Denise Grant Elected Lauderhill’s First Black Woman Mayor

Denise D. Grant, a Jamaican-American from Christiana, Manchester, made history on November 5, 2024, as the first Black woman elected as mayor of Lauderhill, Florida. Grant secured 62.69% of the vote, triumphing over Lawrence “Jabbow” Martin. Having served as a Lauderhill City Commissioner since 2018, Grant’s victory marks a significant milestone in the city’s political history.

Grant’s platform emphasizes several key priorities, including improving the city’s infrastructure, lowering property taxes, and bolstering support for local businesses. As vice mayor, she was already deeply involved in advancing initiatives aimed at improving Lauderhill’s quality of life, and now, as mayor, she intends to continue her work to foster a thriving and sustainable community. Her campaign also focused on promoting safer neighborhoods, investing in youth and senior wellness programs, and ensuring the growth of Lauderhill as a hub for residents and businesses alike.

In addition to Grant’s groundbreaking win, two other Jamaican-Americans, Richard Campbell and John T. Hodgson, were elected as city commissioners, further increasing the Caribbean-American representation in the Lauderhill city government. This diverse representation signals a shift in the city’s leadership, bringing in new voices and perspectives.

Grant’s victory represents not just a personal achievement but a broader movement toward inclusion, as she becomes a beacon of change for Lauderhill, positioning the city for continued growth and success under her leadership.