David N. Dinkins, who passed away in 2020, made history when he was elected mayor of New York City in 1989. He defeated runner-up Rudy Giuliani to become the city’s first African American mayor.
Marine Vet Persevered Past Racial Quotas to Serve
Born in 1927 in Trenton, New Jersey, Dinkins attempted to enlist in the Marine Corps out of high school in 1945 but was denied due to racial quotas. He eventually served in the Marines from 1945-1946 after being drafted. Dinkins later became a World War II veteran who used the G.I. Bill to afford higher education.
Dinkins graduated from Howard University with a mathematics degree in 1950. He put himself through Brooklyn Law School while getting involved in New York politics.
Prior Government Roles Set Stage for Mayoral Milestone
Before becoming mayor in 1990, Dinkins gained political experience as a State Assembly member in 1965 and president of the Board of Elections. He later served as city clerk and Manhattan borough president.
Dinkins also held leadership positions with the Black and Puerto Rican Legislative Caucus and the National Conference of Black Mayors.
Inherited Major Fiscal, Social Challenges as Mayor
When Dinkins took office as New York’s first Black mayor, the city faced daunting problems related to crime, race relations, ethics and municipal finances.
Despite clashing with Albany lawmakers over funds and taxes, he increased spending on education and added thousands of police officers. Dinkins also championed affirmative action by establishing set-asides for minority contractors.
Lost Reelection Bid But Remained Active in Civic Life
Dinkins lost his 1993 reelection attempt to Rudy Giuliani as the city’s troubles continued. He later became a professor at Columbia University while staying involved in politics and releasing an acclaimed 2013 memoir, “A Mayor’s Life.”
New York Law School, which considers Dinkins an honorary alum, honored his legacy with a 2017 Civic Fame Award. A Municipal Building in Lower Manhattan was also renamed after Mayor Dinkins in recognition of his barrier-breaking service to the city.
