Tim Jones

Mass. State Sen. Linda Dorcena Forry Stepping Down

Linda Dorcena Forry, the only black member of the Massachusetts Senate will be stepping down, according to her office. 

Forry is the state’s highest-ranking elected black official and representative of the First Suffolk District, which includes Dorchester, Mattapan, South Boston and Hyde Park.

She will be taking an executive position at Suffolk Construction as Vice President of Northeast Region, Diversity, Inclusion and Community Relations.

Forry, who is Haitian-American, stunned the political world in 2013 when she won the South Boston/Dorchester seat held for decades by Irish-Americans. 

Forry also hosted the annual Boston St. Patrick's Day Breakfast. It's not clear who will host the event this year. 

"I would like to thank my constituents who have put their faith in me over the last 13 years," Forry said in a statement. "I have been so proud to represent the people of Dorchester, Mattapan, South Boston, Hyde Park and Milton in our state Legislature. Together, we have made great strides in making this a better Commonwealth. Every day of my service, from the moment I raised my hand to take the oath of office in the House Chamber in 2005 to this day, your joy has been my joy, your sorrow has been my sorrow and your fight has been my fight, and each and every day has been a privilege."

She has been an elected official in the state for 13 years. Her official last day will be Friday.

"Linda has been a critical voice in the Massachusetts Senate for those who too often go unheard, and a dedicated leader in creating opportunities for her constituents," said Senate President Harriette Chandler. 

"I wish her the absolute best in her new position, and I know that wherever she goes she will bring the same passion and vigor that she took to the State House every day," she added.

Contact Us