IBLC mourns passing of former Indiana State Senator Earline Rogers
INDIANAPOLIS – On Thursday, Sept. 5, former state senator and Indiana Black Legislative Caucus member Earline Rogers (D-Gary) died. Rogers was 89 years old.
Rogers served in the Indiana Senate for 26 years and in the House of Representatives for eight years. Rogers was a teacher in the Gary public school system for 38 years, and much of her legislative work centered on creating better educational opportunities for Hoosier children. Notably, Rogers authored SEA 316, or Heather's Law, requiring the Indiana Department of Education to work with advocates in crafting a toolkit to address teen dating violence among sixth through 12th grade students.
“Earline was a dear friend and colleague. She was known for being tenacious, or at times a bulldog because she was so determined to be successful and champion the causes she cared about,” State Rep. Vernon Smith (D-Gary) said. “She had a special relationship with legislators from both sides. I replaced her when she went from the House to the Senate in the special election, so I had a couple of decades to work with her.
“She championed some major issues like casino gambling, and people even referred to her as the 'Mother of Gambling.' She also championed the Gary Community School Corporation issues and tried to resolve its monetary problems. Earline's and my families are somewhat connected because my sister-in-law is Earline's cousin. I've always had a good relationship with that family: her husband; her sister, who was an educator; and her children. She will be sorely missed.”
Senator Lonnie M. Randolph (D-East Chicago) said, “Senator Earline Rogers was a trailblazer in every sense of the word. Her dedication to improving education and advocating for the people of Gary, and all Hoosiers, was unmatched. Whether she was fighting for better opportunities for students or leading efforts on major legislation, she always put the needs of others first. Her work to bring casino gaming to Indiana not only revitalized Gary’s economy but also provided immense economic benefits to the state. Her legacy will live on through the countless lives she touched, and she will be remembered as a true public servant. Indiana has lost one of its finest leaders.”
“Earline was a force to be reckoned with,” IBLC Chair State Rep. Earl Harris Jr. said. “She fought for the betterment of our state's education with a passion that is not easily replicated. I want to extend my condolences to Earline's family during this difficult time. We will miss her conviction and determination.”