William McCoy (Oregon politician) facts for kids
William McCoy (born June 11, 1921 – died April 1996) was an important American politician from Oregon. A politician is someone who works in government to make decisions and laws for the people. In 1972, he made history by becoming the first African American person elected to the Oregon State Legislature. The legislature is like a big meeting where elected officials create laws for the state.
After serving one term in the Oregon House of Representatives, which is one part of the legislature, he was chosen to serve in the Oregon Senate. The Senate is the other part of the legislature. He was then elected to this Senate seat and continued to serve until he passed away in 1996. His area, called a senate district, included North Portland and a large part of Northeast Portland. He was a member of the Democratic Party.
William McCoy's Early Life and Education
William McCoy was born in Indianola, Mississippi on June 11, 1921. He went to high school in Missouri. Later, he studied political science for three years at Lincoln University. Political science is the study of how governments work.
In 1942, he joined the U.S. Navy and served for three years during World War II. After the war, he moved to Portland, Oregon. He earned a college degree in business and political science from the University of Portland. He also took more classes in public administration at the University of Oregon. Public administration is about how government services are managed.
Making a Difference: McCoy's Political Career
When William McCoy was first elected to the Oregon legislature, he quickly got to work. One of his first actions was to introduce House Resolution 13. This resolution was about formally approving the Fourteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.
The Fourteenth Amendment is a very important part of the U.S. Constitution. It gives equal protection and rights to all citizens. Oregon had not officially approved this amendment before, so McCoy's action was a significant step.
McCoy's Lasting Legacy in Oregon
McCoy Park in Portland is named in honor of Bill McCoy and his wife, Gladys. Gladys McCoy was also a very important figure. In 1970, she became the first black member of the Portland school board. Later, in 1979, she became the first black Multnomah County commissioner. A county commissioner helps manage the local government for a county.
A famous sculpture in Portland called The Dream is dedicated to Bill and Gladys McCoy. This sculpture shows Martin Luther King Jr., a leader of the Civil Rights Movement. The dedication honors the McCays' contributions to civil rights and public service in Oregon.
