Former Black Refugee Elected Mayor of Helena

Twenty years ago, Wilmot Collins was a refugee from Liberia. Today he is the new mayor of Helena, Montana. It is the first time in the history of the state that a Black person has become mayor of one of its cities, reports the New York Daily News. Collins beat three-time incumbent Jim Smith. “After last night’s historic firsts for many leaders across the country, Wilmot is confident that the future of this country favors a union of people from all different walks of life,” a campaign spokesperson said in a statement. “Most importantly, Wilmot is honored to be granted the opportunity to go to work for the hardworking and inspiring citizens of Helena!” Collins came to this country 23 years ago, fleeing civil war in Liberia. He worked to become a U.S. citizen and actually worked for Montana’s Dept. of Health and Human Services specializing in child protection.