Ernest N. “Dutch” Morial made history as the first Black mayor of New Orleans. Serving from 1977 to 1986, Morial left a lasting mark on the city. He focused on enhancing tourism, improving education, and increasing diversity in city services. His time as mayor was crucial in shaping the future of New Orleans, paving the way for greater opportunities for African Americans in the city.
A Trailblazing Career
Born on October 9, 1929, in New Orleans, Ernest Morial grew up in the city’s 7th Ward, a neighborhood known for its rich Creole heritage. His dedication to education was evident early on, as he graduated from Xavier University in 1951 with a business degree. Morial made history again in 1954, becoming the first African American to graduate from Louisiana State University’s School of Law. This was just the beginning of a career filled with historic milestones.
Morial was an active participant in the Civil Rights Movement, working with attorney A.P. Tureaud, Sr., and others to challenge segregation. He served as president of the New Orleans NAACP chapter from 1962 to 1965, fighting for racial equality and desegregation in public schools, parks, and transportation. Morial’s legal efforts were instrumental in advancing civil rights in New Orleans, setting the stage for his political career.
Morial’s Mayoral Achievements
In 1977, Morial made history by becoming New Orleans’ first African American mayor. His victory was groundbreaking, as he secured 95% of the Black vote. Morial was known for his focus on economic development, particularly tourism. He worked to revitalize the city’s economy, creating jobs and attracting visitors. His leadership played a crucial role in making New Orleans a top tourist destination.
Additionally, Morial worked to expand job opportunities for African Americans in city services. Under his administration, the number of Black city employees, including police officers, significantly increased. His efforts made city services more representative of the diverse population of New Orleans.
The New Orleans Convention Center and Minority Business Development
One of Morial’s most notable achievements was the creation of the Office of Minority Business Development. This office helped foster economic growth within the African American community, ensuring that Black-owned businesses had the support they needed to thrive.
Morial also oversaw the construction of the New Orleans Convention Center, a major infrastructure project that helped boost the city’s economy. The convention center, which opened in 1985, was renamed in Morial’s honor in 1992, recognizing his significant contributions to the city’s growth.
Challenges During Morial’s Mayoralty
Despite his success, Morial faced numerous challenges during his time in office. In 1979, a police strike led to the cancellation of Mardi Gras, a major event in New Orleans’ cultural calendar. Morial also dealt with the financial difficulties surrounding the 1984 World’s Fair, which failed to meet expectations in terms of attendance and profitability. These challenges, however, did not overshadow the long-term positive changes Morial brought to the city.
Legacy and Recognition
Morial’s impact continues to be felt in New Orleans today. In addition to the convention center bearing his name, an elementary school and the Asthma, Allergy & Respiratory Disease Center at LSU School of Medicine are also named in his honor. Morial’s legacy is also carried on by his son, Marc Morial, who served as mayor of New Orleans from 1994 to 2002.
Ernest ‘Dutch’ Morial passed away on December 24, 1989, at the age of 60. Despite his untimely death, his legacy as a pioneering leader in New Orleans lives on. His work as the first Black mayor of New Orleans continues to inspire generations of leaders striving for equality, progress, and a more inclusive society.
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