Fast Facts About Amani Latimer Burris

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  • Amani considered being a forensic pathologist but could not stand the site of blood

  • Amani is an Advising Assistant to the notable Dr. Opal Lee, a Nobel Peace Prize Nominee, whose impact has been honored by President Joseph Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris and dozens of bipartisan members of Congress

  • Amani started her professional career at the age of 19 as a journalist, has been a small main street business owner and has e a depth of experience in law (Amani’s first official business venture was at the age 12)

  • Amani serves on the Dane County Airport Commission (appointed by Dane County Executive Joe Parisi)

  • Amani has served as a lead volunteer for many years, for Madison’s Goodman Swim & Dive Team, the City of Madison’s only public swim & dive team which has served hundreds of kids and families, from all walks of life, every summer since its inception

  • Amani taught English and history in middle school in Los Angeles

  • Amani is married to Attorney Richard Burris, who serves as a Public Defender; They share two kids Meet Amani’s Family

  • Amani is daughter to Dr. James Latimer and the late Milele Chikasa Anana whose families, on both sides survived the event and are part of the #GreenwoodRising Legacy

  • Amani’s mom was known to some as Bettye Latimer who was elected to the Madison School Board in an unprecedented race (a historical first for Wisconsin at the time). Milele Chikasa Anana Elementary School is named after Amani’s mother (who changed her name in the 90s to a name she chose)

  • Amani extended family (on both sides of her family) has directly impacted two major events in American history: 1921 Tulsa Massacre/ Greenwood and Juneteenth

  • Amani was raised in the family philosophy of Servant Leadership; Amani’s parents have modeled this by serving the Madison community with relentless excellence for over 50 years. More on her Family’s Legacy of Advocacy

  • Amani’s roots are in Madison and she has been shaped and informed by her experience living in different cities over the years from Green Bay to Milwaukee, Cincinnati to Boston, Dallas/Fort Worth to Minneapolis/St. Paul, Los Angeles and even Nante (Oui!)

  • Amani worked in the Wisconsin State Senate for Senator Taylor where she served in outreach, constituent and community services and policy development

  • Amani serves as the Vice Chair of the Democratic Party of Dane County

  • Amani is a Wisconsinite, born in Madison

  • Amani means faith, peace and hope. Her story starts there. More on the Story of Amani