Livingston Mayor Curtis Hayes To Be Honored By Local NAACP

The Cookeville/Putnam County NAACP chapter will recognize Livingston Mayor Curtis Hayes with the Diversity Award Saturday.

Hayes said being honored by the association is a humbling experience.

“Diversity is obviously very very important, and I’m very honored to have this award,” Hayes said. “I never thought in a million years that I would ever be receiving a NAACP award, but I’m grateful, and I’m thankful.”

Hayes has served as Livingston mayor for 15 years. Hayes said whether its appointing committee members or hiring employees, diversity plays a main role in his decisions.

“It is important to them that if they are coming in front of a committee that they see a diverse group and not just the ideal things and not just have the same.” Hayes said. “I think that minorities have certainly appreciated it.”

Hayes said his career in service started when he was 16 working with the city’s parks. Hayes said he later worked for the city police department and eventually ran for city council. Hayes said being elected as mayor shows the characteristics of the Livingston community.

“It shows that in some cases that a person’s skin color doesn’t matter if the person can get the job done,” Hayes said. “I think it just speaks volumes for the town of Livingston and the tax payers. I’m just honored to have the opportunity and have the occasion.”

Hayes said his message to other young minorities in the Upper Cumberland is to work hard. Hayes said his mother raised him to be the best and to believe in this country. Hayes said if you are willing to make sacrifices, you can get ahead.

The Annual Freedom Fund Celebration begins virtually at 6:00 p.m.