Three NC Towns Elect First-Ever Black Woman Mayors
In an historic feat this past election cycle, three towns in North Carolina have elected Black women as mayors for the first time ever.
Melissa Elliot in Henderson, Dr. Linda Jordon in Buttner, and Barbara Foushee in Carrboro are all trailblazing as the first African American women to hold the mayorship in their respective communities after decades of solely white male leadership.
Elliot emphasized the importance of giving voice to overlooked groups after 142 years without diverse representation in Henderson’s top office. “I have a voice, and I’m going to use it, and so I’m an advocate, a strong advocate,” she pledged.
New Mayors Aim To Uplift And Empower
While celebrating barrier-breaking victories, the newly minted mayors also want to inspire greater engagement in public office. Dr. Jordon urged others not to “wait around for someone else to get the job done.”
Instead, she aims for an “inclusive” leadership style that “allows people to have their voices heard” across Buttner.
Meanwhile, Carrboro’s Mayor Foushee represents the possibility of pursuing diverse passions, working as a scientist while leading her town.
Black Women Mayors’ Rise Reflects Growing Trend
Elliot, Jordon and Foushee are joined by eight other African American mayors across North Carolina, including two women, reflecting momentum in local leadership.
Nationwide, groups like the African American Mayors Association (AAMA) work to increase Black representation. The three trailblazing women exemplify the AAMA’s mission to nurture officials promoting equity.
As pioneering mayors, Elliot, Jordon and Foushee now carry the torch in their communities for the next generation of diverse leadership. Their historic elections signal a hopeful shift for North Carolinians of color to see themselves reflected in the highest levels of local power.
