Connecticut has always been considered a progressive and groundbreaking state, and in 1990 voters spoke loudly by making history. Gary Franks became the first, and only black person to represent Connecticut in congress, and the first black Republican in congress in nearly 60 years.

In honor of black history month coming up next week, this Sunday’s Face the State flashback will take us back to that historic night and a report filed by David Ushery. You’ll see Franks addressing his supporters who propelled him to victory in the 5th congressional district, and former congressman and television anchorman Toby Moffett thanking his supporters for a fight they didn’t win.

This trailblazer went on to win re-election in 1992 and 1994, but lost in 1996. He later unsuccessfully challenged Senator Chris Dodd in 1998, and then vanished from the political scene and moved out of state.

You can watch the entire flashback right here: http://www.wfsb.com/video?autoStart=true&topVideoCatNo=default&clipId=9771739