Former Hartford Mayor Thirman Milner Dies at 91
Former Hartford mayor Thirman Milner, known for becoming the first Black mayor in all of New England, has died at the age of 91, officials confirmed to NBC Connecticut.
Career and Legacy
Milner became the first African-American elected mayor in New England in 1981, serving the city of Hartford until 1987. He also served as a state representative and a state senator.
The Connecticut National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) said Milner will be remembered as a civil rights icon, community activist, and dedicated public servant.
NAACP Statement
The NAACP said Milner broke barriers and paved the way for future leaders in the city and region, which had long been defined by racial and social injustices.
Personal Life and Tributes
Milner served as president of the Greater Hartford NAACP and was a lifelong member.
“The Connecticut State Conference of the NAACP extends its heartfelt condolences to Mayor Milner’s family, friends, and former constituents during this difficult time. His contributions to Hartford and the broader New England community have left an indelible mark, and he will be deeply missed,” President of the Connecticut State Conference NAACP Scot Esdaile said in a statement.
Virginia Monteiro, who’s Milner’s step-daughter and a part of the NAACP, said her “Pops” represented a fight that continues to ensure children are educated, and freedom.
“It’s very important for us to continue the legacy that he set for all of us,” Monteiro said. “He was very much devoted to ensuring that there was equity and justice for everyone.”
Funeral Arrangements and Legacy
The NAACP said they will provide information about funeral arrangements for Milner as soon as it’s made available by his family.
A middle school in Hartford is named after him – Thirman L. Milner Middle School.
Community Reaction
Current Hartford Mayor Arunan Arulampalam
“Today, we mourn the passing of former Mayor Thirman Milner, a trailblazer whose legacy as New England’s first popularly elected Black mayor continues to inspire us. His commitment to public service and civil rights transformed Hartford and paved the way for future leaders. Thirman embodied resilience and dedication, championing the needs of our community during challenging times. As we reflect on his contributions, let us honor his memory by continuing our work towards building a Hartford that works for all. Our thoughts are with his family and all who were touched by his remarkable life.”
Gov. Ned Lamont
“His upbringing here in Connecticut led him to a career in activism, marching with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in the sixties and using his passion for social justice as inspiration that led him to a career in politics. As a mayor, state representative, and state senator, he used his influence to enact positive change in Hartford, 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. His passing is a true loss, and I encourage the residents of Connecticut to reflect on the many contributions Thirman Milner has provided our state. I extend my deepest condolences to his family and friends.”
Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz
“Connecticut mourns the loss of a trailblazing civil rights activist and community leader who became the first Black mayor of Hartford and in New England. Thirman led our capitol city with civility, integrity, and grace, leaving a legacy that is memorialized with a school, Thirman L. Milner Middle School, named in his honor. His decades of activism and advocacy paved the way for other leaders of color, and I know that his life will continue to inspire generations to come. We are sending our sympathy and prayers to his loved ones.”
Conclusion
Thirman Milner’s life was a testament to his unwavering commitment to public service, civil rights, and community activism. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations to strive for equality and justice.
FAQs
Q: What was Thirman Milner’s significance in New England politics?
A: Thirman Milner was the first Black mayor in New England, serving the city of Hartford from 1981 to 1987.
Q: What were some of Thirman Milner’s accomplishments as mayor and state senator?
A: Milner focused on ensuring that all children, regardless of income level or neighborhood, had access to quality education and worked towards building a more equitable Hartford.
Q: What is being said about Thirman Milner’s passing?
A: Community leaders and politicians are mourning the loss of a trailblazing civil rights activist and community leader who made a significant impact on Hartford and New England politics.
