Harold Washington became the first African American to be elected as the city of Chicago’s mayor in 1983. Born in Chicago and raised on the south side in the Bronzeville neighborhood he was a trailblazer who challenged the status quo and courageously demanded equity and justice for communities that had been underserved for generations.

During his time as mayor, Washington created the Ethics Committee, opened government with a Freedom of Information executive order, opened the city’s budget process to the public, and launched a cultural plan for the city that led to additional neighborhood festivals and events, among other achievements.

During his leadership, he became a friend to La Rabida.  Washington visited La Rabida regularly and made it a point to come at the holidays and read “Twas the Night Before Christmas” to our patients.  He recognized that our kids couldn’t be home with their families for the holidays and wanted them to feel remembered.  This treasured annual tradition has continued with every Mayor who has proceeded him.  

“I hope someday to be remembered by history as the Mayor who cared about the people who was, above all, fair.” – Harold Washington, First Inaugural Address, April 29, 1983.

His legacy of bold, compassionate, and courageous leadership lives on and continues to inspire.