Brown is widely regarded as the most influential African-American politician of the late 20th century, serving in the California legislature for more than thirty years, a position considered the second most powerful position in the state. He was Speaker of the Assembly for an unprecedented fifteen years, leaving after new term limits were implemented. During his tenure in the California Assembly, Brown promoted the passage of significant legislation including the bill requiring motorist to wear seat belts, legislation increasing educational and health testing standards, compensation for crime victims and the regulation of healthcare costs for low-income families
As Mayor of San Francisco, Brown presided over the city’s “dot.com” era in the city’s growth and orchestrated the building boom that transformed much of the Bay Area during his eight-year term. The numerous projects completed or developed on his watch included the restoration of City Hall and of the Ferry Building; Pacific Bell Park, The Asian Art Museum; an expanded convention center; a new biomedical campus on the University of California, San Francisco and a subway extension to San Francisco International Airport. After his second term as mayor in 1999, Brown retired from politics after 39 years of service in 2004.
“For over two decades, we’ve taken an evening to recognize those who are blazing a trail for the next generation and making a significant difference,” said GLAAACC Chairman Gene Hale. “It is our privilege to recognize Willie Brown for his dedication to California and to the African American business community.”
Los Angeles City Council President Herb Wesson will once again be the Master of Ceremonies for the evening. Wesson has served as city council president since 2011 and has represented Council District 10 since 2005. He is the first African American to hold the position of council president in the city’s history and has been re-elected three times to lead the city’s legislative body.
Other honorees at GLAAACC’s Economic Awards Dinner include: Raul Anaya, President, Bank of America, Greater Los Angeles – Banking Executive of the Year; Robert “Bob” Gilbert, Chief Development Officer, Los Angeles World Airports – Legacy Award; Christine Keith, President, Elite Auto – Member of the Year; Avis Ridley-Thomas, Co-Director, The Institute of Non-Violence – Community Service Award.
For more information on GLAAACC’s 25th Annual Economic Awards Dinner, visit glaaacc.org, or call (323) 292-1297.
