Senate Concurrent Resolution 536

(As Adopted by Senate)

A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION COMMENDING AND PAYING TRIBUTE TO HOLMES COUNTY POLL WORKER FREDDIE ANN BYRD FARMER WHO HAS SERVED OVER 69 CONSECUTIVE YEARS IN THIS ROLE AS THE "FRONTLINE OF DEMOCRACY."

WHEREAS, as the nation and electors in the State of Mississippi vote, it is natural to focus on candidates, policies and outcomes of the elections. Yet, behind every successful election are millions of dedicated election professionals and poll workers who make democracy possible. They are often volunteers who rise to the occasion to serve their communities, ensuring that every eligible voter has the opportunity to make his or her voice heard; and

WHEREAS, as we reflect on the importance of free and fair elections, we honor and thank Holmes County Poll Worker Freddie Ann Byrd Farmer, who has served behind the scenes, ensuring that our voices are heard and our democracy remains strong; and

WHEREAS, during her years of working and raising her family, Freddie Ann Byrd Farmer also served her county as a poll worker. She grew up going to the Lexington Courthouse at night with her father where the votes were counted. This instilled in her a strong desire to serve her county in the election process. She began working at the polls in West at the age of 21 and has continued to do so for 69 years. She plans to retire and campaign for her favorite candidates in the future; and

WHEREAS, Freddie Ann Byrd Farmer was born in the Brozville Community of Holmes County near Lexington, Mississippi, on March 14, 1935. Freddie Ann finished high school in 1954. She managed the Ben Franklin store in Lexington for two and one-half years before marrying Melvin Farmer in 1957. She worked at the Kickernick Factory in Holmes County for 15 years and then became the City Clerk in West. She held this position for two years. In 1970, Mrs. Farmer went to work for the US Postal Service, eventually becoming the Officer in Charge at the West and Pickens Post Offices. She retired from the postal service after 26 years to take care of her grandchildren. The role of grandmother is her most cherished role; and

WHEREAS, election poll workers play a pivotal role in upholding the fabric of democracy through their dedication, resilience and service to their communities. Our election professionals and volunteer poll workers are shining examples of nonpartisan cooperation that puts our democracy and country first. They come together each election cycle to help their community vote; and

WHEREAS, it is with great pride that we celebrate the contributions of this dedicated public servant who has made our elections possible in Mississippi:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES CONCURRING THEREIN, That we do hereby commend and pay tribute to Holmes County Poll Worker Freddie Ann Byrd Farmer who has served over 69 consecutive years in this role as the "Frontline of Democracy."

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That this resolution be presented to Poll Worker Freddie Ann Byrd Farmer at a ceremony at the State Capitol, and be made available to the Capitol Press Corps.