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Long Beach Honors the City’s Trailblazers During Black History Month
By Staff Writer
Published on Wed, Feb 25, 2026
Every February, Black History Month serves as a reminder of the leaders, innovators, activists, artists and public servants who have shaped Long Beach’s identity. From civil rights pioneers to cultural icons, these trailblazers are among the many who have helped build Long Beach’s modern identity.
Foundations of Justice and Community
Ernest McBride
A prominent figure in local civil rights history, Ernest McBride co-founded the Long Beach chapter of the NAACP in 1940. For decades, he fought discrimination in housing, employment and education. His legacy lives on through his preserved family home, now a designated landmark, as well as community facilities named in his memory, including Ernest McBride High School and Ernest McBride Park.
Evelyn Knight
Evelyn Knight connected Long Beach to the national Civil Rights Movement when she marched with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in Selma in 1965. She served a state government appointment and was involved in local advocacy efforts in her lifelong commitment to equity and justice.
Marcus Tucker
Appointed in 1976 as Long Beach’s first Black municipal court judge, Marcus Tucker earned the nickname “the education judge” for requiring young offenders to complete high school or earn GEDs. He viewed education as a pathway to civil rights and second chances. He was elevated to the Superior Court in 1985.
Breaking Barriers in Public Service
Doris Topsy-Elvord
Representing many firsts, Doris Topsy-Elvord became Long Beach’s first Black woman elected to the City Council in 1992, later serving as Vice Mayor, and she was the first Black woman on the Harbor Commission, later serving as its President. She also co-founded the African American Heritage Society of Long Beach. The community center at Houghton Park was named in her honor.
Carl Cohn
As the first Black superintendent of the Long Beach Unified School District from 1992 to 2002, Carl Cohn led the district to national recognition, improving attendance and graduation rates. In 2000, the award-winning educator was America’s longest-serving urban superintendent.
Rex Richardson
Elected in 2022, Rex Richardson became Long Beach’s first Black mayor. Previously serving on the City Council, he represents a new generation of leadership focused on economic opportunity, youth development and inclusive growth.
Cultural Icons on the World Stage
Ava DuVernay
Award-winning filmmaker Ava DuVernay was born in Long Beach in 1972. She’s made history as a writer, director and producer, being the first African American woman to win Best Director at the Sundance Film Festival, be nominated for a Best Director Golden Globe, direct a film nominated for Best Picture Oscar, and direct a film with a budget over $100 million. Her work on films—such as “Selma” and “A Wrinkle in Time”—has made her the highest grossing Black woman director in American box office history.
Snoop Dogg
Born Calvin Broadus Jr. and raised in Long Beach, Snoop Dogg helped define West Coast hip-hop. A graduate of Long Beach Polytechnic High School’s Class of 1989, he has consistently honored the “LBC” in his music while building a global entertainment empire. He’s also currently serving as the USA’s first-ever Honorary Coach for the Olympic Games.
DeSean Jackson
A Long Beach Poly High alum, DeSean Jackson became one of the NFL’s most explosive wide receivers and later transitioned into coaching. He played college football for the California Golden Bears, where he was recognized as a two-time, first-team All-American in 2006 and 2007. He was selected by the Philadelphia Eagles in the second round of the 2008 NFL draft, and also played for the Washington Redskins, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Los Angeles Rams, and Baltimore Ravens. He was selected to the Pro Bowl three times.
Warren G
A key architect of the G-funk sound, Warren G rose to fame with the 1994 hit “Regulate” and has sold more than 10 million records. A proud Long Beach native, he remains active in community initiatives and youth engagement efforts. He is a part-owner of the new independent Long Beach Baseball Club.
These individuals represent more than milestones and firsts. They represent progress—built through courage, creativity and service. Their contributions continue to shape classrooms, city hall, courtrooms, concert stages, neighborhoods and national conversations.
