In a bustling environment like the Texas Capitol, where lawmakers deal with pressing issues daily, a unique voice emerges from the chorus of calls — that of 94-year-old Reta Ward.
Despite grappling with her eyesight and hearing, Ward remains undeterred in her mission to connect with every member of the Texas legislature.
Kimberlee Ralph, an aide to a Democratic state representative, notes how Ward has made a lasting impression with her knowledge of legislative issues and her engaging personality.
Ward’s calls stand out not only for her age but for the wealth of insight she brings, often reminding staffers like Ralph of their own grandmothers and instilling a sense of nostalgia and purpose in their work. Ralph recalls, “In a context where there’s a lot of people with power and money moving through this place, she stands out as like a touchstone of home and reality.”
Driven by a lifetime of experiences, Ward’s interest in politics ignited during her childhood, significantly influenced by political events in Texas. One early memory involves W. Lee ‘Pappy’ O’Daniel’s campaign for governor, where he brought a band to entertain attendees. This vibrant spectacle captured her imagination and fostered her early intrigue in politics.
Moreover, a formative experience came when her mother was called to testify before state lawmakers regarding LGBTQ+ issues, an event that exposed Ward to prejudice for the first time and shaped her understanding of social issues.
“That really made an impression on me,” Ward reflected, highlighting how witnessing the treatment of LGBTQ+ individuals ignited her passion for advocacy.
Over her lifetime, Ward has lived across Texas, including Lubbock, where she developed a keen interest in water policy due to witnessing inefficiencies in water usage. However, it wasn’t until her return to Central Texas in the early 1990s that Ward began to systematically contact lawmakers.
Her motivation is clear: “Somebody has to stand up and say what needs to be done,” she declared passionately. “Somebody has to do it. And it falls on me. Or at least that’s what I feel like I have to do.”
Ward’s commitment to advocacy is exemplified by her phone calls to all 181 state lawmakers during each legislative session, a task she takes seriously. Even in a rapidly evolving political landscape, her dedication to making her voice heard remains steadfast.
Recently, KUT’s ATXplained project facilitated a meeting between Ward and Ralph to delve further into Ward’s political journey and her experiences at the Capitol.
During their meeting, Ralph asked Ward about the impact of her calls, prompting Ward to express her hopes for influence: “I am hoping. I am hoping.”
When asked about the effects of these calls, Ralph affirmed their significance, stating, “It absolutely makes a difference for staff to hear people like you. I have seen that change a vote.”
Reflecting on this affirmation, Ward expressed her surprise and joy, saying, “Wonderful, wonderful. I had no idea.”
The exchange highlights the ripple effects of advocacy, especially from a venerable figure like Ward, reminding us that age does not diminish the capability for influence and that everyone’s voice matters in the legislative process.
As she continues to make her calls, Ward serves as a poignant reminder that engagement in politics transcends age and ability. While her eyesight may be waning, her passion and determination shine brightly, inspiring a new generation of advocates to speak up and make a difference.
Ward’s story is not merely a tale of one woman’s determination; it’s a testament to the vital role that advocacy plays in shaping the future, ensuring that everyone’s perspective remains a part of the conversation in the halls of power.
image source from：https://www.kut.org/politics/2025-06-02/this-texan-has-been-calling-every-state-lawmaker-for-years-atxplained
