Representative Wendell G. Gilliard

Wendell G. Gilliard was born on July 1, 1954, in Charleston, South Carolina, to the late William and Sinclair Gilliard. He has spent his entire life in Charleston and is a lifelong advocate for his community. Gilliard has three children: April Sinclair, Wendell G., and Keith Demon. Before his political career, he worked as a steelworker and union organizer, serving as President of USW Local for 15 years.

Education

Gilliard attended DeVry University for his higher education.

Political Experience

Gilliard began his public service career as a member of the Charleston City Council for 11 years, where he took principled stands on critical issues. During his tenure, he sponsored legislation to declare the Ku Klux Klan a terrorist organization and was fired from his employment for exposing unsafe working conditions. He also worked to improve public safety and infrastructure in his community.

In 2008, Gilliard was elected to the South Carolina House of Representatives, representing District 111 as a Democrat. He has served in this position for approximately 15 years as of 2024.

Notable Achievements

Gilliard has established a strong legislative record focused on criminal justice reform, education, and public safety:

• Sponsored and passed the Clementa Pinckney Hate Crimes Law, landmark legislation addressing hate crimes
• Sponsored and passed the Body Camera Law, promoting police accountability
• Received a Grade A+ from the South Carolina Education Association for his work to close the achievement gap and improve schools
• Sponsored legislation banning military-style assault rifles to enhance community safety
• Supported removal of the Confederate flag from the State Capitol grounds in 2015
• Advocated for state funding to improve underperforming schools in his district