Gus Newport facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Gus Newport
|
|
|---|---|
| Mayor of Berkeley, California | |
| In office 1979–1986 |
|
| Preceded by | Warren Widener |
| Succeeded by | Loni Hancock |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 5 April 1935 |
| Died | 17 June 2023 (aged 88) |
| Political party | Berkeley Citizens Action |
Eugene "Gus" Newport (born April 5, 1935 – died June 17, 2023) was an important leader. He served as the mayor of Berkeley, California, from 1979 to 1986. Later in his life, he helped the community of Gulfport, Mississippi. This was after the area was badly damaged by Hurricane Katrina. Gus Newport was also the second African American mayor of Berkeley.
Contents
Serving as Mayor of Berkeley
Gus Newport became the mayor of Berkeley in 1979. He had strong support from a group called Berkeley Citizens Action (BCA). This group was made up of people who wanted to make big changes. They believed in making the economy fairer for everyone.
What was Berkeley Citizens Action?
The BCA was a group of progressives, radicals, and reformers. These are people who want to improve society. They often push for new ideas and changes. Their ideas for economic reform came from a document written in 1976. This document was called "The Cities’ Wealth: Programs for Community Economic Control in Berkeley, California." It focused on how communities could have more control over their own money and resources.
How long did he serve?
Mayor Newport led Berkeley for seven years. His time as mayor lasted from 1979 to 1986. During these years, he worked to put the BCA's ideas into action.
His Political Beliefs
Gus Newport was known for his progressive political views. He supported U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders in his campaigns. Senator Sanders ran for president in both 2016 and 2020. Newport believed in Sanders' ideas for a more equal society.
