1. Cory Booker
The U.S. Senator from New Jersey. Former Mayor of Newark.
- Fabiana Pierre-Louis
The first African American woman in the state of New Jersey to become an associate justice of the New Jersey Supreme Court occupies a position of gravitas.
- LeRoy Jones
The Democratic State Party Chairman (and Essex County Democratic Committee chair).
- Tahesha Way
The Lieutenant Governor for the State of New Jersey. Successor to the late Sheila Oliver.
- Ras Baraka
The Mayor of Newark, running for Governor in 2025.
- Donald Payne, Jr.
The bow tied Congressman from the 10th District hails from one of New Jersey’s most distinguished African-American political families, son of New Jersey’s first African American Congressman, the late U.S. Rep. Donald Payne, Sr.
- Bonnie Watson Coleman
The 12th District Congresswoman made history in 2015 when she assumed the oath of office as New Jersey’s first African American Congresswoman. A former Democratic State Party chair with a strong and independent progressive record, Watson Coleman keeps her own counsel and makes her own political moves. A survivor and a fighter.
- Tony Vauss
The no-nonsense Mayor of Irvington won a third term in office in 2022 with a walkover election. But it was his maintenance of the Ronald L. Rice aftermath that proved his and Team Irvington Strong’s political viability and organization, as the mayor helped make Renee Burgess the next senator of the 28th District.
- Marty Small
Mayor of Atlantic City, Small repeatedly stared down elections, change-of-government challenges and the constant opposition of local gadflies to assert his own executive dominance over the seaside gambling mecca.
- John Currie
The long-time Passaic County Democratic Committee Chairman served eight years with distinction as the chair of the Democratic State Committee. A player in statewide politics.
- Troy Singleton
Schooled in the governing arts by former Speaker Joe Roberts, the 7th District state Senator from Willingboro moved quickly up the ranks of the New Jersey Legislature to win a state senate seat in 2017. A savvy political operator and dedicated policy wonk.
- Britnee Timberlake
Tough-minded, socially conscious 34th District Senator from East Orange.
- Shirley Turner
The Lawrence-based state Senator from the 15th Legislative District remains one of the senate’s most dignified members, an expert on education issues, an independent Democratic voice, and a champion of government accountability.
- Wayne Richardson
Respected and prized Essex County Commission President. Pioneering labor leader; jobs creator and trades educator.
- Benjie Wimberly
The Assemblyman from the 35th District heads the Paterson Recreation Department, a perch he has used to build considerable power and influence as a coach for future leaders.
- Herb Conaway
The most educated member of the legislature is both a medical doctor and an attorney. The 7th District representative chairs the Assembly Health Committee. Running for Congress – with the backing of the Burlington County Democratic Committee – in the 3rd District.
- Gordon Johnson
The Englewood-based Senator from the 37th District.
- Shavonda Sumter
The Assemblywoman from the 35th District – a Patersonian and medical professional – this year indicated her interest in the Congressional seat occupied by U.S. Rep. Bill Pascrell, when Pascrell retires.
- Michael Hill
The longtime reporter and news anchor at NJTV – now the new Host of Morning Edition at WNYC – commands respect as one of the best newsmen in New Jersey. Aggressive but also elegant. Deep Newark family roots.
- Derek Armstead
The Mayor of Linden.
- Larry Hamm
The executive director of the People’s Organization for Progress (POP) commands instantaneous respect in the progressive community of New Jersey as one of the longest-standing frontline advocates for African American working people. Running for U.S. Senate.
- Anthony Cureton
Elected in 2018 to supplant his disgraced predecessor, former NAACP Chapter head Cureton serves as the Sheriff of Bergen County.
- Renee Burgess
The 28th District senator proved the strength of Team Irvington Strong when she smothered the field to take the seat formerly occupied by Newark-based powerhouse, the late Ronald L. Rice.
- Angela McKnight
Represents Jersey City and Bayonne as the 31st District Senator.
- Verlina Reynolds Jackson
Assemblywoman from Trenton representing the 15th Legislative District.
- Linda Carter
Plainfield-based Assemblywoman representing the 22nd Legislative District.
- Shanique Speight
Newark Central Ward-based Assemblywoman from the 29th District. A people-centered advocate. Also of note, Essex Democrats rely on husband Andre Speight – Central Ward Democratic Committee chair.
- Ted Green
The Mayor of East Orange cut his professional teeth as a karate instructor. Close to Essex County Democratic Chairman Jones.
- Adrian Mapp
The Mayor of Plainfield.
- Charles Boyer
Founding Director of Salvation and Social Justice, Pastor at Greater Mount Zion AME in Trenton.
- Richard T. Smith
The Trenton native serves as the President of the New Jersey NAACP.
- Steffie Bartley
The Newark native serves Senior Pastor of The New Hope Baptist Church of Elizabeth.
- Kenyetta Stewart
Remains a close ally to Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, and a vital part of the mayor’s operation – particularly important as Baraka continues to make moves toward a 2025 gubernatorial bid.
- Antwan McClellan
Republican Assemblyman from Ocean City.
- Jonathan M. Sammons
Republican Sheriff of Gloucester County; beat the Democratic Party machine in 2021.
- Middy Baraka
Brother and Chief-of-Staff of Newark Mayor Ras Baraka.
- Mildred Scott
The Sheriff of Middlesex County.
- Sean Spiller
President of the New Jersey Education Association (NJEA) and Mayor of Montclair Twp.
- Lamonica McIver
Central Ward Newark Councilwoman. Possible future mayor. Ground game talent. In-touch with constituents.
- .Calvin Souder
The powerful attorney from Newark (principal of Souder Shabazz and Woolridge) is the go-to legal contact for the City of Newark. Close to the administration of Mayor (and statewide progressive power player) Ras Baraka.
- Jeannine LaRue
Part of the one-two punch combination at the Zita Group, LaRue joins Patricia Zita as two of the most policy-grounded people in the state of New Jersey.
- Ruby Cotton
Paterson 4th Ward Councilwoman. Running for a fourth term this year, Cotton is the first 1st African American Women to serve as Paterson mayor. Also on Executive Board of the New Jersey League Of Municipalities.
- Shanel Robinson
The former Franklin Twp. Councilwoman made history in 2018 as the leader of the Democratic Board of Commissioners ticket that broke the GOP chokehold on county government. Chair of the Somerset County Commissioners Board.
- Rebecca Williams
Union County Commissioner; former Council President in Plainfield and a New Democratic Party leader.
- Tennille McCoy
LD-14 Assemblywoman from Hamilton.
- Keiona Miller
North Plainfield Councilwoman. Manager for the Local Assistance Program at the state Department of Environmental Protection. Organizes the annual North Plainfield Community Black History Month Celebration.
47. Steve Hockaday
Council President Councilman at-large, Plainfield.
48.Richard Wyatt
At-large Councilman from Plainfield.
- Mo Butler
Partner at Mercury. Point man for Senator Booker.
- Victor Carstarphen
Mayor of Camden.
- Sheila Davis
Camden Council Vice President.
- Chris James
The former executive director of the Democratic state Committee and 1st Ward East Orange Council president.
- Kaleem Shabazz
Atlantic City NAACP president and Ward 3 council for Atlantic City.
- Michellene Davis
A veteran of RWJ-Barnabas Health since 2009, Davis is the first African-American to serve as executive vice president in the health system’s history.
- Pat Council
Respected head of the Newark Recreation Department and South Ward Democratic chair, Reverend Council serves as the South Ward Councilman.
- Gilbert “Whip” Wilson
Camden County Sheriff.
- Dwayne Warren
Mayor of Orange.
- Tai Cooper
A former Deputy Chief Policy Advisor in the Murphy Administration, Cooper serves on the senior leadership team of the state Economic Development Authority (EDA).
- Sarah Jones
The Director of Government Affairs at Blue Cross/Blue Shield emerged from Payne world to become one of the most dynamic veteran minds in New Jersey politics.
- Gerry Gibbs
Co-Principal of the Capital Impact Group.
- Jonathan L. Young, Sr.
Camden County Commissioner.
- L. Grace Spencer
Superior Court Judge and former Assemblywoman from the 29th District.
- Jeff Booker
Seabright Councilman.
- Jiles Ship
President of the North Jersey Chapter of NOBLE.
- Robert L Artis
Veteran Prospect Park Councilman.
- Junius Williams
Legendary Rutgers University Professor and author.
- Albert B. Kelly
CEO and Founder of Gateway Community Action Partnership.
- Jerry Walker
Hudson County Commissioner. Former Seton Hal basketball star.
- David Brown
Monmouth County Democratic Chairman.
- Sam Frisby
Mercer County Commissioner.
- Joyce Watterman
Council President for Jersey City
- Rick Thigpen
Senior Vice President of Government Affairs for PSE&G; son of the late Essex County Democratic Chairman Phil Thigpen.
- Rahaman Muhammed
Deputy Mayor for the City of Newark.
- Alturrick Kenney
Surrogate for Essex County; close to Newark Mayor Baraka.
75. Ernest Coursey
Veteran Atlantic County Commissioner.
- Cleopatra Tucker
The 28th District Assemblywoman from Newark.
- Lilisa Mimms
At-Large Councilwoman from Paterson; top council vote-getter in the 2022 municipal election.
- Patricia Perkins-Auguste
Veteran Elizabeth Councilwoman.
- Charlene Walker
Executive Director of Faith in New Jersey; a vital voice during the redistricting process.
- Fatima Heyward
Among her many roles: President of the New Jersey Young Democrats, Chair of the NJDSC’s Emerging Leaders Caucus, Co-Founder of the South Jersey Young Black Democrats, and Diversity Chair of the New Leaders Council-NJ
81. William Spearman
5th District Assemblyman
- Kenneth Clayton
The pastor of St. Luke Baptist Church in Paterson stands at ground zero of one of New Jersey’s most challenged urban neighborhoods. Close to Assemblywoman Sumter.
- DoItAll Kelly
Rapper and community activist serving as Newark West Ward Councilman.
- Shaheed Muhammad Morris
The Trenton-based former spokesperson for the New Jersey Department of Education now serves as communications manager at the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities. A former television news reporter.
- Chigozie Onyema
Attorney and community activist, former candidate for councilman of the Newark West Ward.
- Denise Ridley
Jersey City Councilwoman.
- Lee Clark
Phillipsburg Town Councilman.
- Donna Pearson
Cumberland County Commissioner. Won against the odds in 2020.
- Louise Rountree
Newark City Councilwoman at-large affiliated with Team Baraka.
- Larry Crump
Newark At-Large Councilman, son of Mildred Crump, and a member of the Baraka Team.
- Garnet Hall
The Maplewood-based Assemblywoman from the 28th District.
- Tyshammie Cooper
Essex County Commissioner.
93. Felicia Hopson
Burlington County Commissioner.
- Dahlia Vertreese
Labor leader with the Operating Engineers and the Mayor of Hillside.
- Romaine Graham
Essex County Commissioner.
- Hasani Council
Board of Ed member and COS to Newark Councilman Pat Council, his father.
- Frank Minor
The veteran Mayor of Logan Twp.
- Nahshon Bolton
President of Bergen County JON-J, a 501(C)3 nonprofit organization with the mission of empowering Caribbeans and African American descendants residing in New Jersey
- Danielle Ireland-Imhof
The youngest and only African-American and African-American female county clerk in the state – from Passaic.
- Dominique Lee
Newark, BRICK Education Network.
- Jay Redd
Stono Public Affairs Managing Partner.
HONORABLE MENTION
Deborah Gregory, President of the Newark NAACP, and Dr. Uche Onyeani DC.
FORMER SENATOR NIA GILL
FORMER SENATOR SANDRA CUNNINGHAM
FORMER ASSEMBLYWOMAN MILA JASEY
Alberta Tamika Quick
Assistant secretary for New Jersey Department of Education academic and student support programs and she also have an Non-Profit “Leading Young Women, Inc.
Kenneth Simmons just won his 5th term on Paterson Board of Education and he started the Young Men Leadership Conference.
Michael Johnson first African American to be Mayor of the City Haledon, New Jersey he won the Democrat line in June of 2022 to win in November of 2022.
Judge John Wallace
Bill Payne, Sr.
Angela Garretson
Arthur Barclay
Stephenine Dixon
Christoher Collins
Gerry and Missy Balmir
- Andre Daniels
Nichelle Santos
Lionel Leach
Robert Graham
Julienne Cherry
Darcella Sessomes
Charles McRae
Terri Briggs-Jones
Rasheida Smith
Lee Clark
Marqweesha Guthrie
Mamie Bridgeforth
Glenn A. Grant
TJ Best
Rufus Johnson
David Hobbs
Dyese Davis
Cory Neering
Ian Mosley
Lamont Repollet
Norman Deen Muhammad
Angelica Allen-McMillan
John Harmon
Charles Williams
Levon Putney
Amir Khan
Eddie Osborne
William “Bill” Davis
Mike Jackson
Ralph Hunter
Tormel Pittman
Loretta Winters
Crystal Charley-Sibley
Yolanda Melville
LaDaena Thomas
Rhashonna Cosby
James Gee
Tency Eason
Vanessa Falco
Craig Callaway
Terrance L. Bankston
Lyndon Brown
Elton Custis
Kimberly Francois
Crystal Pruitt
Oscar James II
Jamillah Beasley
Elton Armady
David Sims
Fruqan Mouzon
Buster Soaries
Derel Stroud
Danielle Imhof
Brandon Givens
Hiver Ambroise
Lisa Ormon
Davon McCurry
Donald Shaw
Orlander Vick
Vern Cox
Archange Antoine
Tara Dowdell
Jane Warren Williams
Braxton Plummer
Joe Carter
Michael Johnson
Mohamed Jalloh
Tina Jalloh
Robert Artis
Al-tariq Ibn Shabazz
Rev. Lanel D. Guyton
Diane Tolliver
Jamila Odom Garnett
Mason Robinson
Marqweesha Guthrie
Donnetta Bishop-Johnson
Alexander Bland
Andrew Bobbitt
Barry Goode
Ashley Davis
Charles McRae
Gregory Good
Tamara Harris
Tanzie Youngblood
Anthony Salters
Joylette Mills-Ramson
Thomas Little
Della Crews
Marie Guervil
Demetrius Terry
Doug Palmer
William Gallman, Jr.
Eric Jackson
Monique Baptiste
Reginald Bledsoe
Basil Parker
Marques-Akil Lewis
Brandon McKoy
Tracey L. Brown
Dianna Houenou
Mike Bland
Eric “Citizen” Payne
Kyle Darby
Randal Pinkett
Jason Redd
Mike Wallace
Emanuel Capers
Petra Gaskins
Kerry Coley
Naima Ricks
Ernie Rucker
Corey Teague
Christopher Jackson
George Dredden
Jamie Summers-Johnson
Christian Onuoha
Will Cunningham
John Francis
Renee Baskerville
Jeff Dublin
Sakeema James
Ayinde Martin
Khahil Chaneyfield Nass
Adrienne Wooten
Garry Williams
Shante Palmer
Eldridge Hawkins, Sr.
Eldridge Hawkins, Jr.
John Campbell
Chris Irving
Harold Johnson, Jr.
Zelli Imani
Allen Stephen Potts
Sherwood Goodenough
Shavar Jeffries
Jonathan Hodges
Lester Taylor
Jeff Jones
Al Spivey
Ingrid Hill
Sharon Robinson-Briggs
Jason Solowsky
Jon Evans
Elnardo Webster
John Amos
Lisa Jackson
Denise Coleman
Safanya Searcy
Carolyn Blackman
Jethro James
Selika Josiah Talbott
Ronald C. Rice
Vernon Richardson
Ronald Slaughter
Ashley Bennett
Lucy Edmund
Kason Little
Susan Hairston
Kim Dehaarte
Marilyn Davis
Samantha Gordon
Reverend John Givens
Lizbeth Davies
Lynda Gallashaw
Jim Johnson
Jason Grove
Keith Jones
Ken Morris, Jr.
Kathy McBride
Lynn Haynes
Regena Thomas
Ashton Burrell
Jude Ezeh
Justis Brown
Regina Appolon
Michael Johnson
Robin Vaughn
Deborah Davis
Eddie Glaude
Edina Brown
Adam Taliaferro
Jamel Holley
Durwood Pinkett
Sharpe James
John Sharpe James
Gayle Chaneyfield Jenkins
Justis Brown
Vida Neil
Jamie Bland
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In honor of Black History Month, InsiderNJ has released its highly anticipated 2024 African American List, highlighting the achievements and contributions of African Americans in various fields. This annual list serves as a celebration of the rich history and culture of the African American community, while also recognizing the individuals who have made a significant impact in their respective industries.
The 2024 African American List features a diverse group of individuals from across the country, ranging from politicians and activists to artists and entrepreneurs. Each person on the list has been selected for their outstanding accomplishments and dedication to their craft, making them leaders and trailblazers in their fields.
One notable inclusion on this year’s list is Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who has been recognized for her advocacy on behalf of marginalized communities and her efforts to address social and economic inequality. Another standout is filmmaker Ava DuVernay, whose powerful storytelling has shed light on important social issues and sparked important conversations about race and representation in Hollywood.
In addition to highlighting individuals who have already made a name for themselves, the 2024 African American List also features up-and-coming talent who are poised to make a significant impact in the future. These rising stars represent the next generation of African American leaders and innovators, and their inclusion on the list serves as a testament to their potential and promise.
Overall, the release of the 2024 African American List is a reminder of the importance of diversity and representation in all aspects of society. By celebrating the achievements of African Americans and shining a spotlight on their contributions, InsiderNJ hopes to inspire others to continue breaking barriers and making a difference in their communities.
As we continue to celebrate Black History Month, let us take this opportunity to honor the past, present, and future achievements of African Americans and recognize the invaluable contributions they have made to our society. The 2024 African American List is just one way to pay tribute to these remarkable individuals and their enduring legacy.