Eugene Parks, a well-known local political activist who grew up and spent his entire life in Madison, died at his south side home Monday morning of natural causes. He was 57.

Mayor Dave Cieslewicz issued a release expressing sadness and sympathy to Parks’ family and to the city of Madison.

“Gene challenged the citizens and leaders of Madison to tackle different issues in our community,” Cieslewicz said. “Whether you agreed with him or not, Gene Parks made a unique and lasting contribution to our city.”

According to Ald. Mike Verveer, District 4, a friend of Parks, Parks was always challenging those who were in power, although he had some challenging times in City Hall.

“He was definitely a Madison original,” Verveer said. “He cared passionately about civil rights and human rights.”

The Equal Opportunities Commission mourned the death of the Madison native as well, citing his contributions as an alderperson, assistant to Fire Chief Edward Drukin and director of the city’s Affirmative Action Department.

“You always knew where Gene stood,” the commission’s release said. “A small business owner who in his own manner was a champion for civil rights. He was not afraid to take a stand.”

Parks became the first black alderperson for the Madison City Council in 1969 when he was 22 years old. He was also the president of the Madison chapter of the NAACP.

Parks ran for mayor in 1999 against Sue Bauman. He campaigned out of his home at 1616 Beld St., which was also the location of his former business, a tavern called Mr. P’s. He was defeated by Bauman and earned approximately 20 percent of the vote.

During his race against Bauman and throughout his entire life, he fought against racial segregation and discrimination.

“This country is as segregated today as it was 50 years ago and Wisconsin is the most racially segregated state in America,” Parks told The Badger Herald while running for mayor. “Including Madison, this so-called liberal town.”

According to Verveer, while Parks was an alderperson, much of his district included areas of campus and many of his constituents were students. Parks supported important student issues such as affordable housing.

“Students make up 20 to 25 percent of the population and are still used as slaves for housing income,” Parks told The Badger Herald before the election. “It is a crying shame what it costs to live here.”

Verveer said Parks always gave a great speech and in addition to his strong political beliefs, he had a very good sense of humor.

“He was a very colorful character,” Verveer said. “He was always very entertaining.”