Former Legislator Liz Byrd Dies at 88

CHEYENNE, Wyo-- Elizabeth Harriet Byrd, the first black woman to serve in the Wyoming Legislature died today (Wed., Jan. 28th). The 88-year-old was battling a lengthy illness.

She was remembered fondly at the Capitol, her passing marked with a moment of silence.

Initially denied employment because of her race--Byrd was eventually hired as an elementary school teacher in Cheyenne. She taught for 27 years. Byrd earned her M.A. from the University of Wyoming in 1976.

Byrd served in the Wyoming House of Representatives from 1980 to 1988 and in the Wyoming Senate from 1988 to 1992, becoming the first African-American to serve in both houses.

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