HARTFORD, Conn — Former Hartford Mayor Thirman Milner died Friday. He was 91.
Milner was the first popularly elected Black mayor in New England. He served from 1981 to 1987.
In a 2016 profile on Milner, then FOX61 Anchor Lorenzo Hall wrote:
He grew up not too far away from the school that now bears his name, raised only by his mother on welfare.
However, that didn’t stop Milner. He headed to New York University to study pharmacy. Shortly after his arrival, he heard Dr. Martin Luther King speak in New York City and that changed the direction of his life.
“He told us, 'I’m not just here raising funds. I’m here recruiting people to get involved in the movement. I need some people to actually get involved.' Something clicked in me. I thought about it. Two weeks later, I’m packing my bags,” said Milner.
He packed his bags to protest segregation in the South. That went on for months until Milner realized his home, Hartford, was much worse. Milner began picketing outside of Connecticut businesses.
“Here, we couldn't even get a job above elevator operator,” said Milner.
Many people took notice and urged Milner to run for state office. He ran, reluctantly, but lost by three votes. "I said 'I'm through with politics. I am done. No more,'" said Milner.
However, years later, Milner ran for state representative again and won. Then, those same friends urged him to run for mayor of Hartford, but this time, many people were telling him no, he couldn't win, including the NAACP.
“As a black, you just can't do it in New England. You have to stay in your place more or less,” said Milner.
Milner didn't stay in his place and went on to win after a bitter campaign.
“I’m looking across the river at Hartford and I look and I said, what did I do? I said here I am, the city of Hartford. The Democratic Party was not supporting me. I had no support at all and I am mayor,” said Milner.
Milner continued in politics, taking pride in bringing jobs and job training programs to Hartford.
However, after years in public office, Milner decided to step down because he had prostate cancer and doctors gave him three months to live. So, Milner took time to start planning his own funeral.
"It was shattering. I sold everything. I gave everything away to my family. I told them to come in the house, take anything you want. I was ready to go,” said Milner.
That was more than 25-years ago and since then, Milner recalls his one regret when he was close to death: wishing he had done more to help underprivileged children in Hartford.
Hartford Mayor Arunan Arulampalam said in a statement:
“Today, we mourn the passing of former Mayor Thirman Milner, a trailblazer whose legacy as New England’s first popularly elected Black mayor continues to inspire us. His commitment to public service and civil rights transformed Hartford and paved the way for future leaders. Thirman embodied resilience and dedication, championing the needs of our community during challenging times. As we reflect on his contributions, let us honor his memory by continuing our work towards building a Hartford that works for all. Our thoughts are with his family and all who were touched by his remarkable life.”
"His passing is a true loss, and I encourage the residents of Connecticut to reflect on the many contributions Thirman Milner has provided our state. I extend my deepest condolences to his family and friends,” said Gov. Ned Lamont.
“Connecticut mourns the loss of a trailblazing civil rights activist and community leader who became the first Black mayor of Hartford and in New England," said Lt. Gov. Bysiewicz.
"The Connecticut State Conference of the NAACP said in a statement, "His tenure was marked by significant strides towards equity, justice, and empowerment for all members of the community. In addition to his role as mayor, Mayor Milner was a proud former president and lifetime member of the Greater Hartford NAACP, where he tirelessly advocated for civil rights and social justice. His commitment to the community extended far beyond his time in office; he was a mentor, a leader, and a voice for the voiceless."
"As we reflect on the life and legacy of Thirman L. Milner, we are reminded of his unwavering commitment to service and justice. He was a true servant of the people, and his impact will resonate for generations to come."
Doug Stewart is the Digital Executive Producer at FOX61 News. He can be reached at dstewart@fox61.com.
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