Walter E. Washington (1915-2003) was a prominent figure in Black history as the first Mayor-Commissioner and later the first Home-Rule Mayor of Washington, D.C. He played a crucial role in advancing civil rights and self-governance for the residents of the nation's capital.

Washington was appointed Mayor-Commissioner of Washington, D.C., in 1967 by President Lyndon B. Johnson, making him the first African American to hold such a position in a major U.S. city. He worked tirelessly to improve city services, increase affordable housing, and promote economic development in the predominantly Black city.

In 1974, after Congress passed the District of Columbia Home Rule Act, Washington was elected as the first Home-Rule Mayor of the District of Columbia. During his tenure, he continued his efforts to strengthen the city's infrastructure, support social programs, and advocate for voting rights for D.C. residents.

Walter E. Washington's leadership and dedication to public service paved the way for greater representation and empowerment of the residents of Washington, D.C. He remains an important figure in Black history for his contributions to civil rights and local governance.