By: Follow South Jersey Staff
ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. — The African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey (AACCNJ) has awarded City of Atlantic City Mayor Marty Small, Sr. with the 2023 Politics Award at the AACCNJ 13th annual Circle of Achievements Award Gala on Thursday, February 16, 2023, at the Venetian in Garfield, NJ.
Each year during Black History Month, the AACCNJ honors individuals throughout New Jersey who have attained a high level of success in politics and other categories.
During his acceptance speech, Mayor Small discussed the struggles Atlantic City has faced over the last 15 years and the renaissance the city is currently experiencing under his leadership, including the city’s transformation into a family resort. Mayor Small also talked about his efforts to help African American and minority businesses in Atlantic City and create new African American and minority entrepreneurs through programs like his Small Business Academy.
“I am truly humbled by this honor,” Mayor Small told the crowd of 600 plus people, the largest turnout in the event’s history according to organizers. “If you’re counting on Atlantic City, I say count us in. We are a city on the move, and under my leadership we will continue to take this city to even greater heights. We’re going to keep reinventing ourselves. Be patient with myself and the City of Atlantic City because God is not through with us yet.”
John Harmon, AACCNJ Founder and CEO, said that Mayor Small’s commitment to his community is an example of strong leadership.
“These awards honor African Americans who have embraced their heritage and relevance from a historical perspective and try to emulate that today, and that’s Mayor Small,” Harmon said. “He makes sure his community has all the opportunities and resources seen in other communities, and makes sure Atlantic City is respected and is a significant component of New Jersey. He’s the hallmark of leadership.”
Mayor Small is the first individual from Atlantic City to receive an award from the AACCNJ during their annual gala.
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