{{short description|COGIC minister: Bishop of Vermont Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction}}
{{Infobox Christian leader | type = Bishop | church = | honorific-prefix = His Grace The Right Reverend Dr. | name = Talbert Wesley Swan II | honorific-suffix = | title = | image = BishopSwanCathedra2.jpg | caption = | archdiocese = Massachusetts | diocese = Massachusetts Greater Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction, United States of America | see = | appointed = December 2025 | enthroned = April 2026 | ended = | predecessor = Bishop Bryant Robinson, Jr. | successor = | ordination = August 15, 1991 | ordained_by = Louis C. Young | consecration = November 9, 2014 | consecrated_by = Charles Edward Blake, Sr. | cardinal = | rank = | previous_post = Auxiliary Bishop of Greater Massachusetts (2014–2016), Bishop of Nova Scotia (2016–2022), Bishop of Vermont (2022-2026) | other_post = Assistant General Secretary, General Board Clerk, Director of Social Justice Ministry | birth_name = | birth_date = {{Birth date and age|1965|4|24}} | birth_place = Springfield, Massachusetts, U.S. | death_date = | death_place = | buried = | religion = Church of God in Christ | spouse = Cynthia Ann Davis Swan | children = 10 | occupation = | profession = | education = {{ubl|Hartford Seminary|Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary|Harvard Divinity School|Carolina University}} | signature = | motto = ''Bless His Name'' }}
{{Infobox bishopstyles | name= Talbert Wesley Swan II | dipstyle= *His Grace *The Right Reverend | offstyle=Your Grace | relstyle=Bishop | image = }} '''Talbert Wesley Swan II''' (born April 24, 1965) is an American religious leader. He is a prelate in the Church of God in Christ serving as the bishop of the Massachusetts Greater Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction in the United States. Swan is the fifth leader of the jurisdiction and oversees COGIC congregations throughout Massachusetts and in contiguous states. Swan serves the Church of God in Christ as assistant general secretary, general board clerk, and director of Social Justice Ministry.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.masslive.com/living/2021/06/bishop-talbert-swan-named-director-of-social-justice-for-church-of-god-in-christ.html|title = Bishop Talbert Swan named director of Social Justice for Church of God in Christ|date = 28 June 2021}}</ref> Swan is also the National Chaplain of Iota Phi Theta fraternity and the host of a radio talk show, ''The Spoken Word''.
Swan has faced criticism including accusations of being a "rabble-rouser", who supports Black nationalism and having made racist, homophobic, and antisemitic comments.<ref name="WashingtonPost" /><ref name="DailyBeast">{{cite news |last=Pagano|first=John-Paul|date=November 8, 2022|title=The Dangerous Mainstreaming of Kanye West and Kyrie Irving's Brand of Antisemitism|url=https://www.thedailybeast.com/the-dangerous-mainstreaming-of-kanye-west-and-kyrie-irvings-brand-of-antisemitism?ref=scrol|work=The Daily Beast}}</ref> While Dr. Swan has faced criticism from some commentators who have characterized his rhetoric as controversial, his decades-long record of public service and advocacy has also earned widespread recognition as a leading voice for civil rights and community reform. As president of the Greater Springfield NAACP, he has been actively involved in efforts addressing police accountability, voting rights, and economic inequality, and has participated in initiatives such as coalitions to combat food insecurity and community violence.<ref>Heinonen, Sarah. [https://thereminder.com/local-news/hampden-county/springfield/western-mass-leaders-come-together-to-combat-hunger/ "Western Mass Leaders Come Together to Combat Hunger"], ''The Reminder'', November 11, 2025</ref> Local and regional reporting has highlighted his role in advancing police reform discussions following federal findings of civil rights violations in Springfield and his ongoing engagement with public officials to improve community relations.<ref>Paleologophulos, James. [https://www.wamc.org/news/2024-03-04/springfields-incoming-police-superintendent-says-hes-ready-for-the-role "Springfield’s incoming police superintendent says he’s ready for the role"], ''WAMC'', March 4, 2024</ref> He has also received multiple awards for social justice advocacy and has been recognized for his sustained commitment to uplifting marginalized communities and addressing systemic inequities.<ref>Gibson, Precious. [https://balleralert.com/profiles/blogs/bishop-talbert-swan-rides-hard-for-the-black-community-we-have-to-stan/ "Reasons Why We Love Bishop Talbert Swan"], ''Baller Alert'', April 4, 2024</ref>
==Early life==
Talbert Swan was born in Springfield, Massachusetts, and is the son of Fred Allen Swan, Sr. and DeLois Fason Swan.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.cogic.org/publicpolicy/about/leadership/ |website=Church Of God In Christ |access-date=11 August 2023|title=COGIC Office of Public Policy |date=7 July 2014 }}</ref> He attended Van Sickle Junior High School and Classical High School<ref>{{cite web |url=https://old-friends.co/studentRecord.php?s=110*93502&dd= |website=Old Friends |access-date=31 December 2021|title=Student Info: Old-Friends }}</ref> in Springfield, and the University of Massachusetts in Amherst.
==Education==
He earned a Bachelor of Science in computer science from Western New England University<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.masslive.com/news/2019/03/bishop-talbert-swan-to-take-part-in-online-chat-during-history-channel-airing-of-jesus-his-life.html|title = Bishop Talbert Swan to take part in History Channel online chat during airing of 'Jesus: His Life|date = 23 March 2019}}</ref> and an Associate of Science and Bachelor of Science in religious studies from Charter Oak State College, before attending the Hartford Seminary where he earned a Master of Arts in theology. Swan earned graduate certificates in Faith Based Community and Economic Development from Harvard Divinity School<ref>"Alumni/ae Directory 2004, Harvard Divinity School," ''Bernard C. Harris Publishing Company'',2004, p111.</ref> and attended Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, graduating Magna Cum Laude with a Master of Divinity in Urban Ministry.<ref>"Alumni/ae Directory 2009, Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary," ''The Data Company Publishing Concepts'',2009, p123.</ref> Bishop Swan completed his Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.) at Carolina University, where his research focused on developing a practical ministry model to strengthen the social witness of congregations through structured community engagement, leadership development, and collaborative partnerships. His work bridges theological conviction with actionable strategies that address social and economic challenges in urban communities. <ref>[https://springofhopechurch.org/our-pastor "About Our Senior Pastor"], ''Spring of Hope Church''</ref>
==Career==
===Ordination and early ministry=== Swan was ordained as an elder by Bishop Louis C. Young on August 15, 1991. <ref>[https://springofhopechurch.org/our-pastor "About Our Senior Pastor"], ''Spring of Hope Church''</ref> Swan served as youth minister at the Spring of Hope Church of God in Christ before founding the Solid Rock Church of God in Christ in 1994. <ref>[https://springofhopechurch.org/our-pastor "About Our Senior Pastor"], ''Spring of Hope Church''</ref> In January 2009, the Solid Rock and Spring of Hope Churches merged and Swan was installed as pastor on May 31, 2009. <ref>[https://springofhopechurch.org/our-pastor "About Our Senior Pastor"], ''Spring of Hope Church''</ref>
Swan has served the Church of God in Christ in the Office of the General Secretary since 2001. During that time he served as: special assistant to the general secretary, assistant general secretary for statistics, and currently as the assistant general secretary/administration.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Staff | COGIC General Secretary's Office |url=http://www.cogicgensec.com/about-us/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170324232037/http://www.cogicgensec.com/about-us/ |archive-date=2017-03-24 |access-date=2017-04-19}}</ref> Swan also serves the denomination as clerk of the general board and the director of Social Justice Ministry. He previously served as associate White House liaison, and senior advisor to Presiding Bishop Charles Edward Blake, Sr.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Leadership |date=7 July 2014 |url=http://www.cogic.org/publicpolicy/about/leadership/ |access-date=May 2, 2020}}</ref>
===Ministry as bishop === On April 3, 2014, Swan was appointed Auxiliary Bishop of the Greater Massachusetts Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction by Charles Edward Blake, Sr., Presiding bishop, and the General Board of the Church of God in Christ.<ref>Johnson, Patrick. [http://www.masslive.com/news/index.ssf/2014/06/rev_talbert_swan_named_bishop.html "Rev. Talbert Swan of Springfield named bishop in Church of God in Christ"], ''Springfield Republican'', June 19, 2014</ref> His appointment was ratified by the General Assembly and he was consecrated bishop on November 9, 2014, during the 107th Annual Holy Convocation.<ref>Berry, Conor. [http://www.masslive.com/news/index.ssf/2014/11/springfield_pastor_talbert_swa.html "Springfield Pastor Talbert Swan II consecrated bishop in the Church of God in Christ"], ''Springfield Republican'', November 14, 2014</ref>
On June 6, 2016, Blake named Swan the third bishop of the Nova Scotia Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction.<ref>Goonan, Peter. [http://www.masslive.com/news/index.ssf/2016/06/bishop_talbert_w_swan_ii_appoi.html "Talbert W. Swan II appointed to bishop post in Nova Scotia, Canada"], ''Springfield Republican'', June 8, 2016</ref> Swan oversaw all member churches in the Nova Scotia province as well as congregations in Massachusetts, New York, and Pennsylvania. He officially received his episcopal assignment during the 109th Annual Holy Convocation on November 13, 2016. He served in that post until January 2022. <ref>[https://www.masslive.com/news/2016/06/bishop_talbert_w_swan_ii_appoi.html “Talbert W. Swan II appointed to bishop post in Nova Scotia, Canada”]</ref>
In January 2022, Swan was appointed prelate of the Vermont Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction by Presiding Bishop John Drew Sheard Sr.<ref>Deforge, Jeanette. [https://www.masslive.com/news/2022/02/springfields-talbert-swan-named-regional-bishop-for-church-of-god-in-christ.html "Springfield’s Talbert Swan named regional bishop for Church of God in Christ"], ''Springfield Republican'', January 31, 2022</ref> Swan succeeded Bishop Loran Mann, who died in May 2021.<ref>Taylor, Rob Jr. [https://newpittsburghcourier.com/2021/05/06/bishop-loran-mann-a-trailblazer-and-pittsburgh-icon-dies-at-74/ "Bishop Loran Mann, a trailblazer and Pittsburgh icon, dies at 74"]</ref> Bishop Mann also served as a member of the denomination's General Board, the Executive Branch of government. <ref>[https://newpittsburghcourier.com/2021/04/03/bishop-loran-mann-elected-to-the-church-of-god-in-christ-general-board/ “Bishop Loran Mann elected to the Church Of God In Christ General Board”]</ref>
On December 8, 2025, Presiding Bishop John Drew Sheard Sr., with the unanimous approval of the general board, appointed Swan as prelate of the Massachusetts Greater Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction<ref>Parnass, Larry. [https://www.masslive.com/westernmass/2026/01/springfield-pastor-tapped-for-larger-role-in-national-denomination.html "Springfield pastor tapped for larger role in national denomination"], ''Springfield Republican'', January 29, 2026</ref> , succeeding the late bishop Bryant Robinson, Jr. As prelate, Swan oversees member churches throughout Massachusetts and contiguous states. <ref>[https://www.masslive.com/westernmass/2026/01/springfield-pastor-tapped-for-larger-role-in-national-denomination.html “Springfield pastor tapped for larger role in national denomination”]</ref>
==Advocacy== Swan is the president of the Greater Springfield NAACP. In 2022 he was reelected to his seventh 2 year.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Swan reelected president of Greater Springfield NAACP |url=https://www.masslive.com/news/2022/12/swan-reelected-president-of-greater-springfield-naacp.html |last=Republican |first=The |date=December 3, 2022 |website=masslive.com}}</ref> He has advocated for police reform, voting rights, and community responsibility.<ref>Vannah, Tom. [http://valleyadvocate.com/2014/06/25/real-talk/ "Real Talk"], ''Valley Advocate'', June 25, 2014</ref> Defeating his rival by a three-to-one margin in the 2011 election for president of the Greater Springfield NAACP, Swan's election reportedly created anticipation of a resurgence of social activism in the region.<ref>Turner, Maureen. [http://valleyadvocate.com/2011/07/28/a-new-pulpit/ "A New Pulpit"], ''Valley Advocate'', July 28, 2011</ref> The ''Valley Advocate'' noted that this led to a revitalization of the organization and its voice on critical community issues.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2012 Valley Advocate Halos and Horns |url=https://valleyadvocate.com/2012/12/21/2012-valley-advocate-halos-and-horns/ |author=Valley Advocate Staff|date=December 21, 2012}}</ref> Swan outlined the priorities of the branch as taking a renewed focus on education, health, economic empowerment, political action and social justice advocacy.<ref>Rizzuto, Robert. [http://www.masslive.com/news/index.ssf/2011/09/springfield_naacp_president_ta.html "Springfield NAACP President Talbert W. Swan II outlines priorities"], ''Springfield Republican'', September 24, 2011</ref>
Bishop Swan has been in high demand as a speaker, preacher, and presenter across the nation. He has spoken on over 40 college campuses, was a keynote speaker for the annual worship service of the 112th NAACP National Convention, Black Excellence on the Hill by the MA Black and Latino Caucus, the 50th, 57th, 58th, and 60th anniversaries of the March on Washington, the 60th Anniversary Conclave of Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, The 61st National Convention of the National Conference of Negro Women, and the 54th Congressional Black Caucus Annual Legislative Conference. <ref> The Republican Newsroom [https://www.masslive.com/news/2023/08/bishop-talbert-swan-ii-speaks-at-event-marking-anniversary-of-march-on-washington.html"Bishop Talbert Swan II speaks at event marking anniversary of March on Washington"], ‘’Masslive”, Aug 26, 2023</ref>
===Police reform=== Swan, a longtime advocate for police reform, first came to national attention in the wake of receiving a harassing telephone call from Joseph Bradley, a Springfield police officer. Bradley made the call from the Public Safety office of Western New England University and mocked the burning of black churches in the south. The call was made July 2, 1996, the day Swan was hosting a service to raise funds to assist southern churches that had been burned.<ref>Mcauliffe, Michael. "Blacks called to action on church fires", ''Springfield Union News'', July 3, 1996, B4.</ref> After confirming that the racist call was made by Bradley, Springfield Deputy Chief of Police Daniel Spellacy apologized to Swan, his congregation, and the African American community, and Mayor Michael Albano vowed that the city would not tolerate such racist acts.<ref>Mcauliffe, Michael and Malley, Carol. "White officer linked to call: City's police apologize to blacks," ''Springfield Union News'', July 6, 1996 A1.</ref> Mayor Albano said that the call to Swan "borders on crisis" and announced the formation of a community coalition to deal with racial tensions.<ref>Stephenson, D.L. "Racial crisis possible says Albano", ''Springfield Union News'', July 22, 1996, B1.</ref>
Responding to the dismissal of assault charges against white police officer, Jeffrey Asher, who was caught on video kicking a handcuffed Roy Parker in the head, Swan organized a rally attracting hundreds, that was held across from Springfield City Hall.<ref>"Police treatment of blacks focus of rally in wake of taped incident," ''Nashua Telegraph'', June 28, 1997, p3.</ref> Citing the reluctance of those in leadership to condemn Asher's actions because of Parker's prior criminal history, Swan condemned the silence of elected officials and clergy. He noted that "an open condemnation of this incident is long overdue" and that "the silence of those in leadership is shameful."<ref>Kelly, Ray. "Ministers decrying 'silence'", ''Springfield Union News'', April 12, 1997, Front Page.</ref> Asher was eventually arraigned on assault charges,<ref>Flynn, Jack. "Officer arraigned in assault case", ''Springfield Union News'', B1.</ref> but was eventually cleared of the criminal charges. The Police Commission suspended him for one year and ordered him to undergo "sensitivity training." Asher's suspension was reduced to six months by a labor arbitrator, with Asher receiving $20,000 in back pay.<ref name="auto">Turner, Maureen. [http://valleyadvocate.com/2012/03/05/asher-conviction-offers-a-glimmer-of-hope/ "Asher Conviction Offers a "Glimmer of Hope"], ''Valley Advocate'', May 5, 2012</ref>
Swan was the recipient of a racist fax by Springfield Police, a charge denied by the department. Swan reported that he received a fax laced with racial slurs and a warning to "leave our Police Department alone." In spite of the denial from the department, the telephone number displayed on the fax was that of a police department fax machine.<ref>"Springfield Police Get their fax straight", ''Fitchburg Sentinel And Enterprise'', July 20, 2000, p 15.</ref> The Springfield police launched an investigation into Swan, accusing him of sending the faxes to himself. District Attorney William Bennett met with Swan and asked to issue an apology to the Police Department. Swan refused and viewed the actions of the department as the latest in a series of harassing acts dating back to the racist telephone call received from Officer Joseph Bradley.<ref>Turner, Maureen. "Getting the Fax Straight," ''The Valley Advocate'', August 24, 2000, 4.</ref> Noting that Swan had made enemies "both among the old guard in the black community and among whites who don't appreciate his efforts to shake up a system that works pretty well for them," ''Valley Advocate Editor'' Tom Vannah opined that the rumors regarding the fax incident, although unproven, may have been "damaging enough to undercut the work" Swan's tried to do.<ref>Turner, Maureen and Vannah, Tom. "26 Pols You Should Know: A roster of the rogues, the righteous and the rabble rousers who shape Valley politics", ''Valley Advocate'', September 14–20, 2000.</ref>
Swan sought an independent investigation into the controversial 2011 shooting of 18-year-old Tahiem Goffe by a Springfield policeman, which was investigated by the Springfield police and ruled justified by the local district attorney.<ref>Sullivan, Jack. [https://commonwealthmagazine.org/criminal-justice/001-clearing-the-cops/ "Clearing the cops: Do district attorneys rubber-stamp police use of deadly force?"], ''Commonwealth Magazine'', January 15, 2014</ref> Swan urged District Attorney Mark G. Mastroianni called to appoint a special prosecutor to investigate the incident, "to ensure that proper police procedures were employed and that the investigation will not be compromised."<ref>Turner, Maureen. [http://valleyadvocate.com/2012/01/19/investigating-the-springfield-police-department/ "Investigating the Springfield Police Department"], January 15, 2012</ref> Swan argued the need for independent investigators in any cases involving a shooting by a police office. He noted that historically, the office of District Attorney has not been an effective instrument for insuring transparency.<ref>Turner, Maureen. "Investigating the Springfield Police Department," Valley Advocate, January 19, 2012.</ref> Swan has called for police accountability and the implementation of civilian police oversight.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Swan Calls For Two-City Police Commission |url=http://whmp.com/news/160061-swan-calls-for-two-city-police-commission/ |access-date=May 2, 2020 |archive-date=December 5, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191205014303/https://whmp.com/news/160061-swan-calls-for-two-city-police-commission/ |url-status=dead }}</ref>
Swan weighed in on several high-profile cases involving police shootings. After George Zimmerman was acquitted of the murder of 17 year old Trayvon Martin, Swan helped to organize the 'Justice for Trayvon Martin' rally, part of a 100-city vigil that was held across the country.<ref>Zeitlin, Hugh. [http://www.westernmassnews.com/story/22893639/western-ma-residents-hold-rally-for-trayvon-martin "Western MA residents hold rally for Trayvon Martin"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170602172816/http://www.westernmassnews.com/story/22893639/western-ma-residents-hold-rally-for-trayvon-martin |date=2017-06-02 }}, ''Western Mass News'', July 20, 2013</ref> Swan met with Massachusetts legislators to rally opposition to 'Stand Your Ground' legislation in the House of Representatives. Swan noted that we "should be encouraging non-violence and the de-escalation of conflicts when a safe retreat can be made."<ref>Turner, Maureen. "Standing Against 'Stand Your Ground'," Valley Advocate, May 19, 2012.</ref> The legislation was not passed.
Swan is a former police chaplain for the Springfield Police Department. In 2005 he organized the Rev. Theodore N. Brown Anti Gang Initiative. The effort was named in honor of Rev. Theodore Brown, a school counselor who was murdered by 17 year old Corey Ramos.<ref>Stacom, Don. "Schools Move to Add Security", ''Hartford Courant'', December 7, 2001.</ref> In honor of Brown, Swan wrote a book, ''Addressing Violence in Springfield Schools: We Cannot Allow the Death of Rev. Theodore N. Brown to be in Vain''.<ref>{{Cite book |last=results |first=search |title=Addressing Violence in Springfield Schools: We Cannot Allow the Death of Reverend Theodore N. Brown to be in Vain |date=28 November 2002 |publisher=Trumpet in Zion Publishing |isbn=0971635501}}</ref> The book presents Swan's analysis on school violence and several models of education.<ref>Dobbs, G. Michael. "Brown Remembered in Book", ''The Reminder'', January 8, 2003.</ref> The anti-gang program trained street workers who frequented gang 'hot spots' trying to break through to young men and women involved in gangs, drugs, and violence or being drawn into such activity.<ref>Lowney, Mary Ellen. "Activists target gang 'hot spots'", ''Springfield Republican'', May 20, 2005, A1.</ref> Swan has worked with police departments and coordinated meetings at his church with witnesses to crimes in efforts to foster regular communication with law enforcement.<ref>Banks, Adele M. [http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2015/01/11/police-black-churches_n_6443664.html "Police Chief To Black Churches: 'We Can't Do This Without You Guys'"], ''Huffington Post'', January 11, 2015.</ref> Swan was appointed by Massachusetts attorney general Maura Healey to her Advisory Council on Racial Justice and Equity<ref>{{Cite web |title=Racial Justice and Equity Council Members |url=http://www.mass.gov/ago/about-the-ago/community-programs/racial-justice-and-equity-council-members.pdf |access-date=May 2, 2020}}</ref> and by Springfield City Council President Orlando Ramos to the Committee on Police and Community Relations.<ref>Goonan, Peter. [http://www.masslive.com/politics/index.ssf/2017/02/springfield_city_council_names.html "Springfield City Council names committee to explore improvements in police-community relations"], ''Springfield Republican'', February 16, 2007</ref> Swan was appointed to a three-year term beginning in 2021 as a member of the Commission on the Status of African Americans, a commission created by the landmark Massachusetts Police Reform law.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://casetext.com/statute/general-laws-of-massachusetts/part-i-administration-of-the-government/title-i-jurisdiction-and-emblems-of-the-commonwealth-the-general-court-statutes-and-public-documents/chapter-3-the-general-court/section-372-effective-712021-commission-on-status-of-african-americans|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230409112207/https://casetext.com/statute/general-laws-of-massachusetts/part-i-administration-of-the-government/title-i-jurisdiction-and-emblems-of-the-commonwealth-the-general-court-statutes-and-public-documents/chapter-3-the-general-court/section-372-effective-712021-commission-on-status-of-african-americans|url-status=dead|archive-date=April 9, 2023|title=Section 3:72 - Commission on status of African Americans, Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 3 § 72 | Casetext Search + Citator}}</ref>
In 2021, Swan called for the dismissal of Springfield Police Commissioner Cheryl Claprood<ref>Aresko, Nick. [https://www.wwlp.com/news/local-news/bishop-talbert-swan-calls-for-springfield-pd-commissioners-resignation/ "Bishop Talbert Swan calls for Springfield PD commissioner’s resignation "], ‘’WWLP’’, June 7, 2021</ref> after the results of a Department of Justice investigation revealed systemic abuse by police toward Black residents.<ref>Department of Justice [https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/justice-department-announces-findings-investigation-narcotics-bureau-springfield "Justice Department Announces Findings of Investigation into Narcotics Bureau of Springfield, Massachusetts Police Department"], ‘’Justice.gov", July 8, 2020</ref> Swan pushed for the federal government to force the police department to be accountable for its actions by calling for a consent decree from the U.S. Department of Justice. In 2022, the DOJ announced a consent decree mandating a series of reforms.<ref>Brown, Karen. [https://www.nepm.org/regional-news/2022-04-13/justice-department-and-springfield-officials-announce-police-department-consent-decree "Justice Department and Springfield officials announce police department consent decree"], ''New England Public Media'', April 13, 2022</ref>
===Voting rights=== Swan was the lead plaintiff in a 1996 federal lawsuit against the city of Springfield seeking to declare the at large representation system unconstitutional on the grounds that it diluted the votes of African Americans, Latinos, and other communities of color. The lawsuit sought to change the all at-large election of the city council to one including ward representatives. It also sought an injunction against the current voting scheme.<ref>Spencer, Buffy. "At-large elections challenged," Springfield Union News, January 14, 1997, B1</ref> Referring to Springfield's at-large city council as a "bastion of privilege that systematically excludes residents from Springfield's poor and non-white neighborhoods," the Boston Globe brought national attention to Swan's efforts to replace the voting system in a featured article picturing Swan in front of his church.<ref>Emery, Theo. "Turf battle: Springfield groups launch fight for at-large council seats," Boston Globe, August 10, 1997</ref>
A successful signature drive placed the question for ward representation on the November 1997 ballot. On election day, 58 percent of the voters were in favor of the question, which called for eight ward seats and three at-large seats.<ref name="auto1">Goonan, Peter. "Plaintiffs offer to withdraw ward suit," Springfield Union News, November 18, 1997, A1</ref> Although the ballot question received a majority vote, it fell short by 15,000 votes of the required number to become law. Swan, on behalf of the plaintiffs, offered to drop the lawsuit if city councilors agree to honor the will of the electorate and implement the ward system.<ref name="auto1" />
In January 1998 Mayor Michael Albano again filed legislation with the city council to change to a ward system but it twice rejected the proposal.<ref>Turner, Maureen. "Vote of No Confidence", ''Valley Advocate'', January 29, 1998</ref> Swan then contacted the U.S. Department of Justice who assigned an investigator to consider if voting rights laws were being violated.<ref>Turner, Maureen. "A Small Step Uphill: Feds agree to examine whether Springfield election rules unfairly hinder minorities", ''Valley Advocate'', December 24, 1998.</ref> Swan also requested assistance from the department in the federal lawsuit, alleging that the at-large system "was adopted and is being maintained purposefully to dilute, minimize and cancel out the voting strengths of blacks and Latinos."<ref>Goonan, Peter. "Voting rights group seeks intervention", ''Springfield Union News'', January 25, 1999, B1.</ref>
Eventually, Mayor Charles V. Ryan and City Councilor Jose Tosado proposed a home-rule amendment that would expand the council to thirteen members, including eight warda and five at-large seats. The home-rule petition was adopted by the City Council 7–2, and was later passed by the state Senate and House and signed by the governor. On election day, November 6, 2007, city residents voted 72% in favor of changing the all at large election of the City Council and School Committee to one including ward representation.<ref>Rivais, Larry. [http://www.masslive.com/news/index.ssf/2009/08/ward_voting_brings_change_to_s.html "Ward representation brings change to voting in Springfield municipal election"], ''Springfield Republican'', August 9, 2009</ref> On November 3, 2009, Springfield held its first ward elections in 50 years.{{cn|date=April 2026}}
In October 2011, Swan joined with the Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights, the ACLU and City Councilor Zaida Luna to send an urgent request to the US Department of Justice for intervention in the City of Springfield regarding widespread voter rights violations.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Press release |url=http://www.springfieldinstitute.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/zaida-press-release-110811.pdf |date=2011 |publisher=www.springfieldinstitute.org |access-date=2020-03-20}}</ref> The group cited multiple incidents and areas of noncompliance with the Federal Voting Rights Act and the Department of Justice's 2006 settlement order with the City of Springfield. Teams from the US Department of Justice and the US attorney general's office arrived in Springfield on November 8, 2011.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Justice Department to Monitor Elections in California, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Ohio and Texas |url=https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/2011/November/11-crt-1464.html |website=www.justice.gov|date=7 November 2011 }}</ref>
In 2024, Swan was named the national chairperson of COGIC Counts, the voting initiative of the Church Of God In Christ. Swan was tasked with utilizing a variety of means to maximize voting participation among the denomination's congregants across the nation with a goal of registering everyone eligible in the denomination's churches to vote and mobilizing them to vote in the 2024 election.<ref>Canton, Dave. [https://www.masslive.com/westernmass/2024/08/springfield-minister-to-head-national-voting-initiative.html "Springfield minister to head national voting initiative"], ''Springfield Republican'', August 18, 2024</ref>
===Unresolved murders of Black women=== Bishop Swan challenged the mayor and police department regarding the murders of four black women in the Western Massachusetts region. Media reports of the victims described them as drug users and police seemed to have no leads regarding their assailants. Swan and other activists accused the police department of not pursuing their cases as vigorously as other victims because they were poor and black. Under pressure from the community, Mayor Michael Albano authorized unlimited funds for overtime for police to solve the murders.<ref>Spencer, Buffy and Flynn, Jack. "Mayor vows help in probe of slayings", ''Springfield Republican'', February 14, 1998</ref> Swan organized an effort to erect a stone monument honoring the life of the four victims and other women of color whose murders were unsolved. After receiving approval from the Springfield Parks Department, Swan was told that he would need to receive approval from the Springfield Historical Society to erect the monument in the triangle of Mason Square, an historically African American neighborhood where most of the victims lived, The Historical Society required Swan to get approval from the four surrounding neighborhood councils. Failing to get the approval of one of the councils, Swan's request was denied.<ref>Spencer, Buffy. "Dispute flares over victims monument", ''Springfield Republican'', February 17, 2017</ref> Swan persisted regarding the placement of the monument and challenging the city regarding their investigation of the murders.<ref>Appleton, John. "Memorial to slain women debated," ''Springfield Republican'', May 3, 1999</ref> Mayor Albano, using executive authority, allowed the monument to be erected outside the Springfield District Court and Alfred Gaynor was eventually arrested, convicted, and sentenced to four consecutive life sentences.<ref>Johnson, Patrick. "Grand jury indicts serial killer Alfred Gaynor for 4 additional murders", ''Springfield Republican'', October 21, 2010</ref>
==Controversial views and remarks==
===Homosexuality=== Swan is the editor of ''Closing the Closet: Testimonies of Deliverance from Homosexuality'', a book published in 2004, which details the testimonies of 23 individuals, including Darryl L. Foster and Alan Chambers, who claim to no longer be homosexual as a result of their religious experience.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Activist Wayne Besen Criticizes New Ex-gay Book - Ex-Gay Watch |url=https://exgaywatch.com/2004/09/activist-wayne/ |website=exgaywatch.com|date=6 September 2004 }}</ref> Swan has also taken issue with the comparison of the fight to legalize same-sex marriage with the civil rights struggle. He has said "homosexuality is a chosen lifestyle" and Black people can "ride down the street and get profiled just because of [their] skin color, [which] is something a homosexual will never go through."<ref>Lindsay, Jay [https://archive.boston.com/news/nation/articles/2003/11/29/black_conservatives_oppose_gay_marriage/ "Black conservatives oppose gay marriage Reject parallels with civil rights movement"], ''Boston Globe'', November 29, 2003</ref> After the Supreme Court ruling in ''Obergefell v. Hodges'' legalized same sex marriage across the United States, Swan held that gay struggles could not be compared to the history of the enslavement of blacks.<ref name="WashingtonPost">Banks, Adelle M. [https://web.archive.org/web/20201108121142/https://www.washingtonpost.com/national/religion/black-clergy-walk-a-fine-line-between-religious-liberty-discrimination/2015/07/17/5cf55204-2cc1-11e5-960f-22c4ba982ed4_story.html "Black clergy walk a fine line between religious liberty, discrimination"], ''Washington Post'', July 17, 2015</ref> Swan was quoted in 2015 as saying that he agreed "the church-run bakery down the street from his congregation should have the right to deny its services to a gay couple."<ref name="WashingtonPost" />
In November 2016, Swan signed onto a letter supporting religious freedom laws, which have been condemned by some as legalizing discrimination against LGBTQ people.<ref name="Hillary">{{Cite web |title=Bishop Talbert Swan, black leaders take aim at Hillary Clinton's 'religious freedom' stance|url=https://www.masslive.com/politics/2016/11/bishop_talbert_swan_black_lead.html |date=1 November 2016}}</ref> The letter also condemns abortion saying "abortion in the black community has had a catastrophic impact" and condemned Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton for her "unconscionable silence in the face of such destruction of innocent black life."<ref name="Hillary" />
Sam Brownback, a Republican politician, and former U.S. Senator and Governor from Kansas, said that Swan is among a growing number of African American leaders speaking out and "working to prevent promoters of same-sex marriage from hijacking the civil rights movement."<ref>Brownback, Sam. ''From Power to Purpose: A Remarkable Journey of Faith and Compassion'', Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 2007, 85.</ref> Peter Sprigg, author and Senior Fellow for Policy Studies at the evangelical activist group Family Research Council quoted Swan as stating that homosexuals will never face the kind of profiling African Americans face.<ref>Sprigg, Peter. ''Outrage: How Gay Activists and Liberal Judges are Trashing Democracy to Redefine Marriage'', Washington, DC: Regnery Publishing, 2004, 53.</ref>
===Racial views=== In 2021, Tim Scott, an African American Republican, gave the Republican response to President Joe Biden's first address to Congress.<ref name="TimScott">{{Cite book |title=Beyond Biden|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=hQUSEAAAQBAJ&dq=talbert+swan&pg=PT59|date=2021|isbn=9781546000266 |last1=Gingrich |first1=Newt |publisher=Center Street}}</ref> In his speech, Scott stated that "America is not a racist country." Swan in a tweet responding to the speech referred to Scott as "Uncle Tim", a derivative of the racial slur Uncle Tom, and a "cunning white supremacist apologist."<ref name="TimScott" />
Swan stated on Twitter in 2022 that "whiteness is an unrelenting, demonic force of evil."<ref name="DavidBernstein">{{Cite book |title=Woke Antisemitism|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=BJ6aEAAAQBAJ&dq=talbert+swan&pg=PT116|date=2021|isbn=9781637587683 |last1=Bernstein |first1=David L. |publisher=Wicked Son}}</ref> The tweet was condemned by some as demonizing and disparaging white people.<ref name="DavidBernstein" />
Following Nikki Haley declaring her candidacy for the Republican nomination for president in the 2024 U.S. presidential election, Swan tweeted "NIMRATA RANDHAWA HALEY Say your real name @NikkiHaley. Are you afraid the white folks you’re kowtowing to won’t vote for someone named Nimrata."<ref name="NikkiHaley">{{Cite web |title=Liberals, NAACP activists target Nikki Haley with debunked claim that she avoids 'brown-person-sounding' name|publisher=Fox News |url=https://www.foxnews.com/politics/naacp-leader-leftist-activists-target-nikki-haley-debunked-claim-name|date=15 February 2023}}</ref> However, PolitiFact called the claim that Haley "whitewashed" her name a "pants-on-fire" falsehood; Haley has gone by her middle name, Nikki, since she was a child.<ref name="NikkiHaley" />
During the Gaza war, Swan referred to Israel as a "white supremacist apartheid government" that is engaged in "murder, brutalization, and oppression of brown people in Gaza."<ref>{{cite news |last=Brown |first=Ann |date=October 25, 2023|title=Bishop Talbert Swan: America Is More Loyal To Israel Than Its Own Black American Citizens|url=https://moguldom.com/453499/bishop-talbert-swan-america-is-more-loyal-to-israel-than-its-own-black-american-citizens/}}</ref>
==Political activity== In 2006, Swan was one of several clergy that endorsed Deval Patrick for Governor of Massachusetts. After his victory as the first African-American governor in the history of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Patrick selected Swan as one of the speakers at the Interfaith Prayer Service preceding his Inaugural.<ref>Paulson, Michael. "Religious leaders embrace Patrick", ''The Boston Globe'', December 30, 2006, A1 Metro.</ref> Swan again endorsed Patrick in his 2010 bid for reelection and hosted Patrick at an Urban Town Hall Meeting at his church in Springfield.<ref>DeForge, Jeanette. [http://www.masslive.com/news/index.ssf/2010/04/springfield_residents_ask_gov.html "Springfield residents quiz Gov. Deval Patrick about casinos, police brutality"], ''Springfield Republican'', April 8, 2010</ref> Swan was again selected to speak during the Interfaith Prayer Service preceding Patrick's second Inaugural.{{cn|date=April 2026}}
In August 2012, Swan met with Elizabeth Warren in a closed session with other clergy hosted at his church. Swan noted that clergy had a responsibility to meet with candidates to "ascertain their veracity, political competence, ability to effectively manage crises and inspire confidence through outstanding leadership and their ability to produce tangible results that serve the needs of our constituents."<ref>Rizzuto, Robert. [http://www.masslive.com/politics/index.ssf/2012/08/elizabeth_warren_to_meet_with.html "Elizabeth Warren to meet with Rev. Talbert Swan in Springfield, visit Westfield, Pittsfield during two-day campaign swing in Western Massachusetts"], ''Springfield Republican'', August 4, 2012</ref> Taking issue with her opponent Scott Brown's heavy focus on calling her Native American heritage into question, Swan announced his support for Warren.<ref>Levenson, Michael. [https://www.bostonglobe.com/metro/2012/10/04/black-clergy-back-warren-join-menino-and-patrick-decrying-focus-heritage/gqZ5Sm6Fi9SD0LgUdpixyO/story.html "Black clergy in Boston endorse Warren"], ''Boston Globe''</ref> Swan's meeting with Warren also garnered support for her by other prominent clergy.<ref>Rizzuto, Robert. [http://www.masslive.com/politics/index.ssf/2012/08/elizabeth_warren_gets_nod_of_s.html "Elizabeth Warren gets endorsement from Archbishop Timothy Paul Baymon following meeting with black clergy in Springfield"], ''Springfield Republican'', August 6, 2012</ref>
Upon U.S. senator John Kerry's confirmation as Secretary of State under the administration of President Barack Obama, Ed Markey sought Swan's support in his bid to win the vacated senate seat. Swan organized a meeting between Markey and area clergy and noted that the meeting was "substantive and informative."<ref>Rizzuto, Robert. [http://www.masslive.com/politics/index.ssf/2013/02/rep_ed_markeys_senate_campaign.html "Rep. Ed Markey's Senate campaign gets consideration from Rev. Talbert Swan, black clergy in Springfield"], ''Springfield Republican'', February 19, 2013</ref> Swan played a similar role in vetting the positions of candidates for Hampden County District Attorney and<ref>Barry Stephanie. "Hampden district attorney candidates field questions at NAACP forum in Springfield", ''Springfield Republican'', June 26, 2014</ref> Hampden County Sheriff.<ref>Young, Shannon. "Hampden County sheriff candidates talk hiring practices, need for change in NAACP-sponsored debate", ''Springfield Republican'', June 28, 2016</ref> During the 2016 presidential election, Swan reportedly joined more than two dozen national black leaders in challenging Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton's stance on issues related to so-called "religious freedom."<ref>Young, Shannon. [http://www.masslive.com/politics/index.ssf/2016/11/bishop_talbert_swan_black_lead.html "Bishop Talbert Swan, black leaders take aim at Hillary Clinton's 'religious freedom' stance"], ''Springfield Republican'', November 1, 2016</ref>
Swan was a speaker at the Massachusetts sister march to the People's Climate Movement march held in Washington DC in 2017.<ref>Steele, Brian. [http://www.masslive.com/news/index.ssf/2017/04/hundreds_march_for_climate_jus.html "Hundreds march for climate justice in Springfield"], ''Springfield Republican'', April 30, 2017</ref> He said that climate justice and racial justice are closely related and that the most vulnerable and maligned populations get hit hardest by climate change.<ref>Goudreau, Chris. [http://valleyadvocate.com/2017/05/15/figures-new-england-in-climate-changes-crosshairs/ "Figures … New England In Climate Change's Crosshairs"], ''Valley Advocate'', May 15, 2017</ref> He was a speaker at the 60th anniversary of the March on Washington <ref>The Republican Newsroom [https://www.masslive.com/news/2023/08/bishop-talbert-swan-ii-speaks-at-event-marking-anniversary-of-march-on-washington.html], "Masslive", August 26, 2023</ref>
Swan was appointed to the Massachusetts Hate Crimes Task Force by Governor Charlie Baker in 2022. The task force focuses on hate crimes and has a wide-ranging mission including tracking the prevalence of the crimes, examining ways to prevent them and supporting victims of hate crimes. It also works with law enforcement to improve the investigation and prosecution of hate crimes.<ref>DeForge, Jeanette. [https://www.masslive.com/news/2022/03/springfield-bishop-talbert-swan-named-to-state-hate-crimes-task-force.html" Springfield Bishop Talbert Swan named to state Hate Crimes Task Force], The Republican, March 23, 2022</ref>
Bishop Swan was elected chair of the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of African American, which is charged with making policy recommendations based on research and analysis to the general court and executive agencies to ensure African Americans equitably benefit from and have access to government services and amend policies that have excluded African Americans.<ref>Springfield bishop elected chairman of state’s Commission on the Status of African Americans [https://www.masslive.com/springfield/2024/01/springfield-bishop-elected-chairman-of-states-commission-on-the-status-of-african-americans.html], "Masslive", January 14, 2024</ref>
===Honors/Awards/Recognitions===
Bishop Swan has received numerous awards lauding him for his work civil rights advocacy and race relations. For example, he was awarded the Social Justice Award for Race Relations by Martin Luther King, Jr. Family Services.<ref>Canton, Dave. [https://www.masslive.com/news/2022/04/martin-luther-king-jr-family-services-presents-5th-annual-social-justice-awards.html "Martin Luther King, Jr. Family Services presents 5th Annual Social Justice Awards"], masslive.com, April 23, 2022</ref> He is the recipient of the prestigious Civil Rights Advocacy Award by the National Action Network, a civil rights organization founded by Rev. Al Sharpton<ref>Caron, Matt. [http://wwlp.com/2017/04/27/bishop-talbert-swan-receiving-national-action-network-honor/ "Bishop Talbert Swan receiving National Action Network honor"], wwlp.com, April 27, 2017</ref> He received the NAACP James F. Hennessey Award for his work in civil rights advocacy.<ref>McGlaughlin, Susan. [http://www.masslive.com/news/index.ssf/2014/05/greater_springfield_naacp_pres.html "Greater Springfield NAACP President Talbert Swan receives award at 96th annual NAACP dinner held at Chez Josef"], ''Springfield Republican'', May 15, 2014</ref> Bishop Swan is also a recipient of the Ruth B. Loving Social Justice Activist Legacy Award.<ref>Johnson, Patrick. [https://www.masslive.com/springfield/2022/02/springfield-city-hall-ceremony-commemorates-start-of-black-history-month.html "Springfield City Hall ceremony commemorates start of Black History Month"], ''Springfield Republican'', Feb 1, 2022</ref>
On September 7, 2024, the city of Springfield, Swan's hometown, held a street naming ceremony in his honor, designating Alden Street, where his church, Spring of Hope Church of God in Christ, is located, as "Bishop Talbert Swan Way." Speakers at the event included: Springfield mayor Domenic Sarno, State Representative Bud L. Williams, City Councilor Lavar Click Bruce, and State Senator Adam Gomez. Swan noted that he was honored to be recognized by the city of his birth on the street that has been the headquarters of his family's activism for over four decades.<ref>McCorkindale, Emma. [https://www.wwlp.com/news/local-news/hampden-county/street-naming-ceremony-in-springfield-to-honor-bishop-talbert-swan/ "Street naming ceremony in Springfield to honor Bishop Talbert Swan"], ''WWLP'', Sep 7, 2024</ref>
On October 2, 2025, Bishop Swan was inducted into the Martin Luther King Jr. Board of Preachers at Morehouse College. The historic induction ceremony, held in Atlanta, honors distinguished clergy and lay leaders who “reflect the prophetic witness, moral courage, and unwavering commitment to justice” which the college promotes. Swan issued a statement that said it is a profound honor to be inducted since Dr. King’s life and message shaped his ministry and activism. <ref>O’Connor, Samantha and Trowbridge, Ryan. [https://www.westernmassnews.com/2025/10/02/bishop-swan-inducted-into-mlk-jr-board-preachers-atlanta/#:~:text=Bishop%20Swan%20inducted%20into%20MLK,All%20rights%20reserved "Bishop Swan inducted into MLK Jr. Board of Preachers in Atlanta"], ''Western Mass News'', Oct 2, 2025</ref>
===Twitter suspension=== Swan's Twitter account was suspended in August 2018 for what Twitter termed "hateful conduct." Swan believes the suspension was for a May tweet in which he used the term "coon" in reference to Black conservative Candace Owens.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Roman|first=Elizabeth|date=August 30, 2018|title=Bishop Talbert Swan permanently banned from Twitter for 'hateful conduct'|work=Springfield Republican|url=https://www.masslive.com/news/index.ssf/2018/08/bishop_talbert_swan_banned_fro.html}}</ref> After two weeks, Swan's account was reinstated by Twitter.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Johnson|first=Patrick|date=September 4, 2018|title=Twitter lifts 'permanent' ban on Springfield Bishop Talbert Swan's account|work=Springfield Republican|url=https://www.masslive.com/news/index.ssf/2018/09/twitter_lifts_permanent_ban_on.html}}</ref>
==References== {{reflist}}
==External links== * [http://413hope.org/ Spring of Hope Church of God in Christ] * [http://talbertswan.org/ TalbertSwan.org] * [http://naacpspringfield.org/ Greater Springfield NAACP] * [https://twitter.com/talbertswan?s=21&t=WMdMqTLjSBBnzLKe1iWM6Q @TalbertSwan]
{{s-start}} {{s-rel|Church of God in Christ Titles}} {{succession box | before=Bishop Loran Mann | title=Bishop of Vermont | years=2021–Present | after=Incumbent }}
{{s-bef|before=Bishop Roderick Wilson }} {{s-ttl|title=Bishop of Nova Scotia|years=2016–2021}} {{s-aft|after=Bishop Joe Wilkins}} {{s-end}} {{authority control}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Swan, Talbert Wesley II}} Category:1965 births Category:Living people Category:21st-century American bishops Category:Activists for African-American civil rights Category:Activists from Massachusetts Category:African-American religious leaders Category:African-American non-fiction writers Category:American Pentecostals Category:Charter Oak State College alumni Category:Church of God in Christ pastors Category:Clergy from Springfield, Massachusetts Category:Gordon–Conwell Theological Seminary alumni Category:Hartford Seminary alumni Category:Harvard Divinity School alumni Category:Western New England University alumni