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John,
This Women’s History Month, we reflect on the extraordinary women who broke barriers and forever changed the course of Delaware’s history. In honoring that legacy, we lift two true forces of nature: Vera Gilbride Davis and Henrietta R. Johnson . Two trailblazers whose leadership in the Delaware General Assembly paved the way for generations to follow.
Vera Gilbride Davis , often called the “Grande Dame of Delaware Politics,” shattered ceilings at every turn. She served as the first female Bill Clerk of the House of Representatives in 1927, went on to become Secretary of State in 1941, State Senator in 1946, President Pro Tempore of the Senate in 1949, State Representative in 1952, and GOP Majority Leader of the House in 1953. Though a Republican, Davis was widely respected for her commitment to collaboration, so much so that Democrats nominated her for President Pro Tempore, a testament to her ability to lead across the aisle.
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Henrietta R. Johnson made history as the first African American woman to serve in Delaware’s General Assembly. A compassionate and determined leader, she championed legislation that was bold for its time, including efforts to support young mothers in continuing their education through access to childcare and healthcare. Her ability to bring people together, grounded in kindness and conviction, made her not only an effective legislator but also an enduring symbol of possibility for young Black Delawareans. Outside of the legislature, she helped to organize the first medical center for low-income people in Delaware, which was named in her honor.
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We also pause to remember two remarkable women we have lost this month, Nancy Cook and Delores Clark.
Nancy Cook, the longest-serving woman in the Delaware State Senate, dedicated 36 years to public service and became the first woman to chair the Joint Finance Committee. A true trailblazer, she was known for her steady leadership, commitment to bipartisan solutions, and her role in shaping state budgets that strengthened Delaware for decades. She leaves behind a legacy of service and mentorship that will have an impact on generations to come.
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Delores Clark leaves behind a legacy of compassion and service, particularly in Sussex County. From her work supporting children at Children’s Village, to fostering animals in need, to helping formerly incarcerated individuals rebuild their lives through The Way Home, she exemplified a life devoted to lifting others. She was a longtime member of Sussex County Democratic Committee and also served as its Corresponding Secretary.
These women helped shape the Delaware we know today. Their legacies remind us that progress is built by those willing to lead, to serve, and to challenge what is possible.
As Women’s History Month comes to a close, we also recognize that the work is far from finished. Across the country, fundamental freedoms, including women’s bodily autonomy, continue to be challenged. Here in Delaware, we remain committed to protecting those rights and advancing equity for all.
There are countless women who have shaped our state and man y more who will. This month, and every month, we honor their contributions and recommit ourselves t o the work ahead.
— The Delaware Democratic Party
Paid for by the Delaware Democratic Party Not authorized by any candidate or candidate committee www.deldems.org
Delaware Democratic Party
P.O. BOX 2065
WILMINGTON, DE 19899
United States
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