By Chris Peeks December 07, 2023
A few days ago, I had the honor of interviewing a legendary figure in Alabama politics: former Mayor, State Representative, and current City Councilman, the iconic Johnny Ford.
Johnny has had a historic career, much like Tuskeegee, the municipality he presided over for eight terms. Mr. Ford spoke passionately about the city's rich history. Proud of the city's historical museum, the Mayor mentioned the people who hailed from town, like Booker T Washington, George Washington Carver, and Rosa Parks, to name a few. He boasted of their university and spoke solemnly about the "Tuskegee Experiment." Mayor Ford, paying homage to the Tuskegee Airmen, even learned to fly.
Elected in 1972 as the first Black Mayor of over 10,000 people, Johnny formed, along with six other mayors, the mayor's conference that grew into what is now The World Mayor Conference—an organization of mayors from all over the planet that meets in Zoom calls to discuss varying issues. Johnny serves as President Emeritus of the organization.
He even told of his friendship with former Alabama Governor George Wallace. To say Johnny is quite a character is an understatement. Eighty-one years old and as spry as a teenager, he is still going strong and serving the people of Tuskegee. To hear the interview, click on the link below.
Chris Peeks
Reporter and Columnist
Alabama Political Contributor
