On This Day in 1927: David Dinkins Is Born

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David Dinkins delivers his first speech as mayor of New York on Jan. 2, 1990, in New York. Dinkins became New York City’s first Black mayor after his historic election in 1989. He died on Nov. 23, 2020, at age 93. (AP Photo/Frankie Ziths, File)
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(AURN News) — On July 10, 1927, David Dinkins was born in Trenton, New Jersey. Elected in 1989, he became New York City’s first Black mayor, serving from 1990 to 1993.

Dinkins described the city as a “gorgeous mosaic” and championed civil rights, LGBTQ rights, expanded HIV/AIDS services, youth programs and community investment. His administration launched the Safe Streets, Safe City program, created Beacon community centers and helped lay the groundwork for the redevelopment of Times Square.

David Dinkins and his wife, Joyce, celebrate with supporters after his victory in New York City’s mayoral election on Nov. 8, 1989. Dinkins became the city’s first Black mayor following his historic election. (AP Photo/Ron Frehm)

His tenure, however, was not without controversy. In 1992, thousands of off-duty NYPD officers staged a riot outside City Hall to protest his support for independent civilian oversight of police misconduct. Officers hurled racist insults and blocked traffic near the Brooklyn Bridge.

Dinkins died in November 2020 at age 93, leaving behind a historic legacy.

Click play to listen to the AURN News report from Clay Cane. Follow @claycane & @aurnonline for more.

Clay Cane is an award-winning journalist, writer, radio host, and political commentator. A graduate of Rutgers University with a degree in African-American Studies, his work on race, culture, and politics have appeared in national publications, including the Washington Post, CNN, and The Grio. Clay is a regular political commentator on MSNBC. Twitter: @claycane

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