Black History, Frank Turner, and the Importance of Remembering

Yesterday, like many of us, I learned from reading the announcement by Howard County Executive Calvin Ball that former Delegate Frank Turner had died. Turner was the first Black delegate to represent Howard County in Annapolis in the General Assembly. He was elected in 1995 and served until 2019.

Let me just pause for a moment here. Howard County had its first Black delegate in 1995? I’m appalled by that but perhaps not surprised.

If you are able, please read Turner’s obituary in the Baltimore Banner.

Frank Turner, Howard County’s first Black delegate, dies at 77, Jess Nocera, Baltimore Banner

I did not know Mr. Turner personally and much of what I read in his obituary was new to me. I knew that he was a local legend but I didn’t have any in-depth knowledge of his life and career in public service. As we are seeing such a concerted effort to completely erase Black history and accomplishments in this country I hope our community will take some time to learn more and contemplate Turner’s important role in Howard County history as an advocate, educator, and public servant.

Right now would be an excellent time. Before someone decides to suppress it.

I read many heartfelt tributes yesterday which came from Howard County folks who knew and/or worked with Turner throughout his life. It reinforced to me how little I knew and how inadequate I feel to the task of remembering him here. If you are reading this - - I’m putting the word out to find someone better qualified to write a guest post about Turner’s life and what he meant to our community.

Would that person be you? Do you know someone you think I should reach out to? Let me know.

*****

Today from 11 am to 4 pm: Howard County’s Black History Expo 2025. The Theme is African Americans and Labor. The event is open to the public and admission is free.

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