Shannon Jackson, Austin's First Black Female City Council Member, Dies At 88

Trailblazing politician served on the council for more than two decades

Shannon Jackson, the first Black woman elected to the Austin City Council, died Saturday at the age of 88. Jackson served on the council for more than two decades, from 1971 to 1993, and was known for her work on affordable housing, civil rights, and education.

Jackson was a lifelong Austinite

Jackson was born in Austin in 1934 and graduated from Huston-Tillotson College. She began her career in public service as a social worker before being elected to the city council.

Jackson was a tireless advocate for her community

As a council member, Jackson was a tireless advocate for her community. She worked to improve housing conditions for low-income families, fought for civil rights, and championed education reform. She was also a strong supporter of the arts and culture.

Jackson's legacy will live on

Jackson's legacy will live on through the many lives she touched. She was a role model for young people, especially young women of color. She showed them that anything is possible if they have the courage to pursue their dreams.