Walter E. Washington was a prominent figure in Black history as the first appointed Mayor-Commissioner of the District of Columbia (DC) and later the first elected Mayor of the city. Born in 1915 in Georgia, Washington moved to DC and became involved in local politics and civil rights activism.

In 1967, Washington was appointed by President Lyndon B. Johnson to serve as Mayor-Commissioner of DC, making him the first African American to hold the position. He played a crucial role in advancing civil rights and improving infrastructure and services in the city.

In 1974, Washington made history again when he was elected as the first Mayor of DC under Home Rule, a significant achievement for the Black community. During his tenure, he focused on economic development, education, and housing initiatives to improve the lives of DC residents.

Walter E. Washington's contributions to DC as a pioneering Black leader have left a lasting impact on the city and paved the way for future generations of African American politicians and activists.