Robert Henning facts for kids

Robert Henning (born 1943 or 1944 – died August 2015) was an American politician. He made history as the first African-American mayor of Lynwood, California.

Robert Henning's Life and Career

Robert Henning studied sociology and earned a bachelor's degree from California State University, Los Angeles. He worked for the state's Employment Development Department. In 1978, he moved to Lynwood. He first tried to join the Lynwood City Council but did not win that election.

Joining the City Council

In November 1983, Robert Henning was elected to the Lynwood City Council. He was the first African-American person to hold this position. In 1985, he became the vice mayor. Lynwood's population was changing. More Black and Hispanic residents were moving to the city. By 1986, most of Lynwood's residents were from minority groups.

Becoming Mayor of Lynwood

In November 1985, Evelyn Wells was elected to the City Council. She was also African-American and the first woman elected to the council in 20 years. Evelyn Wells suggested Robert Henning for mayor. In December 1985, the City Council chose him as mayor. This made him Lynwood's first African-American mayor.

After the November 1986 election, more Black leaders joined the City Council. On December 2, 1986, the council had trouble choosing a new mayor. Robert Henning decided to resign. This made Evelyn Wells the acting mayor. She became the first Black woman to hold this office in Lynwood. Later, Paul Richards was chosen as mayor.

Second Term as Mayor

In January 1990, Robert Henning was chosen as mayor again. Everyone on the City Council voted for him. In January 1991, he was named mayor for another term.

Leaving Office

In the November 1991 election, Robert Henning lost his bid for a City Council seat. He resigned from his role as mayor early. The remaining council members then chose Louis J. Heine as the new mayor. Robert Henning passed away in August 2015.