As such, he became the first black alderman in Flanders.

Already, one prominent black alderman has said he would be the first to contribute to her campaign if she runs.

Washington garnered the support of all 16 black aldermen, even those who had been organization supporters.

Shortly after the incident, a black alderman told reporters that he believed the painting was the work of a Jewish artist.

Mr. Williams said he firmly backed the black aldermen's goals.

The Mayor then, Harold Washington, and a group of black aldermen said yes.

Two black aldermen have been sworn into office here, concluding a 2 1/2-year legal and political conflict over discrimination in City Council representation.

But Alderman Lee and the other black aldermen seem to be preoccupied by something much less tangible than their opponents' blood.

Afterward, a black alderman told reporters, "The fellow that drew that picture is Jewish."

Washington administration allies vowed to turn out of office the five black aldermen who supported Mr. Sawyer, whose other 24 votes came from white members.