United Black Agenda (UBA) Statement on the Retirement of Senator Ronald Rice

The United Black Agenda pays tribute to Senator Ronald Rice for his thirty-five (35) years of dedicated service to the residents of the State of New Jersey. Senator Rice is a crusader for civil rights and social justice and has worked tirelessly on issues which not only benefit his constituents in the 28^th Legislative District but all residents of this state.  

Senator Rice has a long and distinguished history of service as a member of the United States Marine Corp. during the Vietnam War.  He served as a member of the Newark Police Force; as Councilman for the City of Newark; and as the second longest-serving member of the New Jersey State Legislature.  Senator Rice’s years of service proved him to be a person of great integrity, who has honored his convictions and who is guided by a strong moral compass in advocating for issues to which he is committed. For example, his legislative leadership led to the restoration of the right to vote to 83,000 people on parole and probation and the introduction of historic legislation to create a statewide reparations task force. Additionally, Senator Rice championed racial impact legislation, which we advocate for its full implementation and retroactive funding in his honor. 

Senator Ronald Rice will be missed by residents across the State of New Jersey.  The members of the United Black Agenda thank Senator Rice for his service and commitment and wish him well. He embraced the United Black Agenda and made a place for our coalition as part of the New Jersey Legislative Black Caucus meetings and movement. We promise to continue to honor his legacy to continue to fight for equity and justice in New Jersey and beyond.