Thirman L. Milner, the pioneering leader renowned as the first Black mayor of Hartford, Connecticut, and across New England, has passed away at 91. His life and service left an indelible mark on Hartford, inspiring generations as a respected civil rights figure and public leader.
WTNH reported that Thirman L. Milner, a Democrat, served as Hartford’s mayor from 1974 to 1981, marking a significant period in the city's civil and political history.
The Connecticut NAACP made the sad announcement of Thirman Milner's passing on Friday through their Instagram account.
The news echoed with deep sentiment across the community, recognizing the loss of a significant figure who was also a former president of the Greater Hartford NAACP.
Milner's journey to leadership is often cited as a testament to his resilience and dedication to public service. Starting as Hartford's first Black mayor, he broke barriers regionally as the first to hold such a position in the wider New England area. His election was a momentous occasion, bringing hope and representation to many disenfranchised communities.
His tenure as mayor, spanning from 1974 to 1981, was marked by community engagement and efforts to address social inequalities.
As an insightful leader, he worked tirelessly to improve the lives of Hartford residents, echoing his commitments from his time with the NAACP.
During his leadership, Milner advocated for policies that sought to improve the lives of those in marginalized communities. This drew widespread recognition, highlighting his ability to impact Hartford during a pivotal era.
The announcement of Milner's passing prompted a wave of tributes from various leaders and community members. The Connecticut NAACP expressed profound sorrow, noting the lasting impact Milner had as a civil rights icon and committed public servant. They emphasized that his contributions are forever engraved in the state’s history.
Hartford’s current Mayor, Arunan Arulampalam, shared his condolences, hailing Milner as an inspirational trailblazer.
Arulampalam acknowledged Milner’s pathbreaking role and reflected on his enduring influence, offering sympathy to Milner’s family and everyone touched by his enduring legacy.
Governor Ned Lamont expressed his admiration for Milner, crediting him for holding a significant place in American history. Lamont encouraged Connecticut’s residents to remember the extensive contributions Milner made to the state and offered his deepest sympathies to Milner’s loved ones.
Beyond the political sphere, Milner's influence extended into education, evidenced by the naming of Milner Middle School in Hartford in his honor. This continues to serve as a testament to his lasting mark on future generations.
Thirman Milner's story has always been one of perseverance and achievement. His role as mayor provided a pivotal platform for advocating change, serving as an inspiration for ongoing efforts in social justice and equal representation.
His involvement with the Greater Hartford NAACP laid the foundation for much of his work in civil rights, underlining his unwavering commitment to the community's well-being and empowerment.
Reflecting on Milner's career, Councilman Thomas J. Clark spoke about the challenges faced in politics, emphasizing the dedication required for effective leadership. He praised Milner as an example of unwavering commitment to service and described him as a hard-working fighter for justice.
Clark’s remarks provide insight into Milner’s character and the depth of dedication he brought to his role. These qualities have been acknowledged by many who worked alongside him or were impacted by his leadership in various facets of Hartford life.
Milner’s life and service continue to inspire new generations of political leaders and community advocates. His legacy is not just one of breaking barriers, but of advocating fervently for change and equality.
