Carl B. & Louis Stokes
1925 – 2015 Cleveland, OhioThe Stokes brothers transformed Cleveland and American politics. Carl became the first Black mayor of a major U.S. city, while Louis became Ohio’s first Black congressman.
Carl B. Stokes and Louis Stokes were brothers whose leadership transformed Cleveland and helped redefine Black political power in America. Raised in Cleveland’s public housing, their early experiences shaped a lifelong commitment to public service. In 1967, Carl B. Stokes became the first Black mayor of a major U.S. city, leading efforts in urban revitalization, fair housing, and civic inclusion. His election marked a historic moment for Cleveland and the nation. Louis Stokes became Ohio’s first Black congressman in 1968 and went on to serve for decades, championing civil rights, healthcare, and economic development. Together, the Stokes brothers left a lasting legacy of leadership, representation, and progress rooted in Cleveland.