Historic election marks first Black council member in St. Cloud

In a historic moment for the city of Saint Cloud, a local candidate has made history by becoming the first African American elected to the City Council in 113 years. The newly elected council member emphasized the importance of representation and the need for diverse voices in local governance during their acceptance speech.

Reflecting on their deep family roots in the community, the council member expressed gratitude for the support received from family and friends throughout the campaign. They highlighted the significance of their election, stating that it is long overdue for the city to have representation from the Black community, which has contributed to the city's development over the years.

The council member paid tribute to Dolores McMillan, a pioneering figure in the community who integrated Saint Cloud High School in 1969 as the first Black educator. McMillan's legacy as a trailblazer in education was acknowledged, with the council member expressing hope that future generations will not have to celebrate firsts in representation.

The speech concluded with a heartfelt thank you to the voters of Saint Cloud, emphasizing a commitment to fostering an inclusive future where all cultures and experiences are recognized and valued. The council member's election marks a significant step toward bridging gaps in representation and ensuring that local leadership reflects the diverse community it serves.