Ed Vaughn, a pioneering figure in Detroit’s Black community, passed away on October 8 at the age of 90. Vaughn’s impact on the city stretched far beyond his role as the owner of Detroit’s first Black bookstore. His legacy encompasses activism, political service, and a lifelong commitment to Black empowerment.
Vaughn’s Bookstore: A Beacon of Black Culture and Activism
In January 1965, Ed Vaughn opened Vaughn’s Bookstore with help from his aunt. At the time, it was believed to be only the second Black-owned bookstore in America. Vaughn’s establishment quickly became more than just a place to buy books.
The bookstore stocked literature on Black history, culture, and heritage – topics often neglected by white-owned stores in Detroit. As a result, Vaughn’s Bookstore became a popular meeting place for leaders in Detroit’s Black nationalist and Pan-African movements.
From Bookseller to Political Leader: Vaughn’s Journey in Public Service
Vaughn’s influence extended beyond the literary world into the political sphere. He worked for Coleman A. Young, Detroit’s first Black mayor, before serving in the Michigan House of Representatives. Vaughn completed two terms from 1978-1980 and later returned to serve from 1995-2000.
His political career was marked by a commitment to public education and economic development. Michigan House Speaker Joe Tate praised Vaughn’s legacy, noting his “fearless and tenacious fight for Detroiters in Lansing.”
A Champion of Pan-Africanism and Racial Equality
Vaughn’s activism wasn’t limited to Detroit. He founded the Detroit chapter of the Pan-African Congress-USA and helped organize the local branch of the Congress of Racial Equality. These efforts demonstrated his commitment to broader racial justice movements.
Rep. Donavan McKinney highlighted Vaughn’s dedication, stating, “His love for Black people and the city of Detroit was backed up in all his actions.” Vaughn’s work during the Black Power Movement, McKinney added, showcased “Detroit’s allure and promise of Black prosperity and possibilities.”
Preserving Vaughn’s Legacy: Plans for Historic Bookstore Restoration
In August 2023, Vaughn’s Bookstore was added to the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing its significance in Detroit’s cultural landscape. Mayor Mike Duggan expressed hope that Vaughn’s passing would add urgency to plans for restoring the bookstore.
“To preserve this history and Ed’s legacy, my team has been working for some time to develop plans to redevelop Vaughan’s Book Store,” Duggan stated. This restoration effort aims to ensure that Vaughn’s contributions to Detroit’s Black community continue to inspire future generations.
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