March 26, 2025 Story by: Editor
La’Tasha D. Mayes was elected to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives in 2022, representing the 24th District in Allegheny County. Born and raised in West Philadelphia, she relocated to Pittsburgh in 1999 to pursue higher education and has since been a dedicated community leader in the region for over two decades.
Mayes earned a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration from the University of Pittsburgh and a Master of Science degree in public policy and management from Carnegie Mellon University’s Heinz School.
As the founder and former president and CEO of New Voices for Reproductive Justice for 18 years, Mayes gained national recognition and a statewide reputation as a steadfast advocate for improving the health and well-being of marginalized communities, particularly Black women, femmes, girls, and gender-expansive individuals.
Her public service includes appointments to the Governor’s Advisory Commission on African American Affairs under Governor Tom Wolf and serving as the inaugural Vice Chair of the Allegheny County Human Relations Commission, where she contributed to expanding civil rights protections for LGBTQ+ residents. Additionally, Mayes has experience working in state government within a House district office and in local government supporting minority, women, and disadvantaged business enterprises (MWDBE).
Notably, Mayes is the first woman to represent House District 24 and the first out lesbian to serve in the Pennsylvania General Assembly. She attributes her passion for justice to her mother, a single parent, Army veteran, and union member, who inspired her commitment from a young age.
Committees and Caucuses:
- Appropriations
- Health
- Housing & Community Development
- Human Services
- Judiciary
- Allegheny County Delegation
- Co-Chair, PA Black Maternal Health Caucus
- Subcommittee Chair, Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus
