FORMER DETROIT COUNCIL PRESIDENT ERMA HENDERSON PASSES, FUNERAL SET FOR SATURDAY

DETROIT (Tell Us Det) - Former Detroit City Council President and National Icon Erma Henderson has died at the age of 92.

Ms. Henderson was the first African-American female elected to the council, in 1972. She served as the first African-American female council president for 12 years, leaving in 1989. Ms. Henderson has long been considered one of Detroit’s most powerful female political forces, yet over the years she balanced her authority with a gentle maternal influence.

Born in 1917, her life has been committed to social activism, racial and cultural inclusion, democratic ideals and spiritual principles. She has spoken nationally and internationally on these topics

Her family moved from Pensacola, Fla., to Detroit the year after she was born, according to Wayne State University's Detroit African-American History Project. She earned her master's degree in social work from Wayne State. Henderson also worked as campaign manager for two black city council candidates in the 1940s and 1950s.

A civil rights advocate, Henderson pushed for blacks to be treated fairly in the workplace, criminal justice systems, restaurants and hotels.

Henderson's funeral will be on Saturday at 11 a.m. at the Greater Grace Temple in Detroit.

The following statements were released  on the passing of Erma Henderson:

Rep. Carolyn Cheeks Kilpatrick:
"I am deeply saddened by the death of Ms. Erma Henderson. She was my leader, confidante, and role model. She was a dedicated community leader and a trailblazer. She showed women around the world we could fly as high as we dared to dream. Early in my career, Council President Erma Henderson and I, along with Teola Hunter, led a group of women to the U.N. Conference on Women to Nairobi, Kenya. It was a trip I will never forget. During her life, Ms. Henderson celebrated many firsts. She was the first African American female elected to the Detroit City Council. She was the first African American female to serve as President of the Council, a position she held for 12 years. Ms. Henderson was also the first female to serve as a trustee of Wayne County Community College. Ms. Henderson was the epitome of what it means to be a public servant. She was a voice for the voiceless and the defender of the defenseless. Her passion for helping people was always evident. A staunch advocate for Detroiters and women, she possessed the wisdom, vision, and leadership needed to create positive change. Today and always, we embrace her spirit, her service, and her strength. She will live forever in our hearts and minds. I extend my deepest condolences to her family and friends. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time."

U.S. Senator Carl Levin
"She had a great heart and a passion and abiding love for the people of Detroit -- a passion and love that were contagious," Levin said. "Working with her was a real joy. No matter how challenging the issue, she brought a can-do attitude and sunny outlook to the table. Her basic decency and courage prevailed even in recent years, when she was faced with physical challenges that had to be overcome. Her spirit will continue to motivate and give hope in these tough times."

Detroit Mayor Dave Bing:
"Detroit lost a political trailblazer and a voice for its residents Sunday with the passing of former Detroit City Council President Erma Henderson. Throughout her life she was an advocate for African Americans, and all Detroiters, as she fought for equality in the criminal justice system; challenged the practice of redlining; and worked to break down the walls erected by segregation. From her historic election to the Detroit Common Council in 1972, to becoming president in 1977, President Emeritus Henderson was an advocate for our city, and her voice for change will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with President Henderson’s family and close friends during this difficult time."

Ken Cockrel Jr.:
"Today Detroit lost a giant in public service. Erma Henderson's commitment to the people of the city of Detroit was exceeded only by her love for them. She was a wonderful role model for all Detroiters but particularly it's young Black women who would do well to look to her as an example and a role model. Though we mourn her passing we should celebrate and continue her life's work"

Michigan Gov. Jennifer Granholm:
"Detroit has lost a great leader who loved the city and its people. Erma Henderson was a trailblazer in the civil rights and women's rights movements and a tireless advocate for working men and women. Erma's enthusiasm for helping and mentoring others, her strength and her fight for justice will be remembered for generations. I extend my deepest sympathy to the Henderson family on their loss."