The First Jamaican Deputy Mayor of a U.S. State Capital

This video features an interview with Mrs. Veronica Erie Wilson, a Jamaican-born leader who made history as the first Jamaican Deputy Mayor of Hartford, Connecticut. The conversation covers her life journey, career, and commitment to community advocacy. Key Highlights of Her Journey:     •    Early Years (2:47 - 7:13): Mrs. Wilson shares memories of her childhood in Jamaica, her move to the United States at age eight, and the cultural adjustments she faced.     •    Career and Entrepreneurship (46:18 - 55:10, 56:13 - 1:00:52): She discusses her career in corporate insurance, her transition into entrepreneurship with the Virgin Boutique, and eventually establishing the Erie Wilson Insurance Group.     •    Political Service and Advocacy (1:03:20 - 1:24:58): She details how a group of community leaders, including Colin Bennett, encouraged her to run for office. She highlights her significant impact on the Hartford community, particularly through:     •    Housing: Pioneering the House Hartford program, which provided down-payment assistance to increase home ownership (1:21:20).     •    Education: Advocating for improved school facilities and support programs for new arrivals (1:22:25 - 1:25:00).     •    Civic Engagement: Creating landmarks and resources like the Marcus Garvey Park and the Caribbean Resource Center (1:25:01 - 1:26:38). Reflections and Legacy (1:44:27 - 1:48:42): Mrs. Wilson emphasizes the importance of mentorship and community service. She hopes to be remembered as someone who served, did her best to improve life for others, and mentored future generations to carry that work forward.