History

Our History: The Journey of the Arizona Commission of African-American Affairs

The Arizona Commission of African-American Affairs (AZCAAA) has a rich history of advocating for the African-American community across Arizona. Since its inception, the Commission has grown in impact and reach, creating opportunities for empowerment, equity, and progress.

Explore our journey below:

  • 1999

    Honorable Leah Landrum Taylor elected to the Arizona House of Representatives. At the time one of just three AA elected officials in the legislature. Recognizing the lack of representation in Arizona’s government, Senator Leah Landrum Taylor partnered with Delta Sigma Theta Sorority to host the first “Delta Day” at the Arizona State Capitol. This pioneering event educated African Americans on the legislative process and inspired community engagement with state government.

  • 2000

    Recognizing the success of the “Delta Day” at the Capitol, and drawing inspiration from the Native American Commission’s legislative days, Senator Taylor collaborated with Native American leader Jack Jackson, Sr., to develop a similar platform for Arizona’s African-American community.

  • 2001

    Despite being the lone AA elected official in the State Legislature at the time, Senator Taylor launched the inaugural Arizona African American Legislative Conference (AALC). Despite the challenges, over 100 attendees gathered at the Capitol, eager to participate and engage in legislative advocacy. This marked the beginning of an annual tradition dedicated to fostering community empowerment and civic engagement.

  • 2002 - 2006

    The AALC grew significantly, attracting participants from across Arizona, including Sierra Vista, Tucson, Higley, and Yuma. Notable initiatives were introduced during this time, including:

    The “State of Black Arizona” address, delivered on the House floor.
    A “White Paper Report,” detailing conference activities and community achievements, distributed to every legislator. District-specific engagement opportunities, with tables set up on the Capitol lawn to connect representatives with their constituents

  • 2007

    Recognizing the need for a permanent institution to secure the representation of African American voices, Senator Leah Landrum Taylor convened with key advocates, including Mel Hannah, Clovis Campbell, Bishop Henry Barnwell, Pastor Benjamin Thomas, and Pastor Warren G. Stewart Sr., to advance the effort. Their persistence paid off when Governor Janet Napolitano signed Executive Order 2007-19 on July 27, formally establishing the Arizona Commission on African American Affairs as a nine-member body. This crucial step provided a formal structure to address the pressing needs of Arizona’s African American community and laid the foundation for future legislative codification.

  • 2010

    While the creation of the commission through Executive Order 2007-19 was a significant milestone, advocates recognized that relying on an executive order posed risks, as it could be reversed by future administrations. Determined to ensure the commission’s permanence and its role as a voice for Arizona’s African American community, Senator Leah Landrum Taylor, along with key leaders like Mel Hannah, Bishop Henry Barnwell, and others, continued their push for legislative codification. On May 10, 2010, their efforts culminated in a historic victory when the Arizona Commission on African American Affairs was officially enacted into state statute (A.R.S. 41-531-534). This achievement not only safeguarded the commission’s future but also made Arizona one of only ten states in the nation to provide legislative backing for such a commission.

  • 2014–2015

    After funding challenges during the Great Recession, the commission’s state budget was restored, enabling the hiring of a full-time Executive Director. This renewal ensured the commission’s ability to continue its mission and expand its impact statewide. Clovis Campbell was appointed the Executive Director.

  • 2024

    Jerry McPherson was appointed as Executive Director of the Arizona Commission on African American Affairs by Governor Katie Hobbs. His leadership brings a renewed focus on community engagement, strategic growth, and advancing equity and opportunity for African Americans throughout the state.