Biography

Ismail "Izzy" Smith-Wade-El, born in 1989 or 1990 in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, is a Democratic member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, representing the 49th District since December 1, 2022. He is the first Black and first LGBTQ representative for this district. Prior to his election to the state legislature, Smith-Wade-El served as President of Lancaster City Council from 2017 to 2022. During his tenure, he secured significant investments in affordable housing and lead removal, championed the decriminalization of cannabis, and advocated for police accountability reforms.

Education and Political Experience

• Education: Bachelor of Arts in Theatre and Anthropology from Carnegie Mellon University, 2014.

• Political Experience:

  • President of Lancaster City Council
  • Member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, District 49
  • Committee assignments include Aging & Older Adult Services, Education, Housing & Community Development, Local Government, and Professional Licensure.

Smith-Wade-El's legislative focus encompasses affordable housing, education reform, and fair wages for Pennsylvania workers. He has also been active in advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, co-sponsoring the Fairness Act to ban discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity.