By Elena M. Temple
November 3, 2003

Referred to by Washington (DC) Mayor Anthony A. Williams as the "patriarch" of the city, former District of Columbia Mayor Walter E. Washington died October 27 at Howard University Hospital. According to many, including Williams — "Washington (DC) is what it is today because of Mayor Walter Washington."

Appointed in 1967 by President Lyndon B. Johnson, Washington was the first African American to head a major US city. Six months after his election, Washington was challenged with shepherding the city through the riots that occurred following the assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr. A decision often highlighted in accounts of his Administration, Washington refused to allow National Guard troops to shoot looters as ordered by federal officials.

Washington's tenure was marked by many other important accomplishments: he is credited with initiating the model of using business to aid public ventures; and his efforts to integrate the upper ranks of the DC police department resulted in the first African American police chief in the District.

Most importantly, Washington fought for and won home rule for the District. Though Congress maintains control over the city's budget and has the ability to veto legislation approved by the city council, DC residents finally won the right to vote for their leadership in 1973. In 1974, Washington was elected to the office of mayor for one more term.

Loved in all circles, Washington said of his career in public service, "Mine has been a concern for the people, a concern to maintain stability, a concern to get people working together racially, ethnically, rich and poor — all segments of the city." Perhaps the most noteworthy aspect of his time as an elected official is best captured by the Washington Times, "What stood out about Washington's administration was that such words as scandal or corruption ... were never associated with his leadership."

After leaving office, Washington practiced law, helped get the National Museum of African Art placed on the National Mall and worked to establish the City Museum of Washington (DC), which opened recently. In an interview with the Washington Post, Washington said of his time in office, "What I would like to be remembered for is that Walter Washington changed the spirit of the people of this city, that he came in as mayor when there was hate and greed and misunderstanding among our people and the races were polarized. And in the span of just a little over a decade, he brought people together through love and compassion, he helped bring about home rule ... and helped people have more meaningful, satisfying and enjoyable lives."

Williams ordered flags in the District to fly half'staff in Washington's honor. Washington's funeral was held on Saturday, November 1 at 10 a.m. at the Washington National Cathedral.