[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 105 (Wednesday, July 16, 2003)]
[House]
[Pages H6879-H6883]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
HONORING MAYNARD HOLBROOK JACKSON, JUNIOR, AND EXTENDING CONDOLENCES OF
THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ON HIS DEATH
Mr. OSE. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and agree to the
resolution (H. Res. 303) honoring Maynard Holbrook Jackson, Jr., former
mayor of the City of Atlanta, and extending the condolences of the
House of Representatives on his death.
The Clerk read as follows:
H. Res. 303
Whereas the Honorable Maynard Holbrook Jackson, Jr. was
born on March 23, 1938, in Dallas, Texas, and at the age of
14 entered Morehouse College as a Ford Foundation Early
Admission Scholar;
Whereas the Honorable Maynard Holbrook Jackson, Jr.
graduated cum laude from North Carolina Central University
School of Law;
Whereas the Honorable Maynard Holbrook Jackson, Jr. became
the first African-American Vice Mayor of the City of Atlanta;
Whereas the Honorable Maynard Holbrook Jackson, Jr. proved
to be a gifted and brilliant political leader, and he later
became the first African-American Mayor of the City of
Atlanta;
Whereas, during his years in office, the Honorable Maynard
Holbrook Jackson, Jr. was the catalyst for the design of a
$400 million terminal at Atlanta's Hartsfield International
Airport;
Whereas the Honorable Maynard Holbrook Jackson, Jr. helped
to secure Atlanta's selection as the site of the 1996 Summer
Olympics;
Whereas the Honorable Maynard Holbrook Jackson, Jr. served
as president of the National Conference of Democratic Mayors
and the National Black Caucus of Local Elected Officials;
Whereas the Honorable Maynard Holbrook Jackson, Jr. became
Chair of the National Voting Rights Institute of the
Democratic National Committee;
Whereas the Honorable Maynard Holbrook Jackson, Jr.
established the American Voters League, a nonpartisan
organization committed to increasing voter turnout;
Whereas upon being elected Mayor of Atlanta, the Honorable
Maynard Holbrook Jackson, Jr. began encouraging and fostering
interracial understanding in Atlanta;
Whereas the Honorable Maynard Holbrook Jackson, Jr. was a
strong supporter of affirmative action, civil rights, and the
expansion of social and economic gains for minorities;
Whereas the Honorable Maynard Holbrook Jackson, Jr. was a
great champion for diversity, inclusion, and fairness--not
just in government and business, but also in all areas of
life;
Whereas the Honorable Maynard Holbrook Jackson, Jr. was a
wonderful human being who never wavered from the principles
that guided his life and career;
Whereas the efforts of the Honorable Maynard Holbrook
Jackson, Jr. on behalf on the City of Atlanta and all
Americans earned him the esteem and high regard of his
colleagues; and
Whereas the untimely death of the Honorable Maynard
Holbrook Jackson, Jr. has deprived his community, the City of
Atlanta, the state of Georgia, and the entire Nation of an
outstanding leader: Now, therefore, be it
Resolved, That the House of Representatives--
(1) honors the life and accomplishments of the Honorable
Maynard Holbrook Jackson Jr.;
(2) recognizes the legendary compassion exhibited by the
Honorable Maynard Holbrook Jackson, Jr. as a civil rights
leader; and
(3) extends its condolences to the Jackson family and the
City of Atlanta on the death of a remarkable man.
The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursuant to the rule, the gentleman from
California (Mr. Ose) and the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Davis) each
will control 20 minutes.
The Chair recognizes the gentleman from California (Mr. Ose).
General Leave
Mr. OSE. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may
have 5 legislative days within which to revise and extend their remarks
on the resolution under consideration.
The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there objection to the request of the
gentleman from California?
There was no objection.
Mr. OSE. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
Mr. Speaker, H. Res. 303 introduced by my colleague from the State of
Georgia (Mr. Lewis) honors Maynard Holbrook Jackson, Jr., former mayor
of the city of Atlanta and extends the condolences of the House of
Representatives on his death.
Mr. Speaker, today we do honor a great American leader. Maynard
Jackson courageously guided the city of Atlanta for three terms as
mayor. He was inspired to enter public service, catch this date, on
April 4, 1968, when he was a 30-year-old hard-working lawyer in
Atlanta. Why does that date register with us? On that terribly
bittersweet day, Maynard Jackson welcomed his first child into the
world and Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., was tragically
assassinated. The combination of these two events moved Mr. Jackson to
enter politics.
Only 2 months later, he unhesitatingly launched a grassroots campaign
that challenged, albeit unsuccessfully, a powerful incumbent senator.
His campaign earned him 200,000 votes, but in 1973, he again challenged
a well-known incumbent as he ran for mayor of Atlanta, and this time he
won. He was elected the first black mayor in Atlanta's history.
Maynard Jackson went on to become one of the most influential civic
officials in the history of Georgia, the South and our entire Nation.
Mr. Speaker, last month, on June 23, Maynard Jackson sadly collapsed
and died from a heart attack right here in Washington at the age of 65.
He once was quoted as saying, with perhaps too great an understanding
of the way we tend to simplify history, that ``I could see my full name
will be Maynard Jackson, first black mayor of Atlanta.'' Certainly his
civic accomplishments are not to be overlooked.
Today, we seek to remember him more as the wonderful principled man
that he was with a memorable booming voice and a giant, friendly
handshake. His life was truly one worthy of commendation by this House,
and I am proud that we are taking up this legislation.
I urge all Members to support the adoption of H. Res. 303 that honors
the life and accomplishments of the honorable Maynard Holbrook Jackson,
Jr. I thank my colleague from Georgia for introducing this worthwhile
measure.
Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I
might consume.
Mr. Speaker, Maynard Jackson, Jr., who took on Atlanta's
establishment as the city's first black mayor and later helped plan for
its role in the 1996 Olympics, died last month at the age of 65.
Maynard Jackson first made history in 1973 when he was elected the
first black mayor of Atlanta. He made his presence known immediately by
taking on the predominantly white business leadership and demanding
that doors be opened for blacks. That is why many people called him Mr.
Affirmative Action in this country.
He was reelected to a second term in 1977 where he led the city
through one of its darkest periods, the string of slayings of young
blacks from 1979 to 1981. When he left office after 2 years, barred
from seeking a third consecutive term, he could boast of many
accomplishments, including the expansion of Hartsfield Atlanta
International Airport and the opening of the city's rapid rail system.
A lawyer by training, Maynard Jackson, Jr., was born in Dallas,
Texas, on March 23, 1938, the third of six children. His father,
Maynard Jackson, Sr., was a Baptist minister and his mother, Irene
Jackson, was a college language teacher with a doctorate's degree in
French. When Maynard was seven, his family moved to Atlanta to take
over as pastor of the Friendship Baptist Church.
He enrolled at Morehouse College in Atlanta as an early admissions
scholar and earned a BA degree in political science. He later earned a
law degree from North Carolina Central University.
Maynard Jackson's family was active in early voting rights efforts.
His grandfather was co-chairman of the Atlanta Negro Voters League, and
his father founded the Georgia Voters League.
Maynard Jackson can be credited with not only what was accomplished
[[Page H6880]]
during his terms in office but also for laying the foundation for
Atlanta's continuing success as one of the most desirable places in the
country to live.
Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to yield the rest of the time to
the gentleman from Georgia (Mr. Lewis), the author of this resolution,
a person from Atlanta who is well-known throughout America, to finish
managing our time.
The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there objection to the request of the
gentleman from Illinois?
There was no objection.
Mr. LEWIS of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may
consume.
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to remember, to honor and celebrate a great
citizen and a dear friend, Maynard Jackson.
Maynard Jackson's untimely death was shocking and is still
unbelievable. I have known Maynard Jackson for more than 35 years; and,
Mr. Speaker, I must tell my colleagues Maynard Jackson was a man who
thought the impossible was possible. In 1973, he was the first African
American to be elected mayor of the city of Atlanta. He served 12 years
as mayor of the city.
During his tenure as mayor of Atlanta, he began encouraging and
fostering an interracial understanding, transforming the city into a
new Atlanta, to the gateway to the South, the city that was too busy to
hate. I truly believe that Maynard Jackson must be looked upon as one
of the founding fathers of the new Atlanta, the new South and the new
America.
Maynard Jackson was a strong supporter of affirmative action, civil
rights and expansion of social and economic gain for minorities. As our
current mayor Shirley Franklin stated a few days ago, Maynard Jackson
was a lion of a man. He was a champion of inclusion for all people and
never wavered in his commitment to Atlanta.
In fact, Mr. Speaker, Maynard Jackson helped create an Atlanta that
we all could be proud of. He was not afraid or scared to do what was
unpopular. He was not scared to take a chance. Maynard Jackson was not
afraid to do the right thing.
Because of his leadership, vision and dedication, our city, State and
Nation will never be the same. We will miss you, Maynard. Atlanta will
miss you, the Nation will miss you, but we would never, ever forget
you. You have left your mark on each and every one of us. Thank you for
your service. Thank you for giving your heart and your soul. As you
take your passion and energy to the great beyond, again a grateful
Nation, a grateful people and a grateful city say thank you.
Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
{time} 1100
Mr. OSE. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. LEWIS of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman
from Baltimore, Maryland (Mr. Cummings)
Mr. CUMMINGS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of House Res. 303,
a resolution to honor the former mayor of the City of Atlanta, the
Honorable Maynard Jackson, Jr. And I want to thank my colleague, the
gentleman from Georgia (Mr. Lewis), for this resolution.
It is often said, Mr. Speaker, that when a person dies in our lives,
and if it is somebody who is close to us, a part of us dies. The
untimely death of one of our foremost leaders was a tragedy, and he
will be sorely missed. But as I listened to the gentleman from Georgia
(Mr. Lewis), I cannot help but think about the fact that when Maynard
Jackson became mayor back in 1973 of the great City of Atlanta, I was
graduating from Howard University, and I can remember many of us being
inspired by his leadership and the fact that he was a strong man who
stood up. We had a saying back then, that he did not scratch where he
did not itch and he did not laugh at jokes that were not funny. But he
was a strong man, a strong African American man, and he inspired many
of us student government leaders.
The Honorable Maynard Jackson was a pioneer for civil rights. He
graduate cum laude from North Carolina Central University School of Law
and went on to become the first African American mayor of Atlanta where
he left a legacy of contributions that would pave the way for both
African American leadership in the 21st century and a new standard of
public service and commitment.
After being elected to office in 1973, at the age of 35, which I find
amazing, Maynard Jackson, Jr., began to foster and encourage
interracial understanding as well as serving as a guide in leveling the
vastly uneven social and economic playing fields for minorities. He was
a great advocate for diversity and fairness in all areas of life. The
Honorable Maynard Jackson, Jr., was also the catalyst for the design of
Atlanta's Hartsfield International Airport. He played an essential part
in securing Atlanta's selection as the site of the 1996 Summer
Olympics. He also played an integral role in increasing voter turnout
by establishing the nonpartisan American Voters League.
Finally, Mr. Speaker, Maynard Jackson was an outstanding leader who
was greatly influential. He was and will continue to be held in the
highest esteem by his community, his colleagues, the State of Georgia,
and the entire Nation. We should all aspire to such greatness. Please
join me in honoring his life and accomplishments.
Mr. OSE. Mr. Speaker, I continue to reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. LEWIS of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman
from North Carolina (Mr. Ballance).
(Mr. BALLANCE asked and was given permission to revise and extend his
remarks.)
Mr. BALLANCE. Mr. Speaker, it is my high honor and privilege to stand
and speak today on H. Res. 303, sponsored by my esteemed colleague, the
gentleman from Georgia (Mr. Lewis), which is honoring the late, great
Mayor Maynard Holbrook Jackson, Jr.
It is said that time, like an ever-flowing stream, bears all its sons
and daughters away. I suppose I am unique among the speakers today, in
that I had the great pleasure of meeting and studying with Maynard
Jackson beginning in 1963 at North Carolina Central University Law
School, where I was and he had transferred from Boston. There in
Durham, North Carolina, during a pivotal chapter in the civil rights
struggle, Maynard transferred to be where his mother, Dr. Irene Dobbs
Jackson, was a professor at North Carolina Central University.
We established a close friendship which spanned a period of almost 40
years, through his three terms as mayor of Atlanta and his entering
back into the business world, where he was serving at the time of his
untimely death.
Maynard's contributions to his adopted city of Atlanta and to America
are unparalleled in our times, and he will be remembered as a giant in
not only the political world but in the social and economic world as
well, and his legacy will extend for all times.
Mr. LEWIS of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to my colleague,
the gentleman from Georgia (Mr. Marshall), the former mayor of the city
of Macon.
Mr. OSE. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from Georgia
(Mr. Marshall).
Mr. MARSHALL. Mr. Speaker, I was elected mayor of Macon in 1995.
Macon is a small town of a little over 100,000 people located 80 miles
or so south of Atlanta. One of the first things I did after being
elected was to visit Maynard Holbrook Jackson, Jr.
Maynard Jackson was elected mayor of Atlanta in 1973 at the age of
35, the first African American mayor of a major city in Georgia as well
as the southeast. He served two 4-year terms and became known for
promoting majority-minority partnerships to improve access for African
Americans to the world of contracting and supplying governments.
Maynard Jackson was elected again as mayor in 1989 and served one
term. When I went to see him as a newly elected mayor, it was to get
his advice, any advice he would care to offer. I had no particular
agenda, just a hope that he would impart some wisdom, given his
experience in both government and business. Maynard Jackson spent hours
of his time with me that day.
Of course, I cannot recall all that we spoke of, but I found his
advice very valuable. I will always remember how cordial and engaged he
was, someone who really did not need to give me the time of day, but,
instead, gave me several hours. Maynard and I became
[[Page H6881]]
friends who saw one another infrequently but who always responded
quickly to one another's calls, e-mails, or letters.
The last time I spent any significant amount of time with him was
just this February in Macon at the Georgia Music Hall of Fame for the
opening of an exhibit honoring black classical musicians in Georgia.
Maynard's aunt, Ms. Mattiwilda Dobbs, was the guest of honor for the
occasion; but Maynard was the star who could have easily stolen the
show. Instead, he remained out of the limelight, allowing his aunt to
fully enjoy the attention she deserved as a world-famous artist, the
first African American soprano to perform at the Metropolitan Opera
House in New York.
When I heard of Maynard's passing, I recalled that evening I spent
with him in February at the Music Hall of Fame, and I remembered one
touching incident. As we were all examining the memorabilia gathered
for this exhibit honoring classical American artists of Georgia, the
walls for this section of the museum were covered with photographs.
Maynard grabbed my arm and pulled me toward one. It was a picture of
the Morehouse College Glee Club that appeared quite old. And with great
pleasure Maynard pointed to one of the young men in the picture. It was
his father, a father who had passed away when Maynard was quite young.
Now Maynard himself has passed away too young, leaving us in his
prime, but leaving a legacy of remarkable accomplishments for Atlanta
and all of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, it is right and just that this body
honor Maynard Holbrook Jackson, Jr. with this resolution prepared by
the gentleman from Georgia (Mr. Lewis). Maynard Jackson will be sorely
missed by his family and many friends. May he rest in peace knowing
that his life was well lived.
Mr. LEWIS of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to yield 2
minutes to the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Lee).
Mr. OSE. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentlewoman from
California (Ms. Lee).
Ms. LEE. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the gentleman for yielding me
this time and for introducing this resolution. It gives us the
opportunity to reflect upon a great man.
I rise in strong support of this resolution honoring Maynard Jackson,
most famously known as the first African American mayor of Atlanta, but
who will be remembered for much more than his outstanding service as
mayor to the people of Atlanta.
Maynard Jackson's accomplishments were far-reaching. He was an
extraordinary leader in business, law, and public service. He
successfully brought the world's largest airport, the Olympics, and a
new world-class reputation to the City of Atlanta. Because of his
efforts, the city boasts a booming economic center that is now home to
one of the most prosperous African American business communities in the
world.
The Honorable Maynard Jackson was a staunch supporter and pioneer of
affirmative action initiatives. His legacy is particularly important at
a time when the Nation has renewed its commitment to diversity as a
compeling State interest through the Supreme Court's landmark decision.
The transforming power of targeted efforts toward diversity and
inclusion is clearly evidenced in Jackson's work. As mayor of Atlanta,
he authored initiatives that laid the foundation for many of the
minority firms in Atlanta's thriving business community. Additionally,
Jackson successfully incorporated some of the most marginalized
communities into the core of the city's political activities.
Early in life, Maynard Jackson proved he was exceptional by
graduating from Morehouse College at the age of 18. He also held a law
degree from North Carolina Central University. In addition to serving
three mayoral terms, Jackson created several successful business
ventures. He most recently chaired the Democratic National Committee
Voting Rights Institute.
He believed in serving the larger community, but he also believed in
giving back on an individual level. He did so by serving as a mentor to
many young potential, aspiring, upcoming young leaders. Those leaders
now have great shoes to fill with Maynard's passing, but are able to
step up to the challenge and lead us into tomorrow, a great tomorrow,
because of his care and his guidance.
I honor Maynard Jackson for his life's work. He created opportunities
where none really existed. He advocated for communities that had been
disregarded and disenfranchised. Every leader can learn from the way in
which he facilitated the breaking of racial and class divides to
achieve collective progress, prosperity, and peace for all Atlantans
and all Americans.
To Jackson's credit, Atlanta is now a sophisticated and progressive
city, an example to the country and to the world. His work points the
way to a more equitable society and has left us numerous methods as to
how that society can be achieved. For that, we are deeply grateful.
Mr. Speaker, on behalf of my congressional district, the Ninth
Congressional District of California, who knew and loved Maynard
Jackson, I join today with our colleagues, Maynard's family and
friends, and, indeed, the entire Nation, as we mourn his passing, but
also as we celebrate his life and his monumental accomplishments.
Maynard Jackson will forever remain in the hearts and the minds of the
American people.
Mr. LEWIS of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman
from Georgia (Mr. Scott).
Mr. OSE. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from Georgia
(Mr. Scott).
Mr. SCOTT of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague, the
gentleman from Georgia (Mr. Lewis), for yielding me this time. This is
an extraordinary moment that we pay tribute in these hallowed halls of
Congress to an extraordinary man, an extraordinary American, a man of
soaring magnitude whose contribution and legacy speak right to the core
of the foundation upon which this country was built: that is freedom,
that is equality, that is making the best of us.
Maynard Jackson came on the scene at an extraordinary time in the
history of this country. It was in 1968, when two very monumental
things happened that directed his life from that moment on. In 1968,
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated, and it moved Maynard
Jackson to enter into the world of politics. The second monumental
thing that happened was he chose to challenge Senator Talmadge, a
legendary figure also of soaring magnitude, and in many ways in a
different direction.
That was a monumental crossroads in the history of Georgia and
started us on a path of inclusion for African Americans in the world of
politics, but especially in Georgia. I stand here as a Member of
Congress and unashamedly say to my colleagues that had it not been for
Maynard Jackson taking that chance in 1968 against Herman Talmadge,
many of us African Americans who are in politics today might very well
not have been in politics or had the opportunity.
{time} 1115
Mr. Speaker, in 1968 when Maynard Holbrook Jackson chose to challenge
Herman Talmadge, it opened up a new era. He did not win that election,
but he got over 25 percent of the vote and he set us on a course. The
very next year, 1969, he became vice mayor of Atlanta, the first
African American to do so. Following that in 1973, he was elected to
become the first African American mayor of the City of Atlanta.
During that period, there was a burgeoning of political participation
the likes of which Georgia had never seen. I am a beneficiary of that
because as a kid in 1973 I was out helping Maynard Jackson get elected
to become the first African American mayor of Atlanta. Exactly 1 year
later, Maynard Jackson was in the streets of Atlanta helping David
Scott get elected to the Georgia House of Representatives in 1974, at
that time to become the youngest person to be elected in the history of
the Georgia legislature.
It is so much to contain such a life, but not only in politics.
Maynard Jackson made great contributions in opening up so many doors of
opportunity, not just for African Americans, but for white Americans
and for women, doors that were closed. He built, yes, he built the
Atlanta International Airport. He built it on the foundation of many
others, but it was Maynard Jackson that used that airport to open up
tremendous business opportunities and partnerships for black and white
Georgians
[[Page H6882]]
and for Americans, and for that we are eternally grateful. As I pass
almost two or three times a week, I look down at that point where he
fell in Reagan National Airport, and I say a silent prayer; and that
prayer is Dear God, thank you for sending Maynard Jackson our way.
Mr. LEWIS of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may
consume.
Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank all of the Members who
participated this morning and thank the gentleman from California (Mr.
Ose) for yielding so much time.
Mr. Speaker, I want to say to the family and friends of Maynard
Jackson and to all of the citizens of Atlanta and the citizens of our
Nation that we have lost a son of America, a citizen of the world.
Maynard Jackson was a very proud graduate of Morehouse College. He
loved the school, the glee club; he loved the citizens of our city. He
will be deeply missed, but we take this as an opportunity to honor and
pay tribute to him for all of the good things that he did to make our
city, our State, our Nation, and our world a better place.
Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.
Mr. OSE. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
Mr. Speaker, I do want to add my condolences to those of my
colleagues here. I cannot match their eloquence this morning. Their
words are very well spoken. The majority side concurs in the extension
of condolences to the family. I urge all Members to support the
adoption of House Resolution 303.
Ms. CHRISTENSEN. Mr. Speaker, I join my colleagues today in tribute
to the life of Maynard Jackson Jr. and in strong support of H. Res. 302
which honors the life of this truly outstanding public servant.
Mr. Speaker, Maynard Jackson served as a strong voice for African-
Americans and all the citizens of Atlanta, Georgia. As the first
African-American mayor elected in 1973, at the age of 35, Maynard
Jackson became the first African-American mayor of a major Southern
city and as mayor he dedicated his service to improving Atlanta in all
the ways he could do.
Maynard Jackson was a vocal voice in this country for civil rights
and for increased opportunities for all minorities. By the conclusion
of his first term as mayor of Atlanta, the percentage of city contracts
going to minority-owned firms had increased from 0.13 percent at the
time he took office to 38.6 percent by the end of his term. His
leadership helped mold Atlanta into a city that not only offered hope
and opportunities for African-American businesses, but for all of the
citizens he represented.
Mr. Speaker, Maynard Jackson strongly believed in the ideals of the
Democratic Party and worked diligently to engage more citizens in the
political process. Mr. Jackson served as a much-needed voice for those
at the grassroots level and tirelessly strived to get people involved
in communities across the country.
Mr. Speaker, Maynard Jackson was a selfless leader who strongly
believed in the potential of young people. Helping to invest for a
better future, he gave much of his time in helping to develop their
talents for leadership. As a mentor for these individuals, Mr. Jackson
guided them by communicating about his own experiences to help better
prepare these future leaders for the large task of making all
communities brighter.
Mr. Speaker, Mayor Jackson not only worked hard to make Atlanta a
better city to live in, but also stands out as a role model for all
people. I express my deep condolences to his family and all of his
friends and may God grant him eternal rest.
Mr. OWENS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H. Res. 303, a
resolution honoring the life of Maynard Jackson, Jr. Mr. Speaker,
Maynard Jackson was a shining example of strength, resilience and
undeniable charisma. As classmates at Morehouse College in Atlanta, GA
we had the opportunity to spend a lot of time together as part of an
experimental program sponsored by the Ford Foundation. Even then
Maynard exhibited an intellectual curiosity well beyond his years.
Maynard's strong faith and ability to stand steadfast even during
troubling times served him well after the sudden death of his father.
Many of the skills Maynard developed during his early years at
Morehouse helped him become the first African-American mayor of
Atlanta. Under this leadership Atlanta was well on its way to becoming
the new symbol for the south. Atlanta became an international city
known for it's southern hospitality as well as it's fine dining and
tourist attractions. As the shining example of the new south, Maynard
led the way by introducing new initiatives that helped increase the
number of minority contractors. As a result of his hard work local
businesses flourished and a new generation of African-American
millionaires was born. As mayor, Maynard endured criticism from
proponents of the ``old south'' to lead the city to unprecedented
growth, and prosperity which culminated in the expansion of the Atlanta
airport.
Mr. Speaker, even after Maynard Jackson left office he continued to
fight for the under-served and bring vital financial resources to
Atlanta. His involvement with the U.S. Olympic committee led to
Atlanta's selection as the site of the 1996 Summer Olympics. The city
of Atlanta, the state of Georgia and the nation owes Maynard Jackson a
debt of gratitude. Maynard's foresight and wisdom opened the door for
African-American politicians throughout the nation. Today we mourn the
man, but we remember the contributions he made in the name of fairness
and equality. We will miss Maynard Jackson.
Mr. Speaker, on June 25, 2003, I spoke in memory and praise of
Maynard Holbrook Jackson.
The speech follows:
In Memory and Praise of Maynard Holbrook Jackson
(Speech of Hon. Major R. Owens of New York, in the House of
Representatives, Wednesday, June 25, 2003)
Mr. OWENS. Mr. Speaker, I join with all of my colleagues,
with the family and with all Americans in mourning the
passage of a great political leader and a personal friend,
Mayor Maynard Jackson. I rise to salute the outstanding
achievements of the former Mayor of Atlanta who was also a
national political leader and a major asset of the Democratic
Party. But before I sound the loud trumpets which are
appropriate for the highlighting of Mayor Jackson's public
life, I would like to pause and note my fond personal
memories of Maynard.
In the Morehouse College class of 1956 he was my classmate.
But even more intimate than that space were the roles we
shared as part of an experimental program sponsored by the
Ford Foundation. Maynard and I were two of 30 college
freshmen who had been admitted without completing the last 2
years of high school. Most of the so-called ``Ford Boys''
were 16 years old. Maynard was the youngest at age 14.
Maynard was a native of Atlanta, the location of Morehouse
College. He was a member of one of the oldest African
American leadership families. Maynard even at that early age
had a strong sense of mission and personal responsibility.
Despite his youth he became the host for our group of 30
special students. We were from very different worlds. My
father was a factory worker who had never earned more than
the minimum wage. But during that freshman year Maynard's
father who was the minister of one of Atlanta's most
prestigious churches, died suddenly. My mother also died in
the Spring of that year. Few understand better than I did the
sudden escalated maturation of the 14 year old Maynard. It
was probably the first great crisis of his life but he
rallied his personal resources and he overcame that great
emotional obstacle. It was a challenge which set a pattern
for the rest of his life and career.
My classmate, Mayor Maynard Jackson leaves a clear and
shining legacy for all to see and for African American
leaders to utilize as a guiding beacon. Mayor Maynard sought
power and through a very creative strategy and set of tactics
he won power. But the truly distinguishing achievement of
Mayor Maynard Jackson was his bold and uncompromising use of
his power to further empower the African American community
of Atlanta. In very concrete dollar and cents terms he
confronted the business elite of Atlanta and forced the
opening of new doors of significant business opportunities
for minorities.
Under Mayor Jackson's early leadership as Mayor, Atlanta
City contracts soared from less than 1 percent in 1973 to 39
percent within 5 years. Many of these contracts were related
to the construction of the expanded world class Atlanta
airport. It is believed that several dozen new black
millionaires were created via Maynard's mandated joint
venture models. It is important to note that the airport
expansion was still completed ahead of time and under budget.
For African Americans unprecedented new opportunities were
opened up as a result of the Mayor's confrontation with the
white business establishment. Maynard Jackson could never be
called an ``empty suit'' concerned only with the ceremony and
symbolism of being the first Black Mayor of Atlanta. The
legacy he leaves is a lesson for all African American
leaders: power is acquired for the purpose of empowering
those who lacked power before. Martin Luther King's movement
and the Voting Rights Act were constructed, not to install
peacocks with their limited agendas for personal wealth and
fame; instead the assumption of public office is a method of
extending the struggle.
Let it be noted and fully understood that Maynard Jackson
had to pay a price for his courage and his boldness on behalf
of the continuing struggle. When he left office as Mayor, the
white establishment attempted to lynch him economically by
denying him an appropriate berth in the private sector.
Fortunately, it was one more hurdle which Maynard overcame.
More of the story of the battle of Atlanta must be told in
order for the legacy to be understood clearly. Mayor Maynard
Jackson was more than just a successful politician. He was a
trailblazer, a
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hero who set high standards that all African American public
officials must measure up to in performance.
Ms. MAJETTE. Mr. Speaker, 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. His election marked a turning point for both the City of
Atlanta and our entire nation, as Jackson came to embody a rising
political tide of young and energetic African-American politicians,
along with the likes of Coleman Young and Tom Bradley, who possessed a
sincere ambition to reinvigorate urban politics. The three terms that
Jackson would go on to serve during the next twenty years would make
him the second longest serving mayor in Atlanta history, a milestone in
and of itself.
While each of these accomplishments are impressive and significant,
Jackson's record as Mayor of Atlanta is equally admirable. His record
shows a deep commitment to equality and a bold desire to reform the
traditional Atlanta business community to make it more inclusive.
During his tenure in office, Jackson launched an aggressive program to
increase the number of minority contractors employed by the city. He
also succeeded at creating ``joint venture'' programs in which minority
and white contracting firms worked together for the construction of the
mid-field terminals at Hartsfield International Airport. Jackson's
efforts in reshaping and marketing the city have been credited with
supplying the Atlanta region with much of its growth over the past
quarter century. Maynard Jackson turned what was a regional town into a
national and international business center.
Finally, Jackson gained international prominence during his final
term as Mayor in the early 1990's. Once again, he did his utmost to use
his position to bolster the prestige and notoriety of his hometown. His
most visible accomplishment in office was surely his intimate
involvement in the effort to bring the 1996 Centennial Olympic Games to
Atlanta. We fondly remember the televised images of Mayor Jackson
hugging and congratulating other city officials immediately following
the announcement that Atlanta had been successful in its bid for the
Olympics. Two years later, Jackson went before an international
audience during the closing ceremonies of the Barcelona Olympics and
proudly waved the Olympic flag on behalf of the City of Atlanta and the
United States of America.
In recent years, Jackson sought to extend his sincere commitments to
equality and progress to the national level. Jackson led a national
initiative within the Democratic National Committee (DNC) to encourage
African-American voter participation by heading the DNC's Voting Rights
Institute. In this he sought to empower those who lacked a significant
political voice.
During Jackson's career in public service, his tireless efforts have
transformed a city, empowered its citizens, and brought it
international recognition. Time and again, Maynard Jackson was a strong
advocate for economic equality and high levels of civic participation
within the African-American community. While this is likely the most
noticeable aspect of his legacy, he has always desired to be known for
his accomplishments on behalf of all individuals.
Indeed, our entire nation experienced a great loss when Jackson
passed away on June 23, 2003. He was 65 years old and left behind a
tremendous political legacy. Maynard Jackson inspired an untold number
of potential political leaders, so many of whom will benefit from the
doors that he opened and the barriers that he shattered. He will be
greatly missed by people of all races, Democrats, Republicans,
Georgians and non-Georgians alike.
Public servants such as Maynard Holbrook Jackson, Jr., who have had a
significant impact in local and national politics, leave not only
action, but legacy. As was said upon the passing of John Adams and
Thomas Jefferson, ``They are no more . . . but how little is there of
the great and good which can die! To the country they yet live, and
live forever.''
Mr. OSE. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.
The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Quinn). The question is on the motion
offered by the gentleman from California (Mr. Ose) that the House
suspend the rules and agree to the resolution, H. Res. 303.
The question was taken; and (two-thirds having voted in favor
thereof) the rules were suspended and the resolution was agreed to.
A motion to reconsider was laid on the table.
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