Raychel Proudie: Championing Change in Missouri

Raychel Proudie, a State Representative from North St. Louis County, Missouri, is emerging as a powerful voice for her community. Drawing from her background as a certified teacher and school counselor, Proudie is actively shaping policies and driving investments that directly benefit students, families, and marginalized communities across Missouri.

Championing the CROWN Act and Social Justice

One of Proudie’s most significant legislative accomplishments is championing the Missouri CROWN Act (HB 1900). This bipartisan bill, which she carried, prohibits discrimination based on hair texture and protective hairstyles associated with race. Proudie emphasized the bill’s importance, stating, “We must be much more interested in what we are putting in a student’s head than what’s going out of it,” highlighting its role in ensuring students can learn without facing prejudice or bullying.

Her commitment to social and racial justice extends beyond legislative action; she actively shows solidarity with other lawmakers fighting for similar causes. Proudie expressed admiration for Texas State Rep. Nicole Collier, a Black lawmaker who stood firm in a legislative chamber, noting, “It is not lost on me that yet again a Black woman is putting her body and freedom on the line in defense of, or to save the masses.” She stressed the need for tangible support beyond mere “thoughts in solidarity.”

Securing Investments for Community Growth

Proudie’s influence is also felt in budget and public safety initiatives. As a member of the House Budget Committee, she has been instrumental in securing substantial investments for her constituents. This includes millions for Kinloch, Missouri’s first Black municipality, and Lambert International Airport. She also played a key role in obtaining $100 million in tornado relief for St. Louis, advocating for those affected by severe weather.

In terms of public safety, Proudie has championed significant funding for her community. She secured $27 million for a state-of-the-art police facility in St. Louis County, which features a childcare center for officers and staff. Additionally, she obtained $1 million for the Kathy J. Weinman Shelter, the sole temporary residential domestic violence center in St. Louis County, providing a crucial safe haven for survivors. Proudie also initiated legislation to establish a Juvenile Justice Task Force focused on prevention and rehabilitation.

A Deeply Personal Commitment to Service

Proudie’s dedication is deeply personal, influenced by her late Army veteran father and her mother, a state employee focused on mental healthcare. As a parent herself, she is a proud guardian to her nephew, a student at M.S. Berkeley High School in Ferguson. Her hands-on approach to politics is evident in her community engagement, from delivering meals to seniors to mentoring students.

Academically, Proudie holds a B.S. in Elementary Education and an M.A. in Mental Health Counseling, and is currently a doctoral candidate at Grambling State University. She is also a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Proudie’s consistent delivery on her promises has earned her a reputation as a compassionate and effective legislator who actively implements change, embodying the spirit of “Elevating Your Excellence.”