Early Life and Education of Ras Baraka: A Complete Timeline

How education and upbringing influenced the life of Ras Baraka. A timeline of key moments.

Ras Baraka is an American politician, author, and educator currently serving as the 40th mayor of Newark, New Jersey. A Democrat, he was first elected in 2014 and subsequently re-elected in 2018 and 2022. Baraka's work also includes writing and teaching, demonstrating his commitment to both political leadership and community development.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Challenges & Struggles

April 9, 1970: Ras Baraka's Birth

On April 9, 1970, Ras Jua Baraka was born. He is an American politician, author, and educator who became the 40th mayor of Newark, New Jersey.

Others born on this day/year

1994: Newark Public Schools Under State Control

In 1994, the Newark Public Schools system was placed under state control.

2003: Baraka dedicates book of poems to sister

In 2003, Baraka dedicated his collection of poems "Black Girls Learn Love Hard" to his late sister, Shani Baraka, who had been fatally shot.

2007: Baraka Becomes Principal of Central High School

In 2007, Ras Baraka became the principal of Central High School.

2010: Zuckerberg Donates to Newark School System

In 2010, Mark Zuckerberg donated $100 million to the Newark school system through his foundation StartUp Education.

2013: Baraka Ends Tenure as Principal of Central High School

In 2013, Ras Baraka concluded his tenure as principal of Central High School.

May 13, 2014: Baraka Sworn in as Mayor of Newark

On May 13, 2014, Ras Baraka was sworn in as the 40th mayor of Newark, New Jersey, marking the start of his first term in office.

May 2014: Newark Granted Local Powers Over Budget and Finance

In May 2014, Newark was granted local powers over budget and finance for its schools, but the state retained the right to veto any action and appoint the superintendent.

June 2014: Anderson's Contract Renewed

In June 2014, State-appointed Superintendent Anderson's contract was renewed, despite calls from Baraka for his ouster.

June 2015: Anderson Resigns as Superintendent

In June 2015, Cami Anderson resigned as the state-appointed superintendent of Newark's schools.

2019: Baraka's Marriage and Son's Birth

In 2019, Ras Baraka married political consultant Linda Jumah and they had a son, Jua Nyamekye Imamu Kofi Baraka.

May 2025: Arrest at ICE Detention Center

In May 2025, Ras Baraka was arrested and detained at a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention center in Delaney Hall where he had been protesting and opposing the facility several times beforehand.