New Yorkers pay tribute to Mayor David Dinkins

David N. Dinkins, New York City’s first and only Black mayor, died at his Manhattan home on Monday at the age of 93. Dinkins, who entered office in January 1990, famously referred to the city’s diversity as a “gorgeous mosaic” and advocated economic and education equality for all New Yorkers. Despite serving just one term, Dinkins is credited with expanding affordable housing, lowering crime rates, revitalizing Times Square, and signing a deal that guaranteed the U.S. Open would be held in the city for decades. After news of his death broke, several New York leaders and luminaries paid tribute to the trailblazing icon.

With the passing of Mayor Dinkins, NY lost a remarkable civic leader. The first and the only Black mayor of NYC, he cherished our “gorgeous mosaic” & served the city & state over a career spanning decades with the hope of unity and a deep kindness.

My friend, you will be missed. pic.twitter.com/8xybkMcvPm

— Andrew Cuomo (@NYGovCuomo) November 24, 2020

Chirlane and I are mourning a truly great man. David Dinkins simply set this city on a better path.

He was my mentor, he was my friend, and his steadfast commitment to fight for that “gorgeous mosaic” inspires me every single day.

We’ll keep up his fight. pic.twitter.com/gL0yY8Ae9s

— Mayor Bill de Blasio (@NYCMayor) November 24, 2020

The Hon. David N Dinkins was not only my boss but my friend and inspiration. I knew him as a man of firsts: 1st male member of Manhattan Natl Women’s Political Caucus; 1st African-American Mayor of NYC, whom I served…. pic.twitter.com/ODD3cqnm9k

— Gale A. Brewer (@galeabrewer) November 24, 2020

The example Mayor David Dinkins set for all of us shines brighter than the most powerful lighthouse imaginable, and I stand on his shoulders.

New York will mourn Mayor Dinkins and continue to be moved by his towering legacy. My deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.

— NY AG James (@NewYorkStateAG) November 24, 2020

David Dinkins’s groundbreaking mayoral victory in 1989 helped New York City turn an important corner in racial equality.

— Mike Bloomberg (@MikeBloomberg) November 24, 2020

I join all New Yorkers in mourning the passing of Mayor David Dinkins.

Sending my prayers to the Dinkins family tonight. Thank you for your service to our city.

Rest In Peace.https://t.co/n7xglI2AaI

— Keith Powers (@KeithPowersNYC) November 24, 2020

New York City has lost a great champion for people of color and a historic leader for a more inclusive city. May we all follow in #DavidDinkins’ large footsteps and add our bright stitch to the gorgeous mosaic of this city that he so loved. pic.twitter.com/La67jtOXNa

— Eric Adams (@BKBoroHall) November 24, 2020

David Dinkins, a leader of quiet strength and character, was a dear family friend. Working in the Dinkins Administration, for the first African American mayor of NYC, was one of the greatest honors of my life. pic.twitter.com/yYJWO1pjWq

— Chirlane McCray (@NYCFirstLady) November 24, 2020

David Dinkins was a man of great compassion, service, and grace who saw the City as a gorgeous mosaic of diversity.

He lifted and united New Yorkers from all walks of life.

Rest in power, Mr. Mayor. pic.twitter.com/5gp5ebirdG

— Rep. Nydia Velazquez (@NydiaVelazquez) November 24, 2020

(1/2) Mayor Dinkins inspired Black people all over the world with his bold NYC Mayoral Victory in 1989. His campaign inspired and ushered in the new wave of Black elected leaders, which then opened up opportunities for all people to know that they can also lead. pic.twitter.com/fjRHAeyhYL

— Laurie Cumbo (@cmlauriecumbo) November 24, 2020

At his inauguration as New York City’s first Black mayor, David Dinkins said: “We have not finished the journey toward liberty and justice, but surely we have come a long way.” He was a trailblazer, a gentleman, and my friend. Bill and I send our condolences to all who loved him.

— Hillary Clinton (@HillaryClinton) November 24, 2020

New York City has lost a pillar and a patriot.

With quiet dignity but lion-hearted love for his city, Mayor David Dinkins led us through one of the most challenging chapters in our history.

My thoughts and prayers are with the Dinkins family and their loved ones. Rest in power. pic.twitter.com/8Is0TkK5ha

— Scott M. Stringer (@NYCComptroller) November 24, 2020

I extend my deepest condolences to the family of Mayor David Dinkins, and to the many New Yorkers who loved and supported him.

He gave a great deal of his life in service to our great City.

That service is respected and honored by all.

— Rudy W. Giuliani (@RudyGiuliani) November 24, 2020

David Dinkins took the helm at a time when incredible economic, cultural and political storms nearly tore the city apart. In private, as in public, he inevitably gave full credit and lavish thanks to the many people who supported him along the way. Honored to have known him. pic.twitter.com/4lq8PBf7yt

— Errol Louis (@errollouis) November 24, 2020