Over four decades ago, Harold Washington made history by becoming Chicago’s first Black mayor, breaking through the city’s entrenched political machine.
His election symbolized a powerful moment in American politics, showing that marginalized voices could unite under a single, formidable figure.
As veteran activists involved in this historical moment, we remember vividly the grassroots efforts that brought Washington to power.
From going door to door in the predominantly white neighborhoods of Chicago’s Northwest Side to enduring skepticism and fear from some residents, our work was driven by the belief that City Hall belongs to the people.
In the face of fears that an election win for Washington might lead to a “race war,” we countered those claims through grassroots organizing and voter engagement.
Washington’s support primarily came from Chicago’s Black community, which mobilized an unprecedented effort that registered over 200,000 new voters who turned out in record numbers to celebrate his victory.
Fast forward to today, and the energy behind Zohran Mamdani’s campaign in New York City resonates with those memories.
Mamdani has been leading a robust voter registration effort, yielding significant momentum in the recent Democratic mayoral primary.
Though Washington and Mamdani hail from different backgrounds—Washington from Chicago’s South Side and Mamdani from Queens, born to Ugandan immigrant parents—their paths share commonalities.
In 1983, the powers that be in Chicago’s Democratic machine turned against Washington, instead rallying behind Republican candidate Bernard Epton.
Epton’s campaign relied on the racist slogan, “Before it’s too late,” as the establishment sought to undermine Washington’s coalition.
Despite these efforts, Washington triumphed over Epton in the general election.
Today, tantalizing parallels emerge as Mamdani faces coordinated attacks from establishment figures across both major parties.
He has been labeled as “too extreme” by some Democratic operatives, while even President Donald Trump has called for Mamdani’s deportation.
The tactics of fear may have changed with the advent of digital media, but their purpose remains the same.
Mamdani’s electoral success illustrates that such desperation does not deter voters, similar to how Washington’s coalition overcame the odds in 1983.
Both men have been unafraid to confront issues of systemic racism, economic exploitation, and international human rights.
For instance, Washington openly advocated for the anti-apartheid movement in South Africa, championed issues affecting diverse communities, and once adopted Chicago’s first sanctuary city policy despite federal pressure.
Likewise, Mamdani is vocal about global justice, including support for Palestinian liberation, facing panic from the political establishment.
The old guard reacts not out of fear of danger but fear of effectiveness.
Despite considerable opposition from his own party leaders, Mamdani galvanized voters who came out in record numbers for his candidacy.
Washington, a keen intellect and skilled politician, famously noted that, “Politics ain’t beanbag,” emphasizing the need for strong advocacy and movement-building.
His strategy involved engaging not just friendly crowds but challenging the concerns embedded in segregated neighborhoods.
With charisma, warmth, and humor, he was able to connect with a wide range of voters.
In a similar vein, Mamdani embodies the dynamic, youthful, and diverse demographics of New York City, making it a crucial hub in the global economy.
His willingness to listen and engage across various neighborhoods contributes to the effectiveness of his campaign efforts.
Like Washington, Mamdani stands resolutely against the entrenched status quo, asserting strong policy goals such as public housing, fare-free transit, a $30 minimum wage, and access to community groceries.
His rise has unnerved financial and political elites, much like Washington’s did during his time.
The central question is not whether Mamdani can measure up to Washington’s legacy; rather, it is whether citizens across urban areas and movements can rally alongside him in the battle for freedom and equality.
We believe the answer is a resounding yes.
image source from：chicago
