Higher Heights Mourns the Loss of New Jersey Lt. Gov. Sheila Oliver

BROOKLYN (Aug 1, 2023) — Higher Heights mourns the loss of New Jersey Lt. Governor Sheila Oliver, the first Black woman to serve in the role. Oliver passed away Tuesday, one day after she was rushed to the hospital for an undisclosed medical issue. 

She was 71 years old. 

Oliver became Lieutenant Governor in 2018, she was the fourth Black woman to become a Lt. Governor in the United States and the first of which to be a Democrat. She also served as the head of the Department of Community Affairs. In 2010, she became the first Black woman to serve as speaker of the State Assembly in the state’s history. She had served in the Assembly since 2004 and served on the Essex County Board of Chosen Freeholders from 1996 to 1999. 

Higher Heights President and CEO, Glynda C. Carr issued the following statement: 

“Sheila Oliver played a critical role in breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for more Black women in electoral politics. As the first Black woman Lt. Governor of New Jersey, she has helped blaze a trail for Black women in statewide politics and nationwide. Sheila has appeared frequently on our annual ‘Chisholm List’ of iconic Black women leaders who have boldly stepped off the sidelines and walk in the leadership and legacy of Shirley Chisholm, “said Glynda C. Carr, President & CEO of Higher Heights for America. “Sheila’s decades of service demonstrated her dedication, service, and inspiration to her work and her vision to see greater possibilities. She will be remembered for her devotion to the people of New Jersey and this nation. She will never be forgotten.” 

Higher Heights sends heartfelt condolences to the Oliver family and loved ones at this time.  

                                                                                                ### 

Higher Heights for America is the only national organization providing Black women with a political home exclusively dedicated to harnessing their power to expand Black women’s elected representation and voting participation, and advance progressive policies from the voting booth to elected office and creating the environment for Black women to run, win and lead. For additional information, visit https://www.higherheightsforamerica.org.