By Jordan Meadows
Staff Writer
The 2025 Annual Conference of the African American Mayors Association (AAMA) kicked off last Wednesday and lasted to Friday at the iconic Omni Shoreham Hotel in Washington D.C.. The conference brought together hundreds of mayors and civic leaders from across the country under the banner of “The Power of Now”.
One of the most celebrated moments of the conference was the swearing-in of Savannah, Georgia Mayor Van R. Johnson as the newly elected President of AAMA’s Board of Trustees for 2025–2026. In a full-circle moment, he was sworn in by Kevin Johnson, former Mayor of Sacramento and founding president of AAMA.
“It’s about working hand in hand to enact real change,” said Mayor Van Johnson. His leadership is expected to carry forward AAMA’s mission to advocate for stronger communities through collaboration with federal partners and private industry.
The energy at the conference was fueled by high-profile appearances from leaders across sectors. NFL Hall of Famer, entrepreneur, and Good Morning America co-anchor Michael Strahan delivered an address, reminding the audience, “We need everyone to win, because if the team wins, there’s enough to go around for everybody.”
Mayors from cities large and small—urban, rural, and everything in between—gathered to engage in policy discussions, networking, and knowledge exchange. The conference saw participation from mayors representing more than 500 African American-led municipalities, who collectively serve over 25 million Americans.
Among the notable attendees: Mayor Eric Adams (New York City), Mayor LaToya Cantrell (New Orleans), Mayor Andre Dickens (Atlanta), Mayor Brandon Johnson (Chicago), and Mayor Steven Reed (Montgomery).
Thursday’s Legacy Awards Gala was a highlight, celebrating leadership that has driven measurable change in communities nationwide. Meanwhile, the Kevin Johnson Scholars Summit offered emerging college leaders the opportunity to engage with mayors and public policy experts, gaining insight and inspiration for future civic leadership.
AAMA also made waves in community health with a major announcement in partnership with the American Beverage Foundation for a Healthy America (ABFHA). Together, they awarded $600,000 in grants to seven cities led by African American mayors to support food access and nutrition initiatives. The winning cities include: Atlanta, GA; New Orleans, LA; Savannah, GA; Dumfries, VA; Maywood, IL; Earle, AR; and Rankin, PA.
“We are thrilled to be able to offer this exciting grant opportunity to these cities which will allow them the opportunity to build upon their existing programs and develop new healthy food and nutrition programs for their residents,” said Phyllis Dickerson, CEO of the African American Mayors Association. “We are honored to again partner with the American Beverage Foundation for a Healthy America to address the issue of food insecurity and strengthen the health of our communities.”
Kevin Keane, President and CEO of American Beverage and Chair of the ABFHA Board, echoed the importance of the initiative: “Nutrition access, affordability and education are cornerstones of a healthy community. That’s why America’s beverage companies are proud to partner with AAMA to support mayors as they work tirelessly to improve the health and well-being of our communities.”
In a more fiery moment, New York City Mayor Eric Adams took to the stage Friday morning, delivering a candid speech that addressed the challenges faced by Black mayors, especially those in major cities. He criticized what he described as institutional resistance and media bias, warning fellow leaders about the pressures that come with the role.
“Particularly if you are the first or second Black mayor, you inherit those who are part of an institution who say: ‘We are going to wait you out,’” said the mayor, referring to city bureaucrats he believes are deliberately sabotaging his agenda. “You inherit those who have their own agenda, who have long relationships with the media that they can leak and slip information and make calls on you.”
The conference brought together a powerful lineup of mayors from across the country, including: Andre Dickens (Atlanta, GA), Brandon Johnson (Chicago, IL), Steven Reed (Montgomery, AL), and Brandon Scott (Baltimore, MD). Ten mayors from North Carolina are members of the AAMA, and were expected to attend, including: Mayors Bobbie Jones (Princeville), Leonardo Williams (Durham), Vi Alexander Lyles (Charlotte), Mitch Colvin (Fayetteville), Don Hardy (Kinston).
From Deion “Coach Prime” Sanders opening the conference to Mayor Brandon Johnson of Chicago closing it, AAMA was a presentation of Black vision and action. Beyond celebration, it was a launchpad for lasting partnerships and policies that will shape the future of America’s cities.
