Wilmont Sweeney facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Wilmont Sweeney
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| California Superior Court Judge | |
| In office 1979–1996 |
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| Appointed by | Jerry Brown Jr. |
| Personal details | |
| Born | November 19, 1925 Austin, TX, U.S. |
| Died | April 24, 1999 (aged 73) Berkeley, CA |
| Political party | Democratic |
| Spouse | Linetta McCarter (divorced) |
| Children | 2 |
| Education |
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Wilmont Sweeney was an important American judge, lawyer, and politician. He made history as the first Black person to join the city council in Berkeley, California. He was born on November 19, 1925, and passed away on April 24, 1999.
Contents
Wilmont Sweeney's Life and Career
Early Life and Education
Wilmont Sweeney was born in Austin, Texas. He served in the Army during World War II. After the war, he went to college.
He earned a degree in political science from the University of California, Berkeley in 1950. Later, he studied law at UC Hastings College of Law, finishing in 1955.
A Career in Public Service
In 1961, Wilmont Sweeney was elected to the City Council in Berkeley, California. This was a big moment because he was the first Black person to serve on Berkeley's council.
He continued to break barriers in the legal field. In 1974, he became the first Black judge in the Berkeley-Albany Municipal Court. Then, in 1979, California Governor Jerry Brown appointed him as a Superior Court judge.
Helping Young People
As a Superior Court judge, Wilmont Sweeney worked in the juvenile court. He believed in helping young people make better choices. He promoted counseling and rehabilitation instead of just sending them to detention centers. He wanted to give them a chance to learn and grow.
To honor his work, California's juvenile court judges give out an award in his name. This award recognizes judges who follow his ideas of helping young people. Also, in Alameda County, there is a special program for young men aged 15 to 19 named after Wilmont Sweeney. It is a safe place that helps them get back on track.
His Wisdom and Humor
Wilmont Sweeney was known for his good sense of humor. People respected him a lot as a council member and a judge. He once shared a memorable piece of advice:
When I grew up in Texas, I came to find out early in life, that, when you're dealing with the bad guys, you've always got to remember that it's not enough that you win the game, and win it fairly and squarely, you've still got to win the fight afterwards out in the parking lot.
This quote shows his practical and wise approach to life's challenges.
