Denise Majette: “the City of Atlanta, the State of Georgia, and the United States of America mourn the passing of an important civic and…”

“the City of Atlanta, the State of Georgia, and the United States of America mourn the passing of an important civic and civil rights figure. Maynard Holbrook Jackson, Jr. lived as a trailblazer, paving the way for future black politicians throughout the country. Furthermore, Maynard Jackson was not only a prominent political figure, but a man of character as well; strong, genuine, and always full of heart. Former Mayor Jackson was born in Dallas, Texas in 1938 into a family of civil rights activists. This strong background influenced Jackson to become involved in public affairs at an early age. The assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and the birth of Jackson's first child, occurring within days of each other, proved a pivotal turning point in Jackson's life and inspired him to commit to serving the public interest. Jackson demonstrated immense courage when he challenged a popular, long-sitting United States Senator during his first run for public office in 1968. By becoming the first African-American to run for the Senate from the State of Georgia, Jackson cleared hurdles and opened new opportunities for African-American political ambition. Five years later, Jackson once again raised the bar of public service and made history with his successful campaign for the office of Mayor of the City of Atlanta. This victory made Jackson both the first black mayor of a major southern city and, at age 35, the youngest mayor in the United States.”