Living Legends: Meet Mayor Atkins

Mayor James H. Atkins brings a wealth of experience and knowledge in his capacity as a seasoned public servant, whose journey in public service began with his tenure on the Danville City Commission. As an Educator turned Politician, his background provides a unique vantage point in understanding the nexus of education and politics. His impressive service span includes roles ranging from teacher, principal, coach, assistant superintendent, to Diversity Administrator at Centre College, each role contributing valuable insights and skills utilized daily in his political career. Despite wearing many hats in a professional capacity, it is the titles of husband, father, and grandfather that he cherishes most, attributing these familial roles to shaping up his ability to communicate relentlessly with people from all walks of life, earning him the endearment of 'the people's mayor.'

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Gain insights into the rich tapestry of Black history and experiences in the unique settings of the Ohio River Valley and Appalachia.
• Uncover the often tangled narratives of segregation and integration in Lexington, Kentucky.
• Follow the inspiring path of Mayor Atkins to Danville and his profound contributions to education.
• Discover the transformative power of civic engagement and volunteerism.
• Grasp the fundamental importance of representation and diversity in local politics.

Connect with Mayor Atkins and learn more about his work at:
https://www.danvilleky.org/193/Mayor

The mission of the Black Appalachian Coalition (BLAC) is to build a multi-state campaign that amplifies black voices, dismantles the colonized narrative of Appalachia, and uses story-based strategies and solutions that center the voices and lived experiences of Black Appalachians.

For more stories and information about The Black Appalachian Coalition please visit www.blackappalachiancoalition.org.