Tony Yarber facts for kids

Tony Yarber, born on April 16, 1978, is an American pastor, teacher, and politician from Jackson, Mississippi. He became the Mayor of Jackson in April 2014. This happened after a special election, following the death of the previous mayor, Chokwe Lumumba.

Tony Yarber grew up in Jackson and had experience as a city council member. People know him for caring deeply about young people. He is also known as someone who helps different groups work together. His time as Mayor of Jackson ended on July 3, 2017. He was followed by Chokwe Antar Lumumba, who was the son of the former mayor.

Tony Yarber's Early Life and Career

Tony Yarber was born in Jackson, Mississippi, in 1978. His parents are George and Deloris Yarber. He grew up in the Westside Community of the city. He went to Forest Hill High School in Jackson.

Education and Teaching Career

Tony Yarber earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education. He received this from the University of Southern Mississippi. Later, he got a Master of Science degree in Education Administration and Supervision. This degree came from Jackson State University. He has worked as a school teacher. He also served as a principal for an elementary school.

Religious Leadership

Tony Yarber is also a pastor. He started the Relevant Empowerment Church in 2008. This church is open to everyone. He has also been on the Board of Directors for Relevant Ministries.

Personal Life and Hobbies

Tony Yarber is married and has three children. He has a black belt in ninjutsu, which is a type of martial art.

Tony Yarber's Community Involvement

Tony Yarber has been involved in several community groups. These groups work to make Jackson a better place.

Alignment Jackson

He is one of the people who helped start Alignment Jackson. This is a non-profit group. Its main goal is to help students do better in school.

Mississippi Black Caucus

He also served as the second Vice-President. This was for the Mississippi Black Caucus of Locally Elected Officials. This group helps local leaders work together.

Tony Yarber's Political Journey

Tony Yarber began his political career in city government. He moved from being a city council member to becoming the mayor.

Serving on the City Council

In 2009, Tony Yarber first got involved in city politics. He ran for a seat on the Jackson City Council. He represented Ward 6. In 2011, he became the Vice President of the City Council. The next year, in 2012, he became the President. In 2013, he led the Budget Committee. He also chaired the Education/Youth Ad Hoc Committee.

Becoming Mayor of Jackson

Tony Yarber was elected Mayor of Jackson on April 22, 2014. He won in a special runoff election. His opponent was Chokwe Antar Lumumba.

As mayor, Tony Yarber had several goals. He wanted to make city services better for residents. He also aimed to bring new businesses to Jackson. He believed Jackson could grow as a place for entertainment. He also saw potential for it to become a "medical corridor."

On May 2, 2017, Tony Yarber ran for re-election. He was defeated by Chokwe Antar Lumumba in the primary election. He received 5% of the votes, while Lumumba received 55%.