Carolyn McLaughlin, Former Common Council President
Carolyn McLaughlin
For my final podcast, I chose to interview with Former Common Council President of the city of Albany, Carolyn McLaughlin.
Carolyn McLaughlin’s story begins right in Albany, NY where she was raised with her 6 six siblings by her parents. She went to Oakland California for 10 years where she obtained her bachelor’s in chemistry. Mclaughlin came back to Albany in 1987 and was inspired to have an impact on her community. Starting off in volunteer work, she soon started to notice the issues that were affecting the people of the city, including the marginalized communities.
Ms. McLaughlin then ran for Common Council for the 2nd Ward of Albany and won a seat that she would hold for 12 years. Not satisfied with what she could accomplish as just a Common Council Member, Carolyn then ran Common Council President. She won the Council Presidency in 2010, becoming the first African American Common Council President in Albany. Ms. McLaughlin was responsible for progress made in the Community Development Block Grant as she advocated for affordable housing and also pushed for tax relief for disabled and elderly residents.
Carolyn Mclaughlin made history by running for mayor in the city of Albany in 2017. She would have become the first black mayor Albany has ever saw. She unfortunately lost to the incumbent mayor, but her race left a lasting impact on the community. Much like Shirley Chisolm, Ms. McLaughlin’s race inspired young black women, many of whom have never participated in leadership, to strive for what they want to achieve.
I learned what it takes to become a political leader and for your voice to be heard, despite the hardships that comes along. It was truly a delight getting to learn more about Carolyn McLaughlin and how impactful of a black woman political leader she is.