Early Life and Education of Frederica Wilson: A Complete Timeline

Discover the defining moments in the early life of Frederica Wilson. From birth to education, explore key events.

Frederica Wilson is a U.S. Representative for Florida's 24th congressional district, serving since 2011. Her district encompasses a significant portion of eastern Miami-Dade County, including Miami's majority-black precincts. She is known for her political career and advocacy. Wilson also drew national attention for her public remarks concerning the death of Trayvon Martin in 2012.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Controversies & Scandals

November 5, 1942: Frederica Smith Wilson Born

On November 5, 1942, Frederica Patricia Smith, later known as Frederica Smith Wilson, was born.

Others born on this day/year

November 5, 1942: Birth of Frederica Smith

On November 5, 1942, Frederica Smith was born in Miami, Florida, to Beulah (née Finley) and Thirlee Smith.

Others born on this day/year

1963: Earned Bachelor's Degree

In 1963, Frederica Wilson earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from Fisk University.

1963: Marriage to Paul Wilson

In 1963, Frederica Wilson married Paul Wilson.

1972: Earned Master's Degree

In 1972, Frederica Wilson earned her Master of Arts degree from the University of Miami in elementary education.

1988: Death of Paul Wilson

In 1988, Frederica Wilson was widowed when her husband, Paul Wilson, died.

1992: Joined Miami-Dade County School Board

In 1992, Frederica Wilson left her position as principal to serve on the Miami-Dade County School Board and started the 5,000 Role Models of Excellence mentoring program.

2008: Supported Barack Obama's Presidential Campaign

In 2008, Frederica Wilson was an early supporter of Barack Obama's presidential campaign and voted for Obama and Joe Biden as one of Florida's presidential electors.

2011: Anti-Hazing Campaign

In 2011, Frederica Wilson participated in an anti-hazing campaign after the death of Robert Champion Jr., a drum major at Florida A&M.

March 2012: Call for Justice in Trayvon Martin Case

In March 2012, Frederica Wilson called for justice and an end to racial profiling in the Trayvon Martin case, describing the incident as a classic example of racial profiling followed by murder.

March 2012: Comments on Trayvon Martin's Death

In March 2012, Frederica Wilson took a vocal stance on the death of Trayvon Martin, suggesting that George Zimmerman had "hunted" Martin based on his race and should be arrested for his own safety.

April 1, 2012: Organized Rally for Zimmerman's Imprisonment

On April 1, 2012, Frederica Wilson organized a rally in Miami calling for George Zimmerman's imprisonment following the death of Trayvon Martin.

April 2012: Called Martin's death a murder

In April 2012, Frederica Wilson stated that Trayvon Martin's death was "definitely" murder.

2012: Gained national attention

In 2012, Wilson gained national attention for her comments on the death of Trayvon Martin.

July 13, 2013: Zimmerman Acquittal

On July 13, 2013, George Zimmerman was acquitted of the charges of second-degree murder and manslaughter in the death of Trayvon Martin.

July 2016: Reaction to Charles Kinsey Shooting

In July 2016, Frederica Wilson tweeted that she was shocked and angered by the police shooting of Charles Kinsey in her district, questioning the reason for the shooting.