Rep. Jewell Williams brings a distinguished record of community activism to the House. He has worked tirelessly for more than 30 years on behalf of residents. His genuine interest and concern for ordinary people has been one of the hallmarks of his outstanding career. During the 1970’s, Williams spearheaded the petitioning of the City of Philadelphia for more affordable housing for the poor. Faced with little support as the city was struggling to find solutions for violent youth gangs, he took a bold step and founded the Susquehanna Neighborhood Advisory Council (SNAC) and served as its Executive Director. Under his leadership, SNAC founded a town watch program, the North Philadelphia Community Care Coalition and various advocacy programs for youth and senior citizens. Soon after, he founded the organization's community festival, which is the city’s largest neighborhood festival, attracting thousands of people across the East Coast.

In 1986, Williams graduated from the Philadelphia Police Academy, and joined the Temple University Police Department, while also serving as the university's community liaison. In 1994, he accepted the position of Chief of Criminal Operations for the Philadelphia Sheriff’s Office and, in November 2000, he won election to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives in the 197th Legislative District.

In the state House, Williams has introduced important legislation for the protection and advocacy of senior citizens, and has co-sponsored many measures to improve the quality of life for all Pennsylvanians. In his short tenure, he has gained the respect of his colleagues as a true ambassador and coalition builder. Currently, he serves as Deputy Whip of the House Democratic Caucus. He also serves on the following committees: Urban Affairs where he is Chairman of the Subcommittee on First-Class Cities, Children and Youth, Aging and Older Adult Services and Judiciary. He is a member of the Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus and Chairman of the Philadelphia Delegation. Williams is the Democratic Ward Leader of the 16th Ward of the Democratic City Committee in Philadelphia, and Vice Chairman of the NBCSL Rules Committee.

A recipient of numerous awards and commendations, Williams has addressed a number of diverse audiences throughout his legislative career. He is a Master Mason of the Prince Hall Free and Accepted Masons - 33rd degree, Past Master of Hiram Lodge #5, and a Shriner, Past Potentate. Williams is an active member of the NAACP and serves on numerous independent boards, councils and community organizations. He is the father of three children.