Mickey Leland

November 27, 1944 – August 7, 1989 Houston, Texas

Who They Are

Congressman George Thomas 'Mickey' Leland was a Houston-born politician and humanitarian who served in the U.S. House of Representatives and advocated tirelessly for the world's poor and hungry.

Their Story

Born George Thomas Leland Jr. on November 27, 1944, in Houston, Mickey Leland served in the Texas House of Representatives before being elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, representing Houston from 1979 to 1989. Known for his compassion and advocacy for the poor and hungry, Leland founded the Congressional Black Caucus's hunger and homelessness task force. He traveled throughout Africa investigating famines and humanitarian crises. On August 7, 1989, his plane crashed in Ethiopia while on a humanitarian mission to investigate an African famine, killing him and all aboard.

Major Accomplishments

Served in U.S. House of Representatives from Houston
Founded Congressional Black Caucus hunger task force
Humanitarian advocate for the world's poor and hungry

Impact & Legacy

Leland's legacy is his moral commitment to addressing global poverty and hunger. Though his life was cut short, he inspired subsequent generations of politicians to prioritize humanitarian concerns alongside political power.

Did You Know?

He was born November 27, 1944

He was a Houston native and congressman

He died in a plane crash in Ethiopia in 1989 while on a humanitarian mission

He was known as 'The Conscience of Congress' for his humanitarian work

Houston & Texas Connection

Mickey Leland was born and raised in Houston, Texas, and represented Houston in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1979 until his death.

Sources & Learn More

Credible references for the information presented on this page.