Thirman Milner, First Black Mayor in New England, Dies at 91

Thirman Milner, First Black Mayor in New England, Dies at 91 \ Newslooks \ Washington DC \ Mary Sidiqi \ Evening Edition \ Thirman Milner, the first popularly elected Black mayor in New England and a lifelong champion for civil rights, has died at 91. Milner, who led Hartford from 1981 to 1987, broke barriers and dedicated his career to equity, education, and justice. Tributes poured in from the Connecticut NAACP, Governor Ned Lamont, and others, highlighting his extraordinary legacy in politics and civil rights activism.

Thirman Milner’s Life and Legacy: Quick Looks

• Historic Leadership: Milner was the first Black mayor elected in New England, serving Hartford from 1981 to 1987.
• Civil Rights Advocacy: A former president and lifetime member of the Greater Hartford NAACP, he fought tirelessly for justice and equity.
• Political Career: He also served as a Connecticut state representative and state senator.
• Educational Impact: Milner focused on ensuring access to quality education for all children, regardless of income or background.
• Memoir: His life story is captured in his 2010 memoir, “Up from Slavery: A History from Slavery to City Hall in New England.”
• Global Reach: Milner met and collaborated with figures like Nelson Mandela, Jimmy Carter, Desmond Tutu, and Barack Obama.
• Memorial Plans: The Connecticut NAACP will announce arrangements in the coming days.

Deep Look

Thirman Milner: Breaking Barriers in Hartford and Beyond

Thirman Milner, who made history as the first Black mayor elected in New England, passed away at the age of 91. His death was announced on Friday by the Connecticut NAACP, which praised Milner for his lifelong commitment to equity and justice. “His tenure was marked by significant strides toward equity, justice, and empowerment for all,” the organization said in a statement.

Milner served as Hartford’s Democratic mayor for two terms, from 1981 to 1987, during a transformative period for the city. His groundbreaking election reflected the changing dynamics of New England politics, and his leadership became a symbol of progress and inclusion for Black communities across the region.

From Humble Beginnings to Political Prominence

Milner’s journey to becoming mayor was anything but ordinary. Born to a family descended from enslaved Black and Native American ancestors, Milner was raised by his widowed mother in Hartford. His family’s financial struggles meant that Milner’s upbringing relied on government assistance, which he credited with shaping his commitment to public service and community uplift.

“The proudest thing in my life was not becoming mayor myself,” Milner said in a 2010 interview, “but the fact that it gave my mother a chance to see her youngest son become mayor of the city where she grew up.”

His early life and the values instilled by his mother were key influences on his political philosophy. Milner often spoke of the importance of addressing systemic inequities, ensuring opportunities for underprivileged communities, and fostering educational access for children regardless of their circumstances.

Civil Rights Leadership

Milner’s contributions extended far beyond his political office. He was a former president and lifetime member of the Greater Hartford NAACP, where he spearheaded initiatives aimed at combating discrimination, advocating for civil rights, and empowering Black communities.

Governor Ned Lamont paid tribute to Milner’s dual legacy as a politician and civil rights leader, highlighting his work to ensure equal opportunities in education. “He used his influence to enact positive change in Hartford,” Lamont said, “particularly focusing many of his efforts on the need to ensure that all children—no matter their family’s income level or the neighborhood where they grew up—have access to a quality education that prepares them for success.”

Milner’s work included marching alongside Martin Luther King Jr. during the civil rights movement, a testament to his lifelong dedication to advancing justice and equality.

Transformative Time as Hartford Mayor

Milner’s time as mayor was marked by efforts to address economic disparities, improve housing opportunities, and tackle systemic challenges facing Hartford’s most vulnerable residents. His administration focused on fostering community programs aimed at youth empowerment, job creation, and affordable housing.

Milner’s leadership also paved the way for future generations of Black politicians in New England. His election shattered a racial barrier that had existed for centuries, inspiring communities across the region to demand greater representation in local government.

A Global Legacy

Milner’s impact was not confined to Hartford. Over the course of his career, he met with some of the world’s most prominent leaders, including Nelson Mandela, Jimmy Carter, Bishop Desmond Tutu, and Barack Obama. These encounters underscored Milner’s ability to connect local activism with broader movements for justice and equality on a global scale.

He described these moments as opportunities to learn and reflect on how shared struggles for freedom and rights could inspire change at home.

Memoir: “Up from Slavery”

In 2010, Milner published his memoir, “Up from Slavery: A History from Slavery to City Hall in New England,” chronicling his remarkable life story. The book traced his family’s roots from enslavement to his ascent as a political and community leader.

The memoir offered readers a firsthand account of his personal struggles, his family’s resilience, and his perspective on the role of government in empowering marginalized communities.

Impact on Education

Education was one of Milner’s greatest passions. He believed deeply in the transformative power of learning and worked tirelessly to ensure that children in Hartford and across Connecticut had access to quality schools.

“Education was the foundation of his vision for equity,” said a longtime colleague. Milner championed policies that sought to bridge gaps in opportunity and provide pathways to success for underserved communities.

Tributes and Legacy

As news of Milner’s passing spread, tributes poured in from leaders, colleagues, and community members. The Connecticut NAACP expressed gratitude for his trailblazing career, saying, “Thirman Milner’s life and legacy remind us of the power of resilience, the importance of justice, and the enduring value of leadership.”

While details about memorial arrangements have not yet been released, Milner’s legacy continues to resonate in Hartford and beyond. His life stands as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved through perseverance, vision, and a steadfast commitment to equity and justice.

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