Calvin West, the first African-American to win a citywide office in Newark, has passed away, officials announced today. West was born in November 1932 in Newark and grew up in the city’s old Third Ward. He attended Newark public schools, first attending Charlton Street School before graduating from South Side High School (now Malcolm X Shabazz).
West won a councilman-at-large seat in 1966 and remained a central figure on the city’s political landscape for decades.
Mayor Baraka released a statement saying, “The people of Newark today mourn the passing and loss of Calvin West, a Newark native who became the first African-American to win citywide office when he was elected to an at-large Council seat. He fought to rebuild our city and the hopes of our people, with wisdom, warmth, and compassion. He became a respected leader in both Newark’s history and our state, serving as an aide to three Governors. Our prayers go to his family.”
“If anyone truly wanted to know Newark, they had to know Calvin West. For more than 60 years, he put his home city first and fought tirelessly for its people and neighborhoods. He garnered great respect across the state. I met Calvin long before I ran for governor, but when I did he gave me advice when few others cared and handed down some tough love when he thought it was needed — something he continued to do right up until his passing. He was a friend, and I will miss him. I know countless Newarkers will miss their friend, too.”
Senate President Pro Tempore M. Teresa Ruiz released a statement saying, “When the history of Newark, Essex County and the state of New Jersey is told, we will hear about a trailblazing man who paved the way for a generation of leaders. Calvin West was a Democratic stalwart, a mentor to so many and a partner to anyone who needed the advice and counsel of an elder. Calvin was a no-nonsense, tell-it-like-it-is person, and above all else, a lover of life. We will celebrate you and miss you.”
