Warren Widener facts for kids

Warren Widener (1938–2013) was an important leader in Berkeley, California. He served as the city's mayor and was also a member of the Alameda County Board of Supervisors. He made history as Berkeley's first African American mayor, holding the position for two terms from 1971 to 1979.

Before becoming a politician, Widener worked as a lawyer. He also led the Urban Housing Institute, an organization focused on housing issues. He was born in 1938 in Oroville, California. Warren Widener passed away on June 25, 2013, in Hayward, California, at the age of 75. He served as a captain in the U.S. Air Force. Later, he earned his law degree from Boalt Hall at UC Berkeley.

Warren Widener's Political Journey

Warren Widener began his political career by being elected to the Berkeley City Council in 1969. He served a four-year term there.

Becoming Mayor of Berkeley

In 1971, at 33 years old, Widener decided to run for Mayor. He ran against Vice-Mayor Wilmont Sweeney. Even though he was the first Black mayor of Berkeley, many Black voters supported his opponent. Widener won the election because a large number of university students voted for him.

When the new City Council met in 1971, some members chose not to say the Pledge of Allegiance. However, Mayor Widener and others did participate.

Challenges and Re-election

Many people who voted for Widener in 1971 were progressive. They felt he became more conservative after he was elected. In 1973, Widener supported a group of candidates known as the "Berkeley Four." These candidates were considered liberal Democrats. Student voter turnout decreased significantly that year. Meanwhile, there was a high turnout in the wealthier areas of Berkeley.

In 1975, a group called Berkeley Citizens' Action (BCA) nominated Ying Lee Kelley to run against Widener. This group included progressives and reformers. Widener won the election, getting support from the liberal Berkeley Democratic Club. He defeated both Kelley and Carl Finamore.

End of Mayoral Term

In 1979, the BCA's candidate, Gus Newport, ran against Widener and won. This marked the end of Widener's time as Mayor of Berkeley.

Serving on the County Board

In 1988, Warren Widener successfully ran for a seat on the Alameda County Board of Supervisors. He took over the District 5 seat from John George. However, in 1992, he was defeated for re-election by Keith Carson.

Other Community Involvement

Beyond his political roles, Warren Widener was also involved in the arts. He served as a past-president of the Berkeley Repertory Theater.