Mayor Harold Washington’s Enduring Legacy Honored at Annual Wreath-Laying Ceremony
Friends, Colleagues, and Admirers Gather to Pay Tribute to the Late Mayor
On a cool, mostly overcast morning at Oak Woods Cemetery on Chicago’s South Side, friends, colleagues, and admirers gathered to honor Harold Washington—Chicago’s first Black mayor—and his lasting and incalculable impact on the city and country. The Mayor Harold Washington Legacy Committee hosted the annual wreath-laying ceremony, a tradition that brings together those who knew Washington, worked with him or were inspired by his leadership. Speakers shared memories of a man who led with dignity in the face of adversity and shaped Chicago’s political landscape.
Ald. Desmon Yancy (5th) Reflects on Washington’s Leadership
“There was a sense of pride that ran through the Black community as we watched our dear Mayor Washington lead with dignity in the face of adversity,” Ald. Desmon Yancy (5th) recalled. “Bold, Black, and eloquent and usually the smartest person in the room, I believe that no one was better at linking Black liberation and politics than Harold.”
Guest Speakers Share Memories of Washington’s Leadership
The Master of Ceremony for the event was Andrea Smith of the MHWLC. Among the guest speakers were former State Rep. Mary E. Flowers, State Sen. Mattie Hunter, Rev. Dr. Janette Wilson, Dr. Barbara J. Norman, and 12-year-old King Hutchinson, a student at Burnside Scholastic Academy. Also present were former Ald. David H. Moore (17th) and former Ald. Dorothy Wright Tillman, both of whom had worked with Washington or were deeply influenced by his leadership.
A Brief Overview of Washington’s Life and Career
Born in Chicago in 1922, Washington’s journey from DuSable High School to the U.S. Air Force and later to Roosevelt University and Northwestern University’s School of Law set the foundation for his political career. That career began in earnest when he served in the Illinois State House and Senate before being elected to Congress in 1981. In 1983, Washington was elected the 42nd mayor of Chicago, a historic achievement that would change local politics. He was re-elected in 1987 before his sudden death later that year.
Conclusion
Monday’s wreath-laying ceremony marked 37 years since Washington’s death. His passing left a void in the lives of many, but his legacy continues to inspire and motivate. The annual ceremony serves as a reminder of his commitment to public service and his unwavering dedication to the people of Chicago.
Frequently Asked Questions
* When is the annual wreath-laying ceremony held?
The ceremony is held annually on the anniversary of Mayor Harold Washington’s death.
* Who is the Master of Ceremony for the event?
Andrea Smith of the MHWLC is the Master of Ceremony for the event.
* Who are some of the guest speakers at the ceremony?
Guest speakers include former state and city officials, community leaders, and individuals who worked with or were inspired by Washington’s leadership.
