Former Chicago Alderman and Cook County Commissioner Bill Beavers Dies at 89
Legacy of Service to Chicago’s African American Community
William “Bill” Beavers, the former 7th Ward Alderman and Cook County Commissioner, leaves a legacy of service to Chicago’s African American community (Photo Courtesy of Sean Howard).
A Life of Service and Advocacy
William “Bill” Beavers, former 7th Ward Alderman and Cook County Commissioner, passed away early Saturday morning (Oct. 26) at 89. Surrounded by family, he died of natural causes, according to Sean Howard, a family spokesperson.
Beavers, known for his strong voice in Chicago politics, served as an alderman from 1983 to 2006. He later held the office of Cook County Commissioner from 2006 to 2013.
Opening Doors for Black Entrepreneurs
Through his years in office, Beavers played a pivotal role in opening doors for Black entrepreneurs.
“Bill Beavers will go down in history as one of the most progressive African American Alderman in the Chicago City Council. He was unapologetically Black and proved so by his countless efforts to propel Black businesspersons to engage in city business and contracts,” Howard said.
A Personal Life of Service
Born on Feb. 21, 1935, Beavers grew up in Chicago’s Kenwood-Oakland neighborhood. He was one of six children, raised by a mother who was known for her cooking at their local church and a father who worked in a steel mill before a tragic accident took his life.
After attending Harold Washington College and serving more than 20 years as a Chicago Police officer, Beavers entered politics, winning the 7th Ward aldermanic seat in 1983. During his tenure, he chaired the Police and Fire Committee and the powerful Budget Committee. He used these positions to champion Black businesses, pushing for their participation in city contracts, including securing concessions at Midway and O’Hare airports.
A Force for Change
“He was relentless in his firm approach to former Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley of the need for more Black businesspeople engaging in every facet of city government,” said Cook County Democratic Committeeman and Rich Township Supervisor Calvin Jordan.
Beavers was also instrumental in shaping Cook County’sCounty’s judicial landscape. In the early 1990s, he worked with fellow leaders to create sub-circuit judicial districts, which opened up opportunities for Black lawyers to run for judgeships in the city’s South and West sides and the suburbs. Many African American judges serving today owe their seats to this effort.
Personal and Professional Legacy
Beavers was also deeply involved in the political rise of Cook County Board President Todd Stroger, stepping down as alderman to run for county commissioner in support of Stroger’s campaign.
He was more than a politician, though. Howard shared memories of daily breakfast meetings with Beavers and other political figures, recalling the wisdom, humor, and lessons Beavers shared.
“Commissioner Beavers always reminded us of the importance of keeping your word, standing firm in your beliefs, and knowing that government belongs to the people and not ourselves,” Howard said.
“While he was one of the most powerful figures in Chicago, he always worked even harder at enhancing the upward mobility of the African American community.”
Survived By
Beavers is survived by his two daughters, former 7th Ward Alderwoman Darcel Beavers and Denice Ewing; his son David Beavers, a retired Cook County State’s Attorney investigator; his grandson DeJuan Brown; and his great-granddaughter Dylan Brown.
Conclusion
The passing of William “Bill” Beavers is a loss to the city of Chicago and the African American community. He leaves behind a legacy of service, advocacy, and commitment to the empowerment of Black entrepreneurs. His tireless efforts to promote economic development and social justice will be remembered for generations to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What was William “Bill” Beavers’ tenure as an alderman?
A: Beavers served as alderman from 1983 to 2006.
Q: What was Beavers’ role in promoting economic development in the African American community?
A: Beavers played a pivotal role in opening doors for Black entrepreneurs, pushing for their participation in city contracts, and securing concessions at airports.
Q: What was Beavers’ relationship with Cook County Board President Todd Stroger?
A: Beavers was deeply involved in Stroger’s political rise, stepping down as alderman to run for county commissioner in support of Stroger’s campaign.
