James Charles Evers
Broke racial barriers in elected office, expanding representation, access, and participation in his community.
Charles Evers is cheered by well wishers outside his campaign headquarters here after he was elected mayor of Fayette. Mr. Evers won the election for Mayor in Fayette, Jefferson County’s only city, May 13, 1969 by a vote of 386 to 255.
First Black Mayor of Fayette, Mississippi
Mayor Evers & His Administration At Town Hall
Fayette Mayor Charles Evers, flanked by members of his administration, from left, Alderman Will Turner, Howard Chamblis, Isiah Anderson, and Fred Allen, as they stand outside City Hall, Fayette, Mississippi, July 26, 1969. Earlier that month, on July 7, Evers had been inaugurated, becoming the first Black mayor of a biracial Mississippi town since the Reconstruction era.
World War II Army Veteran
Served honorably in the U.S. Army during World War II, defending democratic ideals abroad while facing injustice at home.
NAACP Field Secretary
Organized communities, promoted voting rights, and advanced civil rights across Mississippi during the movement’s most dangerous years.
First Black Mayor
Broke racial barriers in elected office, expanding representation, access, and participation in his community.
Legacy
Shaped a more inclusive democracy by connecting military service, civil rights leadership, and public office into lasting change.
Honor His Sacrifice, Carry His Work Forward
The James Charles Evers Living Memorial Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.