Craighead County

Shamal Carter is an author, advocate, community leader, and the Democratic nominee for Arkansas House of Representatives District 36. A native of Wynne, Arkansas, who now resides in Jonesboro, Carter is dedicated to advancing justice, civil rights, mental health awareness, foster care advocacy, and community empowerment throughout the state.

Known for his grassroots leadership and unwavering commitment to service, Carter has worked extensively to uplift underserved communities through civic engagement, youth advocacy, violence prevention, and public outreach initiatives. He earned his undergraduate degree from John Wesley University and has become a respected voice in community organizing, advocacy, and leadership development across Northeast Arkansas.

Carter is the founder of Family Voices Strengthening Arkansas (FVSA), an organization focused on empowering families, advocating for children, and strengthening community support systems across Arkansas. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Jonesboro Development Corporation and Arkansas Early Learning, where he also serves as Policy Council Chair. He is an advisor for the Arkansas State University NAACP, a founding board member of ABLE Bridges, serves as Community Liaison for Arkansas Delta Community Connections, and is a proud member of Hiram of Tyre Ancient Free and Accepted Masonic Lodge No. 07.

He has also served on the Governing Board of Directors for CASA, supporting advocacy efforts for children and families within the foster care and juvenile justice systems.  His leadership and service have earned numerous honors, including the MLK Community Service Award, AKA Social Justice Advocate of the Year Award, Omega Psi Phi Citizen of the Year Award, God’s Man of Standard Award, and the Arkansas State University Living Legend Award. During his tenure as president of the local NAACP chapter, the organization also received an official proclamation from the City of Jonesboro recognizing its impact and advocacy efforts within the community.

Through advocacy, mentorship, and public service, Carter continues working to strengthen communities and create pathways for equity, opportunity, and lasting change across Arkansas.