H. M. Mickey Michaux
 

N.C. Central University honored N.C. Rep. Henry M. "Mickey" Michaux Jr., D-Durham, by naming its School of Education in his honor on Friday, June 15, 2007.  

A sign bearing the name "H.M. Michaux Jr. School of Education" was unveiled at noon on the corner of Lincoln and Cecil streets on the NCCU campus before state dignitaries, Michaux and his family and friends.

 "Rep. Michaux has been a true friend to this university," said departing Chancellor James H. Ammons. "A double Eagle, with a bachelor's and juris doctorate degrees from NCCU, we have come to rely on his unwavering support for this institution both within and without the North Carolina legislature."

 Michaux has served three terms as national president of the NCCU Alumni Association. In addition, he has served on the school's Board of Trustees and the Board of Directors of the NCCU Foundation Inc. He was elected to the State House of Representatives in 1972, 1974 and 1976, and again from 1984 to the present.

 Michaux is a founding member and was first chairman of the N.C. Black Leadership Caucus.

People across North Carolina are carefully considering who will become Speaker of the House if Jim Black does not seek another term in that office. Invariably one name emerges at the top of all lists. The Honorable H. Mickey Michaux of Durham appears to be the consensus candidate. The fifteen term member of the House, former US Attorney and businessman has the experience, leadership skills and, most importantly, the integrity to lead the North Carolina House.

At this point in time, Representative Michaux has not indicated a willingness to seek the position. However, leaders across the state are beginning to seek support for a “Draft Michaux

Movement”. And, while the NCBLC has not adopted an official position, I personally am supporting the move and encouraging others to contact Representative Michaux. Two other House Members, Representative Joe Hackney and Representative Hugh Holliman have indicated a run for Speaker. It would be almost impossible for either of them to be elected without the support of the nineteen members of the House Black Caucus. With the House Black Caucus’ support, Mr. Michaux has the opportunity to assemble the winning coalition.

Representative Michaux served as the first Chair of the North Carolina Black Leadership Caucus beginning in 1976. The major objective of the organization at that time was to increase the number of Black elected officials across the state at all levels of government. Under his leadership and continued support the objective was met and the quality of life continues to improve for Black North Carolinians. Thank Mickey by encouraging him to run for Speaker of the House.

Reprinted from the NEWSLETTER Volume 44 Special Edition July 2006 North Carolina Black Leadership Caucus