“Today we celebrate the 100th anniversary of the birth of Mayor Harold Washington. Opportunity was the theme of the Mayor Washington administration. He opened the doors of city government to everyone with a good idea and the passion to see it come to life. His legacy inspires me every day.

I had the honor of working on economic development projects in Mayor Harold Washington’s administration with my mentor, Dr. Robert Mier, and business icon Al Johnson. It was an opportunity for a young fresh-eyed professional looking to add value to the great city of Chicago.

One of the best compliments I’ve ever received was when Dr. Mier, author of my favorite book “Social Justice and Local Development Policy,” said I personified Harold Washington’s legacy,” said Ald. Pat Dowell, candidate for the Democratic nomination for Illinois’ 1st Congressional District.