A City of Two Governments

A City of Two Governments. March Route to Government. In 1963, Birmingham underwent a major political transformation. To force Commissioner “Bull” Connor from office, progressive Whites and Blacks plotted to change the form of government from Commissioners to a Mayor-Council system. Mayor Albert Boutwell won with the help of Black voters. Like most Whites, however, Boutwell was angry about the "Project C” demonstrations and their impact on the image of Birmingham. While Boutwell preferred gradual change, many non-violent protestors continued to insist upon direct action and immediate change., Paired marker , April 15, 1963 , Mayor Albert Boutwell and nine city councilors are sworn into office after voters sweep away the three- man commission form of government. But "Bull” Connor and his fellow commissioners refuse to leave office. They wait until the courts decide if they can stay in office until their terms end. So Birmingham, for a short time, has two governments. Eventually, the courts rule against the commissioners. Though Blacks vote for Boutwell, “Project C” organizers still march to City Hall to protest Jim Crow laws and demand other changes needed in city government. On July 23, 1963, the new City Council votes to repeal Birmingham's segregation ordinances. , "Oh Lord, hold my hand while I run this race." , Old Negro spiritual, Lesson A14: Discover facts that caused this social split between races in America.