Turner selected as African American Mayors Association president: 'I look forward to elevating our voices'

Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner was chosen for the role of president of the African American Mayors Association (AAMA) and was sworn in on May 12.

Representing 500 African American mayors across the U.S., Turner's duties will include helping black mayors on critical policy issues, especially issues that affect communities of color. Climate change, black-owned businesses, voter access and police reform will be several focus areas for Turner.

“I am honored to lead the African American Mayors Association," Turner said in a press release. "The nation’s 500+ black mayors play a crucial role in advancing our nation forward. We have a unique understanding of the needs of our local communities and the tailored policies necessary to address them. We are also deeply in tune with the challenges communities of color face and the support needed to overcome those obstacles. As I look to the future of AAMA, I look forward to elevating our voices on the most pressing issues facing our nation. Black political leaders can and should be a driving force on climate change, voting rights and so much more.”

The African American Association welcomed Turner into the role as he replaced McKinley L. Price, mayor of Newport News, Virginia. Turner will serve one term. 

“It was an honor to lead the African American Mayors Association," Price said. "As I reflect on the past year, I am deeply proud of how our organization and mayors led on policing reform, support of HBCUs, COVID recovery and so much more. We speak on behalf of those who are often overlooked and marginalized and advocate for the change our nation needs to create strong equitable communities. I am excited to see Mayor Turner advance the organization even further,” Price said.

Houston City Councilwoman Sallie Alcorn sent her well wishes to Turner on Twitter. 

"Congrats Mayor @SylvesterTurner for taking on the role of president of @OurMayors! Know you’ll do a terrific job," she said.

Before assuming the role at AAMA, Turner was the organization's first vice president and is currently the ninth president since its inception in 2014.

Turner was sworn in as Houston's Mayor in 2015 and has made strides to end homelessness, recommended police reforms to implement, address deficits in the budget and create jobs.