ABOUT LYNETTE HALL

For Lynette Hall, community work isn’t just a profession — it’s a calling rooted in the legacy of Sacramento’s Black leadership and her family’s tradition of service. Born and raised in the city, Hall has spent her career making sure Black residents have both a voice in government and a pathway to opportunity.

As Community Engagement Manager for the City of Sacramento, Hall leads a team committed to building trust between residents and City Hall. Her work ensures that Black communities — from Meadowview to Del Paso Heights — are not left out of conversations about growth, equity, and access.

Hall played a pivotal role in the African American Historical Project Context Statement, a landmark city effort that documents more than 150 years of Black history in Sacramento. Her leadership in hosting community meetings and engaging elders, some in their 90s, helped preserve stories that might otherwise have been lost — ensuring that the contributions and triumphs of Black Sacramentans are written into the city’s official history.

Beyond this groundbreaking work, Hall developed the award-winning Community Ambassador Program, which connects trusted neighborhood leaders to city government, and co-leads the Neighborhood Development Action Team, advancing equitable investment across Sacramento’s diverse communities.

Grounded in integrity, empathy, and accountability, Hall’s leadership reflects a truth she learned early from her parents: power is not about position, but about how you show up for others. Through her work, she continues to open doors and strengthen the bonds that make Sacramento’s Black community a cornerstone of the city’s future.

ON LEADERSHIP AND INFLUENCE

What does “Black Power and Influence” mean to you?
For me, having power and influence as a Black leader in Sacramento is deeply personal. I was born and raised here, and I carry the example of my parents, who showed me that leadership isn’t about titles or recognition — it’s about how you treat people, how you show up, and the legacy you leave behind.

Leadership Lesson:
Integrity and accountability must guide everything you do. Leadership isn’t about being comfortable; it’s about showing up with honesty, consistency, and courage, even when it’s hard.

Who inspires you most and why?
My mother, Ella Hall-Kelley, has been my greatest inspiration. She always centered Black voices and uplifted our community. I want my daughter to see that same example — of advocacy, leadership, and purpose.

What are the biggest opportunities you see for Sacramento’s Black community in the years ahead?
The biggest opportunity is to unite around a shared economic agenda — one that closes the racial wealth gap, supports small businesses, and prepares our community to lead in new industries like artificial intelligence. If we plan, collaborate, and push for equitable access to resources, we can build a stronger, more inclusive Sacramento for generations to come.

ON EVERYDAY LIFE

Song/Artist On Repeat: Leon Thomas, October London and Lucy Pearl (You).

Recharge Ritual: Massage and hot tub time.

Weekend in Sacramento: In my bed — rest is resistance.

Hidden Passion: Horseback riding and writing poetry.

We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to our “Onyx 25” sponsors for their generous support: