Twenty years ago today, the first Black mayor of Atlanta, Maynard Jackson, passed away

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Atlanta Mayor Maynard Jackson, left, receives a congratulatory handshake from President Juan Antonio Samaranch of the International Olympic Committee after the capital of Georgia won a bid to host the 1996 Olympic Games during an IOC meeting in Tokyo Tuesday night, Sept 18, 1990. (AP Photo/Sadayuki Mikami)
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Twenty years ago today, June 23, 2003, the first Black mayor of Atlanta, Georgia, Maynard Jackson, passed away at age 65. Born on March 23, 1938, in Dallas, Texas, Jackson served three non-consecutive terms from 1974 to 1982, and again from 1990 to 1994.

Jackson, known for his efforts to increase minority representation in government contracts, made significant strides in economic growth within the city.

World heavyweight Champion Muhammad Ali, floored by a soft right that barely grazed his chin, head for the canvas as Atlanta Mayor Maynard Jackson, left, appears pleased with this accomplishment in Atlanta, Jan. 21, 1975. This bit of first-round action was part of a promotional gimmick for black businesses in the city. Ali said after Tuesday night’s bout that the mayor’s trunks had him confused. “They were so high I couldn’t find any place to hit him,” the champ said. (AP Photo)

His leadership played a crucial role in transforming Atlanta into a major economic hub, and the success of Atlanta today is due to the work of Jackson and his administration.

Jackson’s legacy continues to inspire generations of aspiring leaders, highlighting the importance of diversity, equity, and social progress in shaping our communities.


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