Reubin O'Donovan Askew

Reubin O'Donovan Askew was not just a governor—he was a visionary leader who
transformed Florida’s political and social landscape during one of the most tumultuous
periods in American history. Born in Muskogee, Oklahoma, on September 11, 1928,
Askew moved to Pensacola, Florida, as a child. It was there, in the heart of the
Panhandle, that he would begin to develop his deep sense of social justice and civic
responsibility. Florida would come to know him not just as a politician but as a
statesman who championed progressive policies that benefited all Floridians,
particularly African Americans.

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Askew's leadership as Florida’s 37th governor, from 1971 to 1979, was marked by his
bold and often courageous stance on civil rights and racial equality. During a time when
many Southern politicians were resistant to change, Askew embraced it. His
gubernatorial administration was one that broke with the past and set a new course for
Florida’s future. Under his leadership, cities like Miami, Jacksonville, and Tallahassee
saw significant strides in civil rights advancements.

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One of Askew’s most profound contributions was his support for the desegregation of
public schools. Despite considerable opposition from segregationists, Askew stood firm
in his belief that all children, regardless of race, deserved equal access to quality
education. His policies helped to bring about the integration of schools throughout
Florida, dismantling the remnants of Jim Crow that had long held back the state’s Black
communities.

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Askew also played a pivotal role in the appointment of African Americans to prominent
positions within Florida’s government. He was responsible for the historic appointment
of Joseph Hatchett as the first African American to serve on the Florida Supreme Court
in 1975. This decision sent ripples of progress through Florida’s legal and political
systems, opening doors for future generations of Black leaders and professionals.

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Additionally, Askew was an advocate for fair housing and economic opportunity for all
Floridians. He championed the state’s first-ever corporate income tax, using the
revenue to fund public services that benefited low-income and marginalized
communities, many of which were predominantly Black. His efforts to bring economic
justice to Florida helped to lift up communities that had long been left behind by
systemic inequalities.

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Askew’s legacy is one of courage, compassion, and a deep commitment to justice. His
work as governor laid the groundwork for a more inclusive and equitable Florida,
particularly in cities like Miami and Pensacola, which saw significant benefits from his
civil rights agenda. He understood that the power of government was in its ability to
create meaningful change for its people, and he used that power to ensure that all
Floridians, regardless of race, had the opportunity to succeed.

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Reubin O'Donovan Askew left an indelible mark on the state of Florida. His progressive
vision and commitment to civil rights and equality continue to resonate today, serving as
a model for leadership that puts people first. His legacy stands as a testament to the
power of public service and the role that government can play in advancing social
justice and equality for all.