Today, the sight of a Black mayor is unlikely to turn any heads or draw any particular attention. But in 1967—during the continuing turmoil of the civil rights movement and two years after the passage of major civil rights legislation—a first generation of African Americans would be elected to helm major American cities and this first wave would go on to irrevocably reshape our American political landscape.
These pioneers, and the many who would follow in their footsteps—including my own father, Ernest N. "Dutch" Morial, who was elected the first Black mayor of New Orleans in 1977—came to power during turbulent times in our country. To be an African-American mayor, especially during the polarizing struggle of Black Americans and other marginalized groups to be fully incorporated into American society, was an incredible feat. These early pioneers aspired to political office at a time that was not so far removed from lynchings, segregated schools, and anti-miscegenation laws. Every step, every vote and every position attained was marred and marked by transparently racial barriers, and every victory was made all the more sweet by overcoming them.
Committed to overcoming inequality, the first wave of African-American mayors tackled an array of urban problems from poverty to discrimination and local civil rights issues to high unemployment rates—all while responding to the needs of their wider constituency. Between 1967 and 1995, it is estimated that almost 400 African Americans—including women—have been elected to lead their cities, large or small.
Mayor Richard Hatcher is a storied figure in Gary, Indiana and a storied figure in American politics. He was one of the first Black mayors to lead a major city and demonstrate that nimbleness and gift for strategy that not only got him elected, but kept him in office for five terms. For his part in shattering that glass ceiling for Black politicians and inspiring others to aspire for higher political office, the National Urban League will honor Mayor Hatcher during our annual conference this year, recognizing his historic achievement and lasting legacy.