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Annise ParkerAmerican politician
Date of Birth: 17.05.1956
Country:  Operator |
Content:
Early Life and Career
Ennis Parker was born and raised in West Houston, Texas. Her mother was an accountant, while her father worked for the Red Cross. In 1971, when Parker was 15 years old, her family moved to a U.S. Army base in Mannheim, Germany.
There, she volunteered with the Red Cross Youth and worked in a library. Upon returning to the United States in 1974, Parker enrolled in Rice University on a scholarship and worked multiple jobs to cover her room and board. In 1978, she graduated with a BA in anthropology and sociology.
Before entering politics, Parker worked in the oil and gas industry for over 20 years and owned a bookstore. She also led a local civic association and was involved in LGBTQ+, environmental, and historic preservation movements.
Political Career
Parker unsuccessfully ran for Houston City Council in 1991 and 1995. In 1997, she became the first openly gay person elected to office in Houston. She was re-elected in 1999 and 2001.
In 2003, Parker was elected Houston City Controller, a position she held until 2009. In a 2009 video announcement, she declared her candidacy for Mayor of Houston. She campaigned on a platform of public safety and budget cuts, earning the support of various organizations.
After winning the first round of the election in November, Parker advanced to a runoff. On December 12, 2009, she was elected Mayor of the fourth-largest city in the United States, with 53.6% of the vote. She became the first openly lesbian mayor of a major American city.
Parker was re-elected in 2011 and 2013. During her tenure, she prioritized transportation, budget balancing, and appointing a new police chief.
Personal Life
Ennis Parker and her partner, Kathy Hubbard, have been together since 1990. They have three adopted children: two daughters and a son.
