Lucien Edward Blackwell

Democrat Representative of Pennsylvania's 2nd district

Congresses Served

House Terms

January 1, 1931 (72 years old)

Birthday

January 1, 2003

Death

Former boxer and longshoreman
Served in the United States Army during the Korean War and was a boxing champion in the Army
Became president of the International Longshoremen’s Association, Local 1332 in 1973
Held office in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives from 1973 to 1975
Served on the Philadelphia City Council from 1975 to 1991, known for his vibrant personality and fiery oratory
Chaired the Finance Committee on the City Council and advocated for divestment from South Africa and the creation of opportunities for minorities and women in city contracts
Played a significant role in legislation for the Pennsylvania Convention Center and the construction of Philadelphia’s One Liberty Place
Elected to the United States House of Representatives, serving from 1991 to 1995, and was a supporter of President Bill Clinton’s economic policies
Unsuccessful in the primary for renomination to Congress in 1994 and later worked as a lobbyist
Passed away on January 24, 2003, at the age of 71
Left a legacy in West Philadelphia with a mural and a regional library named in his honor
His widow, Jannie Blackwell, and son, Thomas, also served in political positions within Philadelphia and Pennsylvania