her commitment to justice and equality. Later, she became the first Black woman elected to the Florida Senate from the Tampa Bay area, advocating for policies supporting marginalized communities. Dr. Joyner’s work has been focused on expanding civil rights, voting rights, and healthcare access, often using her position to fight for the disenfranchised and underrepresented. Her influence has reshaped Florida’s legislative landscape, establishing her as one of the state’s most respected champions of civil rights and social justice.