JA 2026 Woman of the Year: Deloris Lee
By Alice Thomas-Tisdale
JA Publisher Emerita
The 2026 Women’s History Month theme is “Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future.” Consistently for 40 years, the National Women’s History Alliance has set the standard for identifying women who exemplify the annual observance.
This year is no different: “In this pivotal moment of history, we are called to confront a range of overlapping global challenges: climate change, economic insecurity, healthcare disparities, and threats to democratic participation.
“These issues are deeply intertwined – and women, particularly from marginalized communities, often experience their impacts most acutely. Yet women have also led the charge toward lasting solutions.”
No one more than community organizer Deloris Lee embodies this year’s theme. Therefore, please join us in congratulating Jackson’s shining star on being named the Jackson Advocate Woman of the Year!
If Guinness World Records had a category for most actively engaged community-based memberships, Lee would win hands down.
In addition to her current position with the Mississippi Department of Public Safety, after a long stint with MDOT, Lee works tirelessly on behalf of the Metro Jackson Section NCNW (National Council of Negro Women), Central Mississippi APRI (A. Philip Randolph Institute), HCFDW (Hinds County Federation of Democratic Women), MBWR (Mississippi Black Women’s Roundtable), LWV (Jackson Area League of Women Voters), S.T.A.N.D. (Sisters Taking Action and Nurturing Decision-makers), MIRA (Mississippi Immigrant Rights Alliance), CLM (New National Christian Leadership Movement), MASE/CWA (Mississippi Alliance of State Employees/Communications Workers of America), B.I.G. (Blacks In Government), MS AARP, WFP (Women For Progress of MS), American Red Cross, Heroines of Jericho #699, Progressive Arts and Literary Club, and the NAACP, where she served as Jackson (MS) branch president.
At age 72, Lee is showing no signs of slowing down. She may no longer be the voice you hear billowing from a microphone demanding equal pay for women or prison reform, but be assured, the Memphis, TN native’s dedication to advancing economic justice, strengthening education systems, and building civic power gets noticed. Her stances on voting and worker rights catches the eye of vulnerable communities through her standing in unison at press conferences, organizing voter education campaigns, helping prepare meals and essentials for the underserved, even ensuring there’s a quorum at the monthly meeting, and recording the minutes for future reference.
“Deloris Lee is a quiet storm in the best way,” says Ada Robinson, President, Metro Jackson Section NCNW. “You know the storm is coming because the forecast has predicted it; if she says she will complete a service, you can count on her. After a storm the air is clear, clean, and comfortable. Deloris is able to assess a situation, consider the options, and provide an amiable solution to getting the team to accomplish the task through her hands on, humble service/leadership involvement. Deloris quietly, effectively works in several different community movements sharing that infectious smile and getting God’s work done.”
Union organizer Sachioni Butler concurs. “During this Women’s History Month, we proudly honor Mrs. Deloris Lee for her more than 40 years of unwavering dedication to the labor movement and her community. She has been a steady and powerful voice for working people,” stated Butler.
“Deloris’s tireless advocacy, strength, and leadership have helped open doors for others while strengthening the foundation of our movement. She represents the very spirit of Women’s History Month: courage, resilience, and a deep commitment to justice and equity.
We are grateful for her years of service, her enduring impact, and the path she continues to pave for future generations. Today, we celebrate Mrs. Deloris Lee and lift her up with the highest appreciation and respect.”
Another union organizer who works directly with Lee is former State Rep. Jim Evans. “Deloris works tirelessly for her community; she is part of the foundation for change. President Obama said upon leaving the White House he was returning to his most important job, the job of being a good citizen. From her work with her union, CWA, to her work as a public servant, civil rights, human rights, and worker rights leader, Deloris has always demonstrated the qualities of a good citizen. And for me, she has always been a big part of what we do and a great friend. Enjoy the honor; you earned it!”
Dr. Corinne Anderson, founder of S.T.A.N.D., had no hesitation in saying, “Deloris Lee is the epitome of a community servant. She personifies Romans 14:19: ‘So then we pursue things which make for peace and the building up of one another.’ She is directly involved in local, state, and national service and political projects. Her work truly ‘speaks’ for her.”
Grassroots organizer Kathy Sykes who serves as executive director of MIRA, also chimed in on her longtime friend. “My sister, Deloris Hicks Lee, is so deserving of every recognition that she receives. She is solid as a rock as an advocate for those who need someone to stand in the gap for them. She is always available for her community. Over the years, I have grown to admire her ability to continue in the struggle even when it looks like sometimes your comrades forget whose side they are on. No one can ever say that about Deloris Lee! We have served together on so many organizations and boards.”
Summing up this year’s Woman of the Year is John Graves, President, Mississippi APRI: “Deloris Lee practices the Bible’s ‘Golden Rule’ at every turn,” Graves said in referring to Matthew 7:12, which states, “So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you.”
Deloris and her husband Chester live in Jackson and have two sons, four grandchildren, and one great-grandson.
