District 40 will always be my home.

My name is Crystal Jackson Parker, and I’m proud to call West Baltimore my home. I’m running to be your District 40 Delegate in Annapolis because I believe in the power of our people, the strength of our neighborhoods, and the promise of a better future for all our families.

I was raised by my grandmother. She was a single parent and a hairdresser who worked tirelessly to provide for me. We didn’t have much, but we had love, faith, and determination. As a little girl, I was happy and active - participating in sports, music, and community activities. But at just nine years old, my life changed forever when I was diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), a chronic autoimmune disease that attacked my kidneys.

Doctors told me I wouldn’t live past the age of 25. They told me I’d face a lifetime of pain, kidney failure, and experimental treatments. Imagine being a child and hearing that your future is so uncertain. Now imagine my grandmother, already struggling to pay rent and put food on the table, trying to afford the medications and specialists needed to keep me alive.

There are two reasons I’m here today at 58 years young: (1) my grandmother’s prayers; and (2) Medicaid. Both saved my life. My experience with chronic illness inspired me to spend my life fighting for healthcare access for everyone. No family should have to choose between paying bills at home or at the hospital.

My story isn’t just about survival; it’s about service. I’ve dedicated my life to Baltimore because I know what it’s like to struggle, and I know what it takes to overcome. I’ve led neighborhood improvement projects, mentored youth, organized food deliveries for families in need, and fought for healthcare access and equity. I’ve worked alongside you, and I’ve seen the strength and resilience of our community firsthand. I’ve spent my life in service because I love the people of Baltimore, and I care for our communities.

I’m running for the District 40 House of Delegates seat because I believe we deserve safe streets, fair housing, affordable healthcare, and clean air and water. I believe in a Baltimore where every child has the opportunity to thrive, where every family has a safe place to call home, and where every voice is heard. My vision for District 40 is rooted in my own story, but it is rooted in your story too. I’ve been a fighter my whole life—fighting for my health, for my family, and for my community. Now, I’m ready to fight for you!

I’m asking for your trust, your support, and your vote! Let's build a stronger, healthier, and more equitable Baltimore. Let’s make it happen in 2026!

Here’s just some of the work I’ve already done in service of the 40th District:

• Former Member, Baltimore Democratic State Central Committee

• President, Gateway Resident Council

• President, North Avenue Hilton Street Business & Community TaskForce (secured $100K public safety and environmental grant)

• Founding Board Member, Agape Youth Center

• Association Member, Hampden Community Council, Coppin Heights CDC, ARCO, Matthew Henson, and Auchentoroly Terrace

• Member, Empowerment Team advocates for Older Adults (secured all COVID resources, including funding for West Baltimore clinic, which vaccinated 1000+ residents, and transportation to 300 polls for the 2020 election)

• Volunteer, Morrell Park Agri-Market (lessen food dessert impact through delivery and pantries)

• Mentor, Mayor's Office of Children and Family Success Youth Ambassador

• Organizer, West Baltimore Census Collective

• Organizer, People’s Action and Progressive Maryland Healthcare Task Force