Representative Darisha Parker

Darisha K. Parker is a Democratic member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives representing the 198th Legislative District, which encompasses parts of Northwest Philadelphia. A lifetime resident of the district, she was elected in November 2020 and assumed office on December 1, 2020, succeeding Representative Rosita C. Youngblood.

Parker has been an active community advocate throughout her career. As a member of her local Town Watch, she spearheaded grassroots initiatives to protect her communities from violence and assist victims. She also partnered with community members and advocates to support positive spaces for youth engagement as a means to mitigate gun violence. Notably, she led a lifesaving effort that resulted in the secure return of an abducted woman from Germantown.

Education

Parker is a proud graduate of Germantown High School's magnet program. She earned her bachelor's degree in communications from Bennett College, which provided her with skills in transparent communication that she applies to improving her community's quality of life.

Political Experience

Before her election to the House, Parker worked as a legislative assistant for her predecessor, Rosita C. Youngblood, giving her insight into both legislative processes and the priorities of her district. She currently serves as Vice Chair of the PA Legislative Black Caucus.

Parker's legislative priorities include fully funding Philadelphia public schools, addressing environmental justice through increased healthy outdoor spaces and enhanced community and recreation centers, enacting criminal justice reforms, advocating for seniors, and providing affordable healthcare to all Pennsylvanians.