Rebekah Coleman is an African American who made history as the first female magistrate to hold the position and first Black judge in Harper Woods in the city’s 69 yrs history. More groundbreaking, her father swore her in and she assumed office on January 1, 2021.
Rebekah appears determined to make a difference for the people of Harper Woods. She is on a journey to ensure that everyone had access to justice, regardless of race or gender.
Rebekah is thankful for the mentorship by her father, who had guided her through her journey: “(Through) him and other mentors, I have learned practical lessons of wisdom, empathy and how to view the ‘common man’s’ perspective when applying the law,” she stated in an interview with The Michigan Chronicle
She is a master’s degree holder from the University of Detroit Mercy who also grew up in Detroit, Michigan, United States – home to famous personalities: Diana Ross, Stevie Wonder, and Madonna; tennis player Serena Williams among others.
When Rebekah Coleman learned that no woman had ever held the position of magistrate, she knew she had to run. And when she found out that her father could swear her in- making her the first Black judge in Harper Woods history- she was determined to win.
The campaign was tough, but Rebekah’s passion and determination won the day. On January 1st, 2021, she took office- becoming a role model for women across the United States.
Rebekah Coleman who is a veteran lawmaker graduated from Michigan State in 2007 defeated incumbent Daniel Palmer in the November general election and wins the sit by a 53% majority.
Coleman is a former candidate for the 3rd Circuit Court in Michigan. Coleman was defeated in the primary election on August 2, 2016. Coleman ran for election for judge of the Michigan 32A District Court. She won in the general election on November 3, 2020.
