We’re proud to help lead a yearlong series of events to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of Carl Stokes’ election as Mayor of Cleveland. In addition to honoring Mayor Stokes, the celebrations will recognize his brother, Congressman Louis Stokes, in an effort to build on their legacy of leadership and advocacy.

Mayor Stokes became the first African-American to be elected mayor of a major American city in 1967. The Cleveland Foundation supported his historic run for Mayor.

Congressman Stokes became Ohio’s first African-American congressman in 1968 and served 30 years in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Both played essential roles in advancing Cleveland and the nation through their role in the civil rights movement, economic and social justice, education, housing and many other areas.

Stokes: Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future will include community-wide conferences, museum exhibits, performances, lectures and an oral history project. Click here to view a calendar of events. We are happy to partner with the Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel Humanities Center at Tri-C, the Maltz Museum of Jewish Heritage, Western Reserve Historical Society, Greater Cleveland Partnership, and The City Club of Cleveland to celebrate the impact of the Stokes brothers’ vision and leadership.

Save the Date for our March 15 Fred Talks, where we’ll invite the community to reflect on the importance of public service. The event will explore the increasing importance of the Stokes brothers’ legacy of service and activism, as well as ways to engage the next generation of public leaders.