The Unveiling Came During A Celebration Honoring His Historic Legacy As The First Black Mayor Of A Major American City
Monday, June 30, 2025 — Cleveland — The City of Cleveland hosted the first official Carl B. Stokes Day to honor the life and celebrate the legacy of Carl B. Stokes, the 51st Mayor of Cleveland and the first Black mayor of a major American city. Elected officials, community leaders, members of the Stokes family, and others gathered at City Hall today to commemorate one of the most influential public figures in the city’s history.
“Most folks in this country look at places like Montgomery and Selma as the birthplace of Black political power and the Civil Rights Movement, but I think it’s time, starting today, that Cleveland is mentioned in that conversation as well. Because without Mayor Stokes creating the blueprint, many great Black political leaders would likely not have been elected,” said Mayor Justin M. Bibb. “In Cleveland, we uplift our history and recognize the incredible contributions of those who have made our city a better place – and that’s exactly what this day is about.”
Mayor Stokes was elected in 1967 during the height of the Civil Rights Movement, breaking historic barriers and setting a powerful national precedent for Black politicians in America. His leadership redefined public service with a bold commitment to equity, justice, and community-centered governance. He challenged long-standing racial injustices in housing, education, employment, and public safety, and brought the voices of historically underrepresented communities to the center of civic decision-making.
Mayor Stokes was also a pioneer in the fight for environmental justice, raising national awareness about the harmful effects of urban pollution on low-income and Black communities. He understood that environmental quality and social equity must go hand in hand. That legacy continues to shape Cleveland’s current work, including the City’s updated Climate Action Plan – which centers health, justice, and sustainability for all residents.
Stokes also believed deeply in the power of economic opportunity. His commitment to inclusion helped establish the foundation for the City’s ongoing efforts to support minority-owned businesses and ensure fair access to jobs and public contracts. These values remain central to the work of the Office of Equal Opportunity and reflect the vision of a city that works for everyone.
His contributions and lifelong dedication to public service have been memorialized through the naming of multiple civic institutions – like the Carl B. Stokes Federal Courthouse and the Stokes Wing of the Cleveland Public Library – and serve as a reminder of the progress, resilience, and impact he left on Cleveland.
Today’s recognition – following a resolution introduced by Mayor Bibb and passed by Cleveland City Council – marks the first-ever Carl B. Stokes Day in the city’s history and permanentizes his trailblazing leadership every year hereafter on June 30 to ensure his legacy continues to inspire future generations.
Visit the City’s website to learn more.
Watch today’s ceremony on YouTube.
