Kansas City's first African-American mayor Emanuel Cleaver II
Cleaver is currently a member of the U.S. House of Representatives.
By: Megan Strickland
Emanuel Cleaver II was Kansas City's first African-American mayor.
He elected in 1991 and served until 1999.
As mayor, he led efforts to redevelop the 18th and Vine District, the beautification of Brush Creek and the establishment of a family division of the municipal court.
In 2004, he was elected to represent Missouri's fifth congressional district in the U.S. House of Representatives where he still serves.
Learn more about Emanuel Cleaver II by watching the video above.
We're celebrating Black History month. Learn more about prominent African-Americans in the Kansas City area:
Kansas City Jazz Pioneer Charlie "Bird" Parker