Irma Anderson, former Richmond Mayor and political trailblazer, dies at 93.
Irma Anderson, First Black Woman Elected to Richmond City Council, Dies at 93
Background and Accomplishments
Irma Anderson, a trailblazing figure in Richmond’s history, passed away peacefully at her home on Sunday at the age of 93. She made history in 1993 as the first Black woman elected to the Richmond City Council and later became the city’s first and only Black woman mayor in 2001.
Before entering public office, Anderson worked as a dedicated public health nurse, serving the community and advocating for the betterment of local youth and the African American community. Her commitment to improving the lives of others was evident throughout her career.
A Life of Empathy and Service
Irma Anderson was known for her empathetic and servant leadership style, which earned her respect and admiration from the community. Despite her petite stature of 5’2″, she was a giant amongst giants, fighting for the voices of the unrepresented and providing hope in troubled times.
According to her eldest son, Ahmad Anderson, his mother did not seek recognition or fame but rather aimed to deliver the messages of those who couldn’t speak for themselves. She was a pillar for the unrepresented and a beacon of hope for those in need.
A Legacy of Health and Opportunity
Anderson’s dedication to improving healthcare and economic opportunities in Contra Costa County was commendable. Supervisor John Gioia, a close friend of Anderson, praised her ability to see issues through the lens of community and individual health. She was a fierce advocate with a caring bedside manner, always making personal connections and genuinely caring about people.
Furthermore, Anderson played a crucial role in developing after-school programs in Richmond, partnering with the West Contra Costa Unified School District to benefit children throughout the city.
Early Life and Education
Irma Anderson was born and raised near Boston, Massachusetts. She achieved several notable accomplishments before her career in Richmond City Hall. Anderson was the valedictorian of her high school and went on to earn two nursing degrees from Cornell University, where she was the only African American graduate in her class. She later obtained a Master of Public Health from the University of California Berkeley.
A Champion for Public Health
Anderson worked for Contra Costa Health for 20 years before being appointed as the department’s first Black public health nursing director in 1983. She held this position for nearly a decade before retiring in 1992.
During her time as a city leader, Anderson organized and chaired the West County AIDS Task Force, collaborating with local leaders to address the AIDS epidemic that plagued West County in the 90s. Her commitment to public health and advocacy was unwavering.
Remembering Irma Anderson
The passing of Irma Anderson is a significant loss for the Richmond community. Mayor Eduardo Martinez acknowledged her dedication to community enrichment and public service, and former Mayor Tom Butt praised her instrumental role in establishing the Office of Neighborhood Safety, which contributed to a decrease in Richmond’s homicide rate.
A memorial to honor Irma Anderson’s life will take place on February 16 at Easter Hill United Methodist Church.
Family and Legacy
Irma Anderson was preceded in death by her husband, Booker T. Anderson, who was a pastor and civil rights activist. He served as a Richmond city councilmember and mayor in the 1970s. Anderson is survived by her two children, Ahmad and Wilbert.
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– Irma Anderson former Richmond Mayor and political trailblazer
– Irma Anderson Richmond Mayor and political trailblazer.
