On November 7, 1978, five African American politicians were elected to the U.S. Congress, marking a significant moment in Black political history:

1. William H. Gray III (D-PA) – Served Pennsylvania’s 2nd Congressional District and later became the first African American to chair the House Budget Committee.
2. Bennett Stewart (D-IL) – Elected to represent Illinois’ 1st Congressional District.
3. Melvin Evans (R-Virgin Islands) – The first and only Republican delegate elected to represent the U.S. Virgin Islands in Congress.
4. Julian Dixon (D-CA) – Served California’s 28th Congressional District and was a key figure in the Congressional Black Caucus.
5. Mickey Leland (D-TX) – Represented Texas’ 18th Congressional District, advocating for humanitarian efforts, especially in Africa.

This election showcased the growing power and representation of Black leaders in U.S. politics.