Sharon Sayles Belton was born on May 13, 1951 in Minnesota. She grew up in a tight-knit community where she learned the values of hard work and perseverance. Sayles Belton attended Macalester College in Saint Paul, Minnesota, where she studied biology and sociology. Her time at college helped shape her views on social justice and community involvement.
Sayles Belton made history when she became the first African American and woman to be elected Mayor of Minneapolis in 1994. During her time in office, she worked tirelessly to improve the city and address issues such as crime and poverty. Sayles Belton was known for her inclusive approach to governance and her ability to bring people together to find solutions to complex problems.
Throughout her career in politics, Sayles Belton was supported by her husband, Steven Belton, with whom she raised three children. Despite the demands of her job, Sayles Belton always made time for her family and prioritized their well-being.
Sharon Sayles Belton's tenure as Mayor of Minneapolis was marked by her commitment to public service and her efforts to make the city a better place for all residents. Her work has left a lasting impact on the community and inspired future generations of leaders to follow in her footsteps.
Sharon Sayles Belton shared a common background with Marion Barry, both being African American mayors who worked tirelessly to improve their respective cities. Their dedication to public service and commitment to social justice helped shape their legacies as leaders in their communities.
Overall, Sharon Sayles Belton's career in politics was defined by her passion for helping others and her tireless advocacy for positive change. She remains a respected figure in Minnesota politics and a trailblazer for women and people of color in leadership positions.