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The University of USF Scholarship: a digital repository @ Gleeson Library | Geschke Center

Leo T. McCarthy Center for Public Service and McCarthy Center Student Scholarship the Good

2020

Changemakers: Biographies of in San Francisco Who Made a Difference

David Donahue

Follow this and additional works at: https://repository.usfca.edu/mccarthy_stu

Part of the History Commons

CHANGEMAKERS

AFRICAN AMERICANS IN SAN FRANCISCO WHO MADE A DIFFERENCE

Biographies inspired by San Francisco’s Ella Hill Hutch Community Center murals researched, written, and edited by the University of San Francisco’s Martín-Baró Scholars and Esther Madríz Diversity Scholars CHANGEMAKERS: AFRICAN AMERICANS IN SAN FRANCISCO WHO MADE A DIFFERENCE

© 2020 First edition, second printing

University of San Francisco 2130 Fulton Street San Francisco, CA 94117

Published with the generous support of the Walter and Elise Haas Fund, Engage San Francisco, The Leo T. McCarthy Center for Public Service and the Common Good, The University of San Francisco College of Arts and Sciences, University of San Francisco Student Housing and Residential Education

The front cover features a 1992 portrait of Ella Hill Hutch, painted by Eugene E. White

The Inspiration Murals were painted in 1999 by Josef Norris, curated by Leonard ‘Lefty’ Gordon and Wendy Nelder, and supported by the San Francisco Arts Commission and the Mayor’s Offi ce Neighborhood Beautifi cation Project

Grateful acknowledgment is made to the many contributors who made this book possible. Please see the back pages for more acknowledgments.

The opinions expressed herein represent the voices of students at the University of San Francisco and do not necessarily refl ect the opinions of the University or our sponsors.

PRINTED IN THE OF AMERICA COMMUNITY CONSULTANTS

Altheda Kennedy Carrie Lynnette White Eugene E. White Brenda Harris

HISTORICAL CONSULTANT

Alfred W. Williams, President, African American Historical and Cultural Society

FACULTY ADVISORS

David Holler, Director, Martín-Baró Scholars Program Stephanie Sears, Director, Esther Madríz Diversity Scholars Program Rachel Brahinsky, Director, Urban and Public Aff airs Program

ENGAGE SAN FRANCISCO,

LEO T. McCARTHY CENTER FOR PUBLIC SERVICE AND THE COMMON GOOD

Karin Cotterman David Donahue Fernando Enciso-Márquez Leslie Lombre Star Moore Nolizwe Nondabula Andrea Wise GRADUATE RESEARCH ASSISTANTS Matthew Chiodo Zachary James Elijah Williams

UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH ASSISTANTS Ya’qub Elmi Marcelo Swoff ord Samantha Young

COPY EDITOR Jeannine Yeomans

ELLA HILL HUTCH COMMUNITY CENTER E’rika Chambers James Spingola Devi Zinzuvadia

ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT Zorrae Bowie Maj Jenkins Kresten Froistad–Martin Alicia Marshall Sarah Rewers Beth Gonzales Deja Gill Genevieve Chan ESTHER MADRÍZ DIVERSITY SCHOLARS AUTHORS (2015–2016)

Eduardo Alguera Alice Alvarez Draucillia Bala Nell Bayliss Cassandra Cassamajor Julio Ceja Guadalupe Garcia Taylor Hazley Anya Kishen Kiana Martinez Erica Mitchell Jazlynn Pastor Chiweta Uzoka Jack Weinrieb Stanley Whitaker ESTHER MADRÍZ DIVERSITY SCHOLARS AUTHORS (2016–2017)

Luigi Aieta Jahmil Brown Carlos Calles Heidi De La Cruz Velázquez Teresa Fishman Loven Florencio Ben Hamblin Dallas Hogue Jazelle Jajeh Chaniece Jeff erson Candice Matlock Justin Nkemere Anthony Norman Janelle Nunez Emmit Parubrub Sydney Summers–Knight Alec Taylor Kalin Venable MARTÍN-BARÓ SCHOLARS AUTHORS AND EDITORS (2016–2017)

Juliet Baires Kendra Bean DeJanelle Bovell Ashley Cruz Ian Duke Ya’qub Elmi Ceejay Garcia Betsy Jacobo Kimberly McAllister Daaniyal Mulyadi Sormeh Naderi Chase Nakayama Rosy Patel Licette Renteria Annelise Suleiman Vivian Talamantes Alvin Tran Megan Woods MARTÍN-BARÓ SCHOLARS AUTHORS AND EDITORS (2017–2018)

Jesse Cortes Zoe Foster Kallee Graham Meghan Grant Grace Jackson Evita Martinez Delaney Miller Madison Owens Althea Pyle Rachael Sandoval Hannah Shepherd Sage Stefanick Marcelo Swoff ord Sophia Tarantino Meisy Tunay Olivia Walker Kendra Wharton Kristen Williams MARTÍN-BARÓ SCHOLARS AUTHORS AND EDITORS (2018–2019)

Benjamin Elbaum Elaina Envia Emma Gaut Phia Rau Halleen Sayeh Jafari Mei Lin Beth Martens Savannah Miranda Kristin Pham Elinor K. Robbins Ethan Tan Isabel Tayag Jasmine Toyama Sawyer Wolf

CHANGEMAKERS

INTRODUCTION xv David Holler and Stephanie Sears IMAGES OF THE INSPIRATION MURALS xviii Murals by Josef Norris, photos by Joaquin Cabello

EDDIE ALLEY 2 Bassist VERNON ALLEY 4 Jazz Drummer JULE ANDERSON 6 of Education DR. ERNEST A. BATES 8 Neurologist REV. HAMILTON T. BOSWELL 10 Jones United Methodist Church REV. EDGAR BOYD 12 Pastor, Bethel AME Church REV. DR. AMOS C. BROWN 14 Third Baptist Church, President, NAACP THADDEUS BROWN 16 Tax Collector WILLIE L. BROWN 18 ALTHEDA KENNEDY CARRIE 20 Teacher, Administrator, SFUSD REVELS CAYTON 22 Deputy Mayor, Labor Leader BILL CHESTER 24 Labor Leader, Longshoremen’s Union DR. CAESAR CHURCHWELL 26 Dentist, African American Chamber of Commerce DR. WILLIAM COBB 28 First African American Principal, SFUSD JOSEPHINE COLE 30 First African American School Teacher, SFUSD LINDA DAVIS 32 Interim Superintendent, SFUSD JOHN DEARMAN 34 Judge BOB DEMMONS 36 Fire Chief, President, Black Firefi ghters Assoc. CLAUDE T. EVERHART 38 Deputy Mayor RICHARD FINIS 40 Police Offi cer THOMAS FLEMING 42 Journalist for The Sun–Reporter H. WELTON FLYNN 44 Accountant TERRY FRANCOIS 46 Attorney, SF Board of Supervisors DR. WAYLAND FULLER 48 Pharmacist ERNEST J. GAINES 50 Author ROTEA GILFORD 52 SF Police Department, Offi cers for Justice 54 Actor and Activist DR. CARLTON B. GOODLETT 56 Physician, Writer, and Publisher DR. ZURETTI GOOSBY 58 Dentist and SFUSD School Board Member LEONARD ‘LEFTY’ GORDON 60 Director, Ella Hill Hutch Community Center REV. ROLAND GORDON 62 Pastor and Founder, Thad Brown Boys Academy NAOMI GRAY 64 Community Activist BISHOP DONALD GREEN 66 San Francisco Christian Center BISHOP WILBUR HAMILTON 68 Bishop, SF Redevelopment Agency DR. NATHAN HARE 70 Professor, Psychologist, Founder of Black Studies CAPTAIN SYLVIA HARPER 72 First African American Female Captain, SFPD BRENDA HARRIS 74 Educator and State Department of Education LEOLA HAVARD 76 First Female African American Principal, SFUSD REV. FREDERICK DOUGLASS HAYNES, SR. 78 Third Baptist Church OLLIE AND WILLIE HECTOR 80 Successful Parents AILEEN CLARKE HERNANDEZ 82 President, National Organization for Women RICHARD HOLDER 84 First African American Deputy Chief, SFPD ELLA HILL HUTCH 86 SF Board of Supervisors, Labor Leader MATTIE JACKSON 88 Labor Leader GERALDINE JOHNSON 90 Coalition of Black Trade Unions REV. CALVIN JONES, JR. 92 Pastor, Providence Baptist Church REV. CALVIN JONES, SR. 94 Pastor, Providence Baptist Church LOUISE JONES 96 Principal, Deputy Superintendent of SFUSD FRED JORDAN 98 Engineer and Philanthropist SAM JORDAN 100 Entrepreneur JOSEPH GAMBLE KENNEDY 102 Judge WILLIE B. KENNEDY 104 BART and SF Board of Supervisors LEROY 106 Union Leader, Commissioner SF Redevelopment DR. WILLIS KIRK 108 President of San Francisco Community College DONNETER LANE 110 Educator and Community Activist ORELIA LANGSTON 112 Administrator and Community Activist ORVILLE LUSTER 114 Executive Director, Youth for Service RUTH MALOOF 116 Mother of Six, SFUSD Volunteer DR. JOE MARSHALL 118 Founder of Omega Boys Club LARRY MARTIN 120 Vice President of Transportation Workers Union MARY S. MARTIN 122 Founder, S.R. Martin College Preparatory School NATHANIEL MASON, JR. 124 Community Activist, NAACP JOHNNY MATHIS 126 Entertainer 128 ENOLA MAXWELL 130 Founder of Neighborhood House REV. JAMES MCCRAY 132 Jones Memorial United Methodist Church LULANN McGRIFF 134 Community Leader, NAACP ISIAH NELSON, III 136 First African American Commander, SFPD EVA PATERSON 138 Attorney and Founder of Equal Justice Society LES PAYNE 140 Youth Authority DR. WILLIAM PIERCE 142 Clinical Psychologist ALEX PITCHER 144 NAACP President, Community Leader CECIL F. POOLE 146 Judge and US Attorney WILL HENRY RENO 148 Businessman and Community Activist MARY HELEN ROGERS 150 Community Advocate PRENTICE E. SANDERS 152 Deputy Chief of Police, SFPD THOMATRA SCOTT 154 Community Advocate JOSEPH ‘BUNNY’ SIMON 156 Entrepreneur THELMA AND BENJAMIN SMITH 158 Parents of Nine PHIL SMITH 160 NBA () and USF Dons REUBEN SMITH 162 Hunters Point Boys and Girls Club RUDY SMITH 164 Probation Services JAMES E. STRATTEN 166 SF Board of Supervisors JAMES THIGPEN 168 Entrepreneur DR. SHIRLEY THORNTON 170 Deputy Superintendent; State Dept. of Education BURL A. TOLER 172 National Football League Offi cial and Educator REV. ARELIOUS WALKER 174 Pastor, True Hope Church of God in Christ DORIS WARD 176 Assessor and SF Board of Supervisors ELOISE WESTBROOK 178 Community Advocate EARL WHITE 180 Entrepreneur EUGENE E. WHITE 182 Artist REV. CECIL WILLIAMS 184 Pastor, Glide Church LIEUTENANT HENRY WILLIAMS 186 SF Police Department, Offi cers for Justice LT. COL. THEODORE A. WILSON 188 Tuskegee Airman, US Air Force

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS 190 INTRODUCTION

HIS BOOK, written entirely by students at the University of San Francisco, seeks to inclusively celebrate Tblack excellence and to honor the legacies of the 96 inspiring people whose images appear on the murals of the Ella Hill Hutch Community Center in the heart of the Addition in San Francisco. Commissioned in 1999 by Supervisors Leonard “Lefty” Gordon and Wendy Nelder in conjunction with the San Francisco Arts Commission, the Inspiration Murals, painted by Anthony Josef Norris, consist of fi ve panels depicting San Francisco-based African Americans who made a diff erence. The people represented on the walls include educators, community activists, politicians, sports fi gures, pastors, doctors, entertainers, artists, parents, and more—highlighting the key roles African Americans from all walks of life have played in the development and betterment of life in San Francisco. As students worked on these biographies, they rapidly realized that each and every person depicted on the murals absolutely deserves her or his own entire book. Students also realized that we can only hope to off er here a glimpse into the triumphs and struggles of people who helped make San Francisco a better, more inclusive place. As Historian Gerald D. Nash wrote: “the story of black Americans . . . still needs to be told” (qtd. in Broussard). We could not agree more. Given the decreasing numbers of African Americans living in San Francisco and the increasing gentrifi cation of historically African American communities, preserving this history has become increasingly important. It is our hope that this work will in some way spark interest not just in preserving the Inspiration Murals, but also in generating new murals that honor people who are currently working to make San Francisco a place where equality and social justice will thrive. To be clear, we tend to view social justice at the University of San Francisco as both a process and a goal. Everyone who worked on this book has felt not just the importance of recognizing and celebrating the African American leaders of our city’s past, we also felt compelled to address “the fi erce urgency of now,” as Dr. King famously declared in 1967. As we consider the tides and undercurrents at work in the United States in 2019, we are as heartened by certain positive changes in San Francisco as we are dismayed by cer- tain national trends. But we who’ve worked on this project would like to hold up what we’ve learned as an example of the incredible spirit of progress in this city—particularly during diffi cult times. The incredible lives of the people in this book, by their example and accomplishments, speak volumes. We hope this one volume will be just the beginning of others.

xv Some Back Story About How This Book Was Created . . . and Effusive Praise for Its Supporters

Conversations about this project began in 2015 when University of San Francisco alumna and educator Brenda Harris approached Karin Cotterman of the Leo T. McCarthy Center for Public Service and the Common Good and Engage San Francisco with a big idea—what if we could inspire USF students working in community-engaged classes to collect all the stories of those community members represented on the Inspiration murals? To achieve this goal, folks at USF, including Andrea Wise and Star Moore, began col- laborating with long-time Western Addition community activists Altheda Kennedy Carrie, Lynnette White, and Eugene E. White. Giving generously of their time on numerous occasions, these community leaders came into classrooms and met students in the Western Addition to inspire—and indeed inform—students about the troubled . In 2015–16, a living-learning community of students at USF, the Esther Madríz Diversity Scholars pro- gram, led by Sociology Professor Stephanie Sears, took up this research as part of their community-engaged learning project for the year. Over the course of the academic year, the students researched and worked on roughly a third of the biographies, also conducting many interviews with the folks you’ll fi nd in this book. In 2016–17, a second cohort of the Esther Madríz Scholars contributed their biographies as well. (You’ll fi nd all the names of these thirty-three students proudly displayed on our title pages.) Also starting in 2016, a second living-learning community, the Martín-Baró Scholars joined the project. The Martín-Baró Scholars, led by Professor David Holler, continued to research and work on the layouts that make up this book through 2019. (All in all, fi fty students in this program are also listed on our title pages.) We also invited several research assistants to help work on this book as well: Samantha Young, who re- ally got us started, Ya’qub Elmi, who also did excellent work in the classroom, and Marcelo Swoff ord, who did outstanding work in many regards. Finally, thanks to a generous grant from the College of Arts and Sciences Dean Marcelo Camperi and the guidance of Professor Rachel Brahinsky, we were able to invite three graduate students from our Masters in Urban and Public Aff airs Program to help out: Matt Chiodo, Zachary James, and Elijah Williams, all bringing their alacrity, energy, and research skills to the project. We also connected with the good people of the San Francisco Public Library, particularly City Archivist Susan Goldstein, who helped our classes fi nd material that was not available online. Other librarians at the History Center aided us immensely as we searched through faded clippings, microfi lm, and photographs. We are truly grateful for their help. We are particularly indebted to Tom Carey, Katherine Ets–Hokin, An- drea Grimes, Christina Moretta, Yael Schwartz, Tami Suzuki, Jeff Thomas, and others at SFPL. We also owe profound thanks to Alfred W. Williams, President of the African American Historical and Cultural Society, for reviewing all of the biographies before we went to press. He off ered valuable sugges-

xvi tions which we will also take to heart as we prepare an online companion to this print volume. As we neared completion of this book, we were grateful for the advice and counsel of Wendy Nelder, former President of the Board of Supervisors, and one of the driving forces behind the creation of the Inspiration Murals. All told, it took 87 students and many semesters’ work to arrive at this book, but all of the contributors, editors, and supporters bear in mind that this eff ort pales in comparison to the monumental achievements of the people featured in the murals and in these pages. We are more than grateful for the logistical support of Karin Cotterman of Engage San Francisco, as well as Leslie Lombre, David Donahue, Andrea Wise, Nolizwe Nondabula, Star Moore, and Fernando En- ciso-Márquez of the Leo T. McCarthy Center for Public Service and the Common Good for their generous support in innumerable ways. This project simply would not exist without their guidance. In addition to the many ways they supported this project, these folks also very kindly connected us with the Walter and Elise Haas Fund, without whose generosity, this book could not have been printed, and the events associated with this work could not have the public reach we aimed for. To the Walter and Elise Haas Fund in particular we are enormously grateful. We are also extremely grateful for the professional pro bono copyediting provided by veteran journalist Jeannine Yeomans, who took on a capacious binder full of biographies in spring 2019 to edit with her eyes. Also, as part of our eff orts to preserve the images of the murals on the following pages, we are indebted to artist Josef Norris, whose original works remain the inspiration for this book. The book cover, you surely noticed, features a simply stunning portrait of Ella Hill Hutch, painted by Eugene E. White in 1992. We could not be more grateful to Eugene and Lynnette White for granting us permission to use this image to grace our cover. Very sadly to all who were involved in this project, we lost Mr. Eugene E. White just months before the release of this book. We humbly dedicate our work to him, to his life partner and huge supporter of this project Mrs. Lynnette White, to Mrs. Altheda Carrie who lent so many hours of counsel to our students, and to Dr. Brenda Harris, who helped start so many people on this amazing journey. We know, too, there are many tough journeys yet ahead, but we hope you will fi nd some hope and examples of courage, fortitude, and triumph over tough odds in the pages that follow.

—David Holler and Stephanie Sears, University of San Francisco, 2019

Works Cited

Broussard, Albert. Black San Francisco: The Struggle for Racial Equality in the West, 1900–1954. University Press of Kansas. 1993. Ness, Carol. “Faces of Black Success.” SFGate. 6 July 1999.

xvii Images from the Inspiration Murals

The Inspiration Murals were painted in 1999 by Josef Norris. His work, featured on fi ve exterior walls of the Ella Hill Hutch Community Center, was part of the Neighborhood Beautifi cation Project. Leonard ‘Lefty’ Gordon and Wendy Nelder selected the many individuals featured on the murals and secured a grant from the San Francisco Arts Commission to complete the work. Photos by Joaquin Cabello.

xviii xix xx xxi xxii Changemakers is dedicated to Altheda Kennedy Carrie, Lynnette White, Eugene E. White, and Brenda Harris, community activists who helped usher this book into existence in innumerable ways.

We off er a special dedication to Leonard “Lefty” Gordon whose work inspired the Western Addition community, and whose idea inspired the murals

LEONARD “LEFTY” GORDON

CHANGEMAKERS EDDIE MG OREYO FGATE SF OF COURTESY IMAGE ALLEY

DWARD HENRY ALLEY, JR., known as Eddie Al- Eley, was one of ’s leading drummers for decades. Alongside his brother, Ver- non Alley, who was an equally celebrated bassist, Eddie Alley’s musical prowess helped break barriers between white and black audiences. Alley is one of the many changemakers on the walls of the Ella Hill Hutch Community Center because of his great im- Jazz drummer Eddie Alley in 2005. pact on the Fillmore community in San Francisco. Named after his father, Eddie Alley, Jr., was born on December 19, 1910, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. entered a competition for hopeful young drum- During his childhood, he was forced to move multi- mers to win free lessons on how to properly play ple times as his father searched for a well-paying job the drums. Despite never having formal experi- to sustain their family. They fi rst moved from Min- ence, Alley won. Unfortunately, as Alley got older, nesota to Illinois, then to , and fi nally, when he had to forgo his lessons to work to help support Eddie was 13, they settled in San Francisco. Upon his family. their arrival, the Alleys fi rst lived in the Potrero Hill Alley has often credited his love for music to District before moving to the Fillmore. the times he saw musicians like The schools in the Fillmore were drastically dif- at the Prince and Orpheum Theaters. When Al- ferent from the ones that Eddie attended back east, ley graduated from high school, he started work- which were predominantly white. After graduating ing at Topsy’s Roost, where he played his drums high school in December of 1929, Alley had planned to accompany phonograph records until the main to attend college but was unable to go because the band would play. Once onstage, he would cater separation of his parents caused him to have to work to the needs of each of the bands he played with to help his family during the Great Depression. and sometimes they would even invite him to sing From a young age, Alley had been fascinated with them on stage. Eddie’s fi rst goal as a musician by the drums. At Daniel Webster Elementary, he was to play at Topsy’s Roost. In order to do this,

2 CHANGEMAKERS he needed to join the musicians’ union, which re- straight to the vice president of the company and quired him to take an exam. He passed the exam insisted upon being promoted. Alley went on to rise and started playing at Club Alabam on Post Street through the ranks of the insurance company for and also began to play at independently contracted decades. parties. When he played at the club, he would be Alley also continued to play gigs on weekends compensated with three dollars and a hot meal. Al- for decades and even became a promoter of nu- ley later formed his own band, Eddie Alley and his merous big name entertainers. He retired from Gentlemen of Rhythm and they began playing at Met Life in the , but played his last musical clubs all over San Francisco. show when he was 90 years old. At the famous jazz club, Alley played Alley died on November 3, 2005, due to respi- alongside Johnny Mathis, who also grew up in the ratory and liver failure but his legacy continues to Fillmore District before becoming an international live on. He broke down racial barriers in the world star singer. Alley was proud of the progress Mathis of music and was a trailblazer for those who fol- had made and reminisced about the days when they lowed him. Eddie Alley was a man who overcame sang together: “We were poor, so any one who lived adversity to carve out a place for himself among behind us was really poor! . . . But when he was fi rst the great musicians of the Fillmore. It was impos- getting started, he sang with me a few times.” Lat- sible to deny his talent, charisma, and dedication. er, he was given the opportunity to work for Billie Eddie Alley’s work as a drummer is only a small Holiday and perform for President John F. Kenne- part of his expansive legacy. dy. When it came to Alley’s music, the barrier of race did not deter him; he played in both white and —Rosy Patel, Evita Martinez, and Jesse Cortes black clubs and was the fi rst black performer to go on the stage of the Fillmore Auditorium. Works Cited In the middle of his musical career, Alley real- Rowe, Monk. “Eddie Alley.” Jazz Archive Interviews, ized that working as a musician was not a practical Fillius Jazz Archive, 8 Aug. 2002. job for maintaining a steady income. He had a fam- Selvin, Joel. “Eddie Alley—Drummer Led Bands in ily and four kids to take care of and a home to pay Fillmore” SFGate, 5 Nov. 2005. for so Alley seized an opportunity to work for the Pepin, Elizabeth, and Lewis Watts. Harlem of the West: Metropolitan Life Insurance Company (MetLife). The San Francisco Fillmore Jazz Era. Aina A Me Kai. During the 1940s, the insurance company would On The Water Front, 2005. only hire blacks if they worked in the kitchen or as Warr, Jesse. “Edward Alley: Oral History Project.” an elevator operator. Alley was given an elevator San Francisco Public Library, 19 Sept. 1978. operator uniform and was told that he would never be promoted. In 1947, he was the fi rst black person to be promoted clerk at the company after he went

3 IMAGE

VERNON COURTESY

OF

KATY

ALLEY RADDATZ / SF

CHRONICLE

HE CITY OF SAN FRANCISCO, when compared to / Tplaces like or , off ered POLARIS limited musical opportunities for African Ameri- can big-band bassists during the . However, Vernon Alley wouldn’t have wanted to play any- Vernon Alley (1915–2004) was a celebrated jazz bassist. where else. “Where else is there?” Alley asserted. Although he was born in Winnemucca, Nevada, in his career, Alley played with Saunders King, the on May 26, 1915, Alley felt like San Francisco was band, and , to name a his home, expressing, “All I remember is San Fran- few. During his time with the Lionel Hampton band cisco. I’ve lived here all my life.” in 1940, Alley explored the electric bass, an extraor- Vernon Alley and his brother Eddie, a distin- dinary sound not yet familiar to many. Having come guished drummer in the San Francisco music scene, from a musical family, it was only natural for him to came from humble beginnings, both bussing tables at start a band of his own, The Alley Trio was com- Topsy’s Roost. Alley soon became a star high school posed of Jerome “Jerry” Richardson, who played football player. In his senior year, he was recruited by clarinet, alto saxophone, and fl ute, Bob Skinner, numerous prestigious colleges and universities, but who played , and Alley on bass. As his career chose instead to attend Sacramento Junior College, advanced, Alley performed with well-known vocal- spending his time there as a music major playing the ists like and . He also clarinet, , and football. After training at played with and was inspired by other stars such as Camp Robert Smalls, Alley enlisted in the Navy in Duke Ellington, Erroll Garner, , Diz- 1942 and was assigned as a musician to St. Mary’s zy Gillespie, and . A star in his own Prefl ight School during World War II. right, Vernon Alley had his own show, “Down Ver- Upon his discharge Alley found an opportunity non’s Alley,” and also appeared on “Nipper’s Song to pursue his passion for playing bass by joining Wes Shop” and The Merv Griffi n Show. He was also the Peoples’ Band. The band had been known to fi ght musical director of the Blackhawk jazz club. Alley color standards in the city by playing in areas where appeared in “Reveille with Beverly” in 1943 along- black people were not welcomed at the time. Early side other great musicians of the time. In the latter

4 CHANGEMAKERS part of his career, he joined the Musicians Local 6 background man who earned his own spot at the union as a board member and became one of the forefront of the music industry. fi rst black members of the Bohemian Club, which The San Francisco Jazz Festival honored his was reserved for infl uential journalists, artists, musi- success by creating a well-attended tribute called cians, and politicians. “The Legacy of Vernon Alley.” Indeed, Alley’s ded- In 1993, Vernon Alley was voted into the San ication to San Francisco as a musician and activist Francisco Prep Hall of Fame. In 2002, he received exemplifi es what a Changemaker is. Alley combated the presidential medal from San Francisco State with persistence and commitment to art as a University, where he graduated in 1940 and contin- prevailing vehicle for change. Beyond his love for the ued to perform at alumni events. Vernon continued city of San Francisco, his love for the people of San to be a devout public servant, joining the San Fran- Francisco triumphed. Alley recalled, “Oh, if cisco Arts Commission. The city of San Francisco I had really wanted to be a big man, I guess I would commemorated his infl uence by naming an alley have gone to New York or Los Angeles. But I was between two buildings on Brannan Street “Vernon never inspired to do that. I’ve always liked to be able Alley.” Alley’s musical prowess was acknowledged by to go down the street and say hello to people.” the Human Rights Commission, who recruited him not only to be a member, but to also serve as Musical —Kimberly McAllister, Zoe Foster, and Jesse Cortes Director for “Evolution of .” As a member of the Human Rights Commission, Alley passionately Works Cited fought for civil liberties and advocated against police Chadbourne, Eugene. “Vernon Alley.” AllMusic, 2017. discrimination. De Roos, Bob. “Biography for Breakfast.” SF Despite being an icon of success, Alley had to Chronicle. 25 July 1950. fi ght discrimination all his life. In an interview with Green, Blake, “That Swinging Alley Cat,” SF Chronicle. Blake Green, Alley remarked, “People think that 9 1976. since I’m from San Francisco and a musician, I “ ‘I Am American Day’ Features Jazz Group,” SF didn’t see any discrimination.” Nevertheless, Alley Chronicle. 9 Sept 1955. succeeded in spite of the racism and discrimination “Jazz Legend Vernon Alley to Receive Presidential that he faced. His musical fi nesse is attributed to his Medal.” SFSU. 6 May 2002. persistence and determination, traits that cannot be Pepin, Elizabeth and Lewis Watts. Harlem of the West. undermined by his pure talent alone. Alley’s musi- Selvin, Joel, and Peter Fimrite. “Vernon Alley, 1915–2004.” SFGate, 5 Oct. 2004. cal legacy is that of an inventor and revolutionary. Vacher, Peter. “Obituary: Vernon Alley.” He pioneered the melodious, rather than rhythmic The Guardian. 17 Nov. 2004. style of bass playing and he brought what’s often considered a background instrument front and cen- ter. Vernon Alley’s music exemplifi es his journey, a

5 JULE IMAGE

ANDERSON COURTESY

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EBONY

MAGAZINE DUCATION IS A FORMIDABLE FORCE for refor- Emation and change, and Ms. Jule Anderson, a board member of the San Francisco Unifi ed School District from 1978–1982, represented that ideal. She fought to make San Francisco schools more inclusive and equitable. Her leadership and Jule Anderson in May 1982. strength during an era of heightened racial ten- sions continues to serve as a model for educators United States had been a hotbed for racial tension. today. The 1970s were an era of continued racial struggle Jule Anderson brought a lifetime of civic ac- and the SFUSD was the subject of two important tivism to the SFUSD during a time of incredible legal decisions. change. Anderson was born in Vicksburg, Missis- First, in the 1971 case Johnson v. San Francisco sippi, at the height of Jim Crow. As a young wom- Unifi ed School District, the Ninth District Federal Cir- an she ventured west, enrolling in and graduating cuit Court found that school district offi cials were from San Francisco State University with a bache- still using school attendance boundary lines to seg- lor of arts degree in Economics. She later received regate not only black students but those of Chinese her masters of public administration degree from ancestry and other minorities as well. The practice Golden Gate University. Before her appointment was already found to be discriminatory and uncon- to the SFUSD, she worked as the Director of Spe- stitutional in 1954 in the landmark Brown v. Board of cial Programs for Disabled Students and Women Education case. The Court decreed that the school at the Contra Costa Community College in San district was required to institute a busing system to Pablo. Her passion for special education programs address racial disparities within the city. emerged, in part, because she had a special needs Second, in the 1974 case Lau v. Nichols, the child with her husband. United States Supreme Court approved the issue Anderson was involved with San Francisco of a consent decree against San Francisco Unifi ed educational politics during an era of increased tu- School District. The court found SFUSD wasn’t of- mult. During the 1950s and 1960s, schools in the fering adequate supplemental language instruction

6 CHANGEMAKERS to students with limited English profi ciency, which trict would pay for the busing of students into new was a legal violation of the 1964 Civil Rights Act. schools to meet the integration requirements, par- The consent decree mandated the creation of En- ticularly within the Bayview, along with new courses glish language learning programs along with bilin- designed for integrating bilingual speaking students gual courses for public school students. into school curriculum. Programs were also created San Francisco Unifi ed School District had still to cater to the unique challenges of special needs been procedurally obligated to fulfi ll both the 1971 students. Anderson lent her experience and exper- busing decree and the 1974 bilingual language tise to the redesign, with particular sensitivity to- consent decree during Anderson’s appointment wards special-needs students. to the board by Mayor in 1978. Anderson dutifully served the SFUSD until She sat on the community relations and integration 1981, when she decided not to run for reelection. committee, the curriculum and instructional sup- Instead, Anderson went on to sit on the Board of the port committee, and the personnel and evaluation California Alliance of Black School Educators, Aid committee. The fi rst two committees were tasked to Retarded Children (as it was then known), and with creating the framework for legal compliance. the San Francisco African American Historical and As a result, SFUSD published the Educational Re- Cultural Society. Although Jule Anderson has left design and Implementation Plan later that year. San Francisco for , where she now resides, Mrs. Anderson would reaffi rm her commit- she left a positive legacy for students of the SFUSD ment to ensuring positive learning outcomes to and indeed for all citizens of San Francisco. black students. She sponsored a resolution for stu- dent athletes to maintain a C grade average in order to participate in athletics. When she was interviewed — Chiweta Uzoka, Jesse Cortes, Meghan Grant, by Dan Borush for The Progress newspaper, she cited Zoe Foster, and Marcelo Swoff ord “exploitation in permitting youngsters to spend an excessive amount of time in practice or playing a Works Cited varsity sport and little time doing anything academ- ically” as the reason for her support. Borush, Dan. “Interview with Jule Anderson.” The Progress. 1978. Jule Anderson’s activist approach towards spe- Johnson v. San Francisco Unifi ed School District. 500 F. 2d cial needs programs was key to addressing the 349. United States Court of Appeals, Ninth changes SFUSD needed to implement. The Educa- Circuit. 21 June 1974. tional Redesign and Implementation Plan identifi ed Lau v. Nichols. 414 U.S. 563. Supreme Court of the three signifi cant shifts in school policy. First, a policy United States. 21 Jan. 1974. of integration, mandating “each regular school shall McCormick, Erin. “Census shows black population have no more than 45 percent of a single racial or plummeting in last decade in S.F.” SF Chronicle. ethnic group in pupil population.” The school dis- 17 June 2001.

7

DR. ERNEST

I AECUTS O COURTESY MAGE

A. BATES

UN F VRIYO IVERSITY

R. ERNEST A. BATES is a neurosurgeon, vet- Deran, philanthropist, father, and role model. ROCHESTER F Now in his 80s, he currently resides in San Fran- cisco, and continues to practice as a neurosur- geon. Best known for his involvement in the health fi eld, he is also the CEO, founder, and chairman of American Shared Hospital Services. His other executive roles include acting as chairman of GK Financing, LLC, and founder of the winery Black Dr. Ernest A. Bates in 2012. Coyote Chateau, LLC. Dr. Ernest Bates grew up in Mount Pleasant, New York. While living there, he separated him- Air Force, fi ghting in the . Conclud- self from the crowd early on with his education. ing his education in 1971, Dr. Bates completed his Fighting continuous discrimination, he obtained a neurosurgery residency at the University of Cali- bachelor’s degree from Johns Hopkins University fornia, San Francisco Medical Center, thus mak- in 1958, which made him the fi rst African Amer- ing him one of the fi rst of three African American ican to graduate from the Zanvyl Krieger School board-certifi ed neurosurgeons. Dr. Bates has been of Arts and Sciences. Shortly thereafter, in 1962, an outstanding leadership role model because of Bates received his second degree from the Univer- his commitment to his country and to education. sity of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentist- Throughout his career, Dr. Bates has been a ry, one of the top 40 medical schools in the United member of various professional organizations and States. With two degrees under his belt, Bates com- has held many leadership positions on the corpo- pleted a transitional year-long internship at Albert rate boards of directors. In 1983 his career con- Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx Municipal tinued to fl ourish after founding the American Hospital Center in New York. Shared Hospital Services, a public healthcare LLC In addition to his rigorous training in the med- that provides cutting-edge medical equipment and ical fi eld, he served three years in the United States innovative technology to South America, North

8 CHANGEMAKERS Dr. Ernest A. Bates is a fi rst African American vintners by founding The Black Coyote, a winery in Napa Valley. neurosurgeon, a veteran, As a philanthropist, he has created the Ernest Bates Foundation, a family owned organization a philanthropist, and an providing grants and scholarships to other non- entrepreneur. profi ts whose main focus is on healthcare and in- creasing African American and Latino education. In addition to founding the private nonprofi t, he is America, and parts of Eastern Europe. He has a Charter Member of the George Eastman Circle, served on the , San Fran- an annual giving society. cisco School of Nursing Board of Overseers as well Dr. Bates has been a pioneer and visionary in as the Board of Governors for the California Com- neurosurgery, higher learning, and the wine in- munity Colleges. dustry, paving the way for others to follow in his Dr. Bates has also earned numerous distinctions footsteps. He has fought to obtain higher educa- and honors and also serves on the boards for many tion as a young adult, has fought for his country, prestigious organizations. In 2003, Dr. Bates was and has off ered himself tirelessly to his community. honored with the Heritage Award, granting him Dr. Bates stands as an excellent role model for peo- trustee emeritus status at Johns Hopkins University. ple of all backgrounds, proving that achievement In 2005, he was elected to the California Commis- comes through grit and consistency. sion for Jobs and Economic Growth. As an active leader, he spent two decades as a trustee for the — Alec Taylor Pierce and Althea Pyle University of Rochester. He is also a cabinet mem- ber of The Meliora Challenge: The Campaign of the University of Rochester. He is a School of Med- Works Cited icine and Dentistry National Council member, and “Dr. Ernest Bates.” US News & World Report, 2017. also the Capital Campaign Chairman and board “Catherine Waters Selected as Sally Bates Endowed member of the Museum of African Diaspora in Chair.” UCSF School of Nursing, University San Francisco. He also serves as a board member Regents, 2016. of the Center for FasterCures–Milken Institute, as “Executive Offi cers.” American Shared Hospital a member of the Brookings Institution, as a San Services, American Shared Hospital Services. 2010. Francisco Bay Regional Cabinet member, and as a “American Shared Hospital Ser (AMS:NYSE Amex).” member of the Board of Directors of the Salzburg Bloomberg. 2017. Global Seminar. Not to mention his service on the board of Copia, the American Center for Wine, Food, and the Arts. Dr. Bates became one of the

9 REV. HAMILTON IMAGE

T. BOSWELL COURTESY

OF

SF

GATE EVEREND HAMILTON T. BOSWELL’S involve- Rment in social activism, government, and the church sparked change in the Fillmore District of San Francisco. His eff orts in founding several piv- otal organizations were crucial for the growth and Reverend T. Hamilton Boswell in 2007. progress of his community, earning him a tribute on the Ella Hill Hutch Community Center mural. In 1914, Hamilton Boswell was born in Dallas, . His parents were Warren Boswell, an educa- After he received his doctorate, he began serv- tor and violinist, and Grace Boswell, a social work- ing at St. John’s Methodist Church and Bowen er and concert pianist. In 1920, his family moved Memorial Methodist Church in . He to Los Angeles, where he completed high school. then moved to San Francisco, where he began to Boswell then attended Wiley College in Texas serve at Jones Memorial United Methodist Church where he pledged the fraternity, for the next three decades. dedicated to developing leaders and promoting ad- When Boswell moved to the Fillmore District, vocacy for communities. (This fraternity later hon- he became interested in the Fillmore’s oppres- ored him with the Award of Merit for his 72 years sive and illegal redlining practices, where realtors of service to the organization.) would outline in red pen designated areas in which In 1939 Boswell married Eleanor Gragg, and people of color were allowed to live. In order to they remained together for 68 years. After World combat this issue, he founded the Jones Methodist War II, Boswell’s family relocated from Texas to Credit Union. This allowed for African Americans San Francisco. Upon earning his undergraduate to borrow money in order to purchase homes in degree from Wiley College, he moved to Los An- redlined communities. This credit union now has geles to earn his master’s and doctoral degrees in assets valued at over hundreds of thousands of theology at the University of Southern California. dollars and is able to give back to the low-income

10 CHANGEMAKERS Rev. Hamilton T. Boswell fought of the California State Assembly, a position that he held for a decade. Boswell was also chairman of the for more equitable housing in San Francisco Conference of Religion and Race San Francisco. and the co-chair of the Church Labor Conference, which rallied city support for Martin Luther King, Jr., and his eff orts in the . Rev- communities of San Francisco. erend Boswell was awarded the Freedom Award by Reverend Boswell also created the Jones Me- the NAACP in both 1972 and 1974. He was also morial Homes, which allows senior citizens to have awarded the Civic Award of the Silver Spur by the homes that enable healthy lifestyle choices and ac- non-profi t organization SPUR ( tive participation in their communities. The Jones Area Planning and Urban Research Association) Memorial Homes Project, with 186 units, was the for his social activism in housing. fi rst federally fi nanced senior citizen housing pro- Having been raised in a household that valued gram in San Francisco. education and social work, Reverend Boswell was Though Reverend Boswell was signifi cantly able to create connections with his church mem- involved in the church, he was also active in lo- bers on a personal level. His mentorship played cal government. It was through the church that an essential role in his helping to build a stronger Reverend Boswell met future San Francisco May- community. By using his motivation, ministry, and or Willie Brown and became one of his mentors. passion to serve those in need, Boswell inspired Af- Reverend Boswell happened to hire Brown to work rican American members of the Fillmore to follow for the church doing janitorial duties when he was suit and reach great heights. Boswell died at the age a teenager. Boswell’s infl uence was clearly seen of 92 in Pinole, California, but his legacy lives on. throughout Willie Brown’s life, both politically and spiritually. —Kristen Williams and Lupita Garcia In 1963, Boswell served on the city’s Juvenile Works Cited Justice Commission where he ensured that incar- cerated minors were given their lawful rights and Alpha Phi Alpha. 2015. humane treatment. Soon afterwards, he became Danesi, Natalia. “Hamilton Boswell.” Find A Grave the Chairman of the Housing Authority Com- Memorials. 8 Dec. 2008 mission from 1964–1974, whose mission was “to “The Jones History.” Jones Memorial United deliver safe and decent housing for low-income Methodist Church.” 2018. households and integrate economic opportunity Juvenile Justice Commission. 2015. for residents” (Housing Authority Commission). Knight, Heather. “Rev. Hamilton T. Boswell—Led S.F. After deciding to go into retirement, Willie Blacks.” SF Chronicle, 11 May 2007. Brown selected Rev. Boswell to serve as Chaplain

11

REV.

I

MAGE

J. EDGAR COURTESY

O

F

BOYD JOSEF

N

ORR I ASTOR J. EDGAR BOYD has committed his life to S Pserving two purposes: his community and God. Rev. Boyd as pictured on the Inspiration Mural. Pastor Boyd was born on December 7, 1947, in the state of Florida. His parents, H. Waymon and Alice Northwest. While working at Walker Chapel AME M. Swails Boyd, had eight children, including Ed- Church, he enrolled at Western Uni- gar. Growing up, his family and friends called him versity in Bellingham, Washington, where he grad- Jerry. The name stuck enough for him to add the ini- uated with a degree in Community Development tial “J” to his name in recognition of his upbringing. 1979. He would go on to earn his Masters in Di- Before dedicating himself to a life of spiritual vinity degree from the University of Dubuque devotion, J. Edgar enlisted in the US Army during Theological Seminary. the Vietnam War. He was honorably discharged in Pastor Boyd made the move to California in 1970 following his dedicated service to the coun- 1982 where he was appointed the pastor of Brook- try. Upon his return from Vietnam, Boyd decided ins AME Church in . His sermons roused to commit himself to his faith. Starting in 1971, members of the congregation both young and old. Boyd began working within his local ministry. He His talents as an orator and organizer were among found his niche as he preached within the network his strongest assets. These talents didn’t go unno- of African Methodist Episcopal churches (AME). ticed as they caught the attention of the Bethel His fi rst pastoral assignment was at St. John’s AME AME Church in Los Angeles. He took his talents Church in Pueblo, Colorado. He would inspire to Los Angeles, becoming pastor in 1986. his congregation in Pueblo for two years, before He moved to Los Angeles during an era of ra- venturing to Casper, Wyoming, where he led the cial tensions and emotional volatility, exemplifi ed by Grace AME Church as pastor. the of Latasha Harlins in 1991. Rev. Boyd, Boyd’s curiosity became a driving force in the along with the President of Brotherhood Crusade, development of his faith, eventually becoming inter- Danny Bakewell, held a town-hall meeting immedi- ested in the intersection between faith and commu- ately following the shooting. Pastor Boyd advocated nity. He moved from Casper to in the Pacifi c for social change through the election of more black

12 CHANGEMAKERS political leaders, and the continued development of tality within underserved communities.” economic opportunities for black communities. The TCDC had strong support from then Pastor Boyd was involved in similar organiza- Mayor Willie Brown, who appointed Boyd to the tional eff orts after the beating of Rodney King by San Francisco Housing Authority as an attempt to LA police offi cers. When interviewed by the Los An- streamline new housing development. Their eff orts geles Times following the Watts riots, Boyd criticized resulted in the construction of 250 units of aff ord- the lack of resources being devoted to black com- able housing. munities in Los Angeles. In the interview the good In 2012, Pastor Boyd decided to move back pastor stated “economic deprivations in some neigh- down to Los Angeles to serve as the senior pastor borhoods was just a powder keg ready to blow.” for the First African Methodist Episcopal Church. Following the turmoil of 1992 in Los Angeles, While in Los Angeles, the Pastor has become an Pastor Boyd moved back to the Bay Area where outspoken critic of President Donald . He he began preaching at the historic Bethel AME continues to fi ght against injustice and advocate for Church in San Francisco. Pastor Boyd quickly be- community development. He is happily married came a valued member of the community, com- Oakland native Florence Miles–Boyd. bining his prolifi c sermons with focused fundrais- ing eff orts and community development initiatives. —Matthew Chiodo, Jesse Cortes, and Ethan Tan When Pastor Boyd fi rst started working at Beth- el AME San Francisco, he started fundraising with Works Cited specifi c projects in mind, particularly increasing digital literacy among seniors, the Bethel Commu- “Pastor J. Edgar Boyd Biography.” First AME Church of Los Angeles. 2018. nity Technology Center. By the end of his tenure “First AME church shows appreciation to Rev. and in 2012, Pastor Boyd increased the assets from $12 Mrs. ‘J’ Edgar Boyd.” OurWeekly Los Angeles. 27 Nov. 2014. million to $85 million. Katz, Jesse and Stephanie Chavez. “Blacks Seek to Channel Pastor Boyd will be remembered most for his Anger Over Sentence” , 17 Nov. 1991. Wildermuth, John. “Black congregations walk to City successful eff orts to build units of aff ordable hous- Hall to vote.” SFGate, 3 Nov. 2008. ing in the Western Addition. Starting in 2001, Boyd McCray, James, “Tabernacle Statement of Introduc- along with other notable members of the San Fran- tion.” Faith Institutions Fostering Economic Stability. cisco black community began working on the newly Ford, Andrea and Lisa R. Omphroy.“Churches Off er incorporated Tabernacle Community Development Sanctuary From Strife-Torn City.” Los Angeles Times, 3 May, 1992. Corporation (TCDC). The stated mission of the Ford, Dave. “Helping home buyers get a foot in the TCDC was “to stimulate growth in the community door/ Minister, developer team to build aff ordable by developing and participating in the development housing on church lot.” SFGate, 9 May 2003. of residential, commercial and industrial projects “Pastor J. Edgar Boyd, Senior Minister” First African that contribute to the economic stimulation and vi- Methodist Episcopal Church. 2018.

13 REV. DR AMOS

. IMAGE

C. BROWN COURTESY

OF

NAACP

EV. DR. AMOS C. BROWN is a man dedicated Rto social justice and the teachings of Jesus. Throughout his life, his work embodied the fi ght for human rights and upheld the morals of the church. Through his ministry, service, activism, and com- Rev. Dr. Amos C. Brown in 2016. munity involvement, he has created a long-lasting impact that will be engraved in the fi ght for justice. College in 1964. He later went on to earn his Mas- Amos C. Brown was born in Jackson, Mississip- ter of Divinity degree from Crozer Theological pi, on February 20, 1941. He was raised in an envi- Seminary and a Doctor of Ministry degree from ronment of hardship and constant struggle. Brown United Theological Seminary. He began his service attributes his strength to his upbringing in his as a pastor at Saint Paul’s Baptist Church in West hometown. He explains that Jackson had a strong Chester, , and later worked at Pilgrim sense of community where both middle-class and Baptist Church in St. Paul, Minnesota. In 1976, he lower-income African Americans came together to was called upon to be the pastor at San Francisco’s form family-like relationships. When he was fi fteen, Third Baptist Church, where he implemented his the death of Emmett Till strongly impacted Brown. “priestly prophetic model of ministry.” This model In response, he created the fi rst NAACP Youth aims to call people to truth, justice, and to strive for Council in Jackson. Shortly after, he was invited to world peace. He continues to speak about his ser- San Francisco to attend an NAACP national con- vice as “two-winged”—you need individual eff ort vention. There he met Dr. Martin Luther King, and a ministry dedicated to social justice. Brown Jr., and , who had just succeeded in the actively works to promote social justice and also —and this milestone gal- strives to help others with personal problems. vanized a lifetime of work aimed at gaining justice. This philosophy has guided his many widespread After fi nishing high school, Brown obtained his contributions. He helped start a successful summer bachelor’s degree in sociology from Morehouse school program and after-school academic enrich-

14 CHANGEMAKERS ment program as well as a music academy free for activist fi ghting the San Francisco housing and all to express themselves. Brown also directed eff orts gentrifi cation . Dr. Rev. Brown seeks to en- to donate $68,000 for the Somalian relief eff ort in sure that the African American community in San 1984, and $300,000 for the Ethiopian crisis. Francisco, specifi cally the Fillmore District, is able He has held positions as a member of the gov- to stay and prosper despite the changing landscape erning board of San Francisco Community Col- of the city. lege, and as National Chairman of the National As a testament to his hard work, Brown has re- Baptist Commission on Civil Rights and Human ceived the Martin Luther King, Jr., Ministerial services. He has also served as a member of the Award, was inducted into the International Hall of San Francisco Board of Supervisors, Chairman of Fame at the King International Chapel at More- the Bay Area Ecumenical Pastors Conference, fi rst house College, was invited to Christmas dinner Vice President of the California State Baptist Con- with President Obama, and he has been frequently vention, President of the NAACP branch in San honored in his hometown of Jackson. A recent cel- Francisco, and as a member of the governing board ebration held at Third Baptist Church honoring 40 of the National Council of Churches of Christ. years of Rev. Dr. Brown’s service brought numerous Rev. Dr. Amos C. Brown’s work has pushed national and international luminaries to town to rec- for equality on both the national and internation- ognize his leadership. al stage. As an active leader, he has worked on the Rev. Dr. Amos C. Brown is the true embodi- 2001 United Nations Conference on Race and ment of passion, hard work, determination, and Intolerance, served as a national faith leader after dedication to social justice. As the NAACP website 9/11 and met with Rev. , Jr., and South rightly proclaims: “Dr. Amos C. Brown is a legend African President Nelson Mandela to speak about in his own time.” pressing issues regarding African development and US foreign policy. His church has accepted more — Carlos Calles, Kimberly McAllister, African refugees than any other church in America. and Zachary James He has also worked with NAACP president Kweisi Mfume to provide scholarships to students pursu- Works Cited ing higher education. Throughout all of his eff orts, “Dr. Amos C. Brown.” NAACP. 2019. Brown has continuously stressed the importance of “Pastor Brown.” Third Baptist.org. 2016. education. Partnering the church with San Francis- “Rev. Amos Brown to celebrate 40 years at San co State University and San Francisco Community Francisco’s Third Baptist Church.” ABC 7 News. College, he acknowledges education as a way to lib- 2 Sept. 2017. erate people from their physical, mental, psycholog- ical, and emotional bondage. Most recently, Brown has been serving as an

15 THADDEUS IMAGE

‘THAD’ COURTESY

OF

BROWN HISTORY

CENTER

HADDEUS ‘THAD’ BROWN was born in Vicks- , SF

Tburg, Mississippi, in 1927. Before becoming PUBLIC San Francisco Head Tax Auditor, father of seven

children, and constructor of groundbreaking social LIBRARY

progress, he came from humble beginnings. Brown was drafted into the military, serving as a Tuskegee Airman, and was not able to continue his educa- Thad Brown was a tax collector for San Francisco. tion until the late 1940s. After serving in one of San Francisco’s military branches, Brown decided Brown were often understood and analyzed with to stay and pursue undergraduate and graduate de- the same kind of appreciation. In his fi rst years of grees from San Francisco State College and Golden public offi ce during the early 1970s, he instituted Gate College. This was where he was fi rst intro- the city’s fi rst payroll/income tax and raised busi- duced to the fi eld of public administration, where ness taxes, which increased the San Francisco’s rev- his true talents were discovered. By 1969, he had enues and annual income. Even with this contri- attained the “highest civil service post reached by bution, he continued to face racial discrimination. a black employee in the city’s history,” with many Media outlets and local government employees of- labeling him a genius and history changer as he be- ten argued against him getting pay increases even came the head tax collector. though he had been getting paid less than the ma- Though this was an amazing achievement, jority of other public service offi cials. Brown was also subject to public racial scrutiny. Be- Brown’s increased tax rates caused some busi- ing the highest-ranking African American admin- nesses to fl ee in order to avoid these taxes. Yet, be- istrator in the San Francisco government, Brown cause of the rapidly growing fi nancial state of San achieved a powerful public status that was accom- Francisco as a whole, a net gain in income and new panied by massive public pressure. Brown was in businesses neutralized any eff ect from select busi- the process of becoming one of the most infl uential nesses choosing to operate elsewhere. black fi gures in the city’s history. Both he and Willie Things were playing out splendidly in Brown’s

16 CHANGEMAKERS career—he oversaw a staff of 127 persons (includ- once again racially targeted (Gordon). Unrelated ing attorneys, auditors, and investigators)—until to the Candlestick Park case, Mr. Brown decided to the infamous ‘Metergate.’ In 1978, Brown and retire that same year from his long career of public sixteen of his employees had been suspended and service. charged for the embezzlement of city parking me- Thaddeus Brown worked with tireless ambi- ter funds amounting to $3 million. He believed the tion throughout his career. During his last years as suspension was racially biased and planned on fi l- head tax collector, he instituted stiff er penalties and ing a lawsuit but later decided against it. On March looser deadlines regarding the payment of taxes, 24, 1978, Brown was suspended during an audit especially for small businesses. This resulted in min- of the tax collector’s offi ce but returned on March imized tax fraud and an increase in small business 30 to work (Cone). Chief Administrative Offi cer revenue. After serving as tax collector for almost placed him on a six-month probation 25 years, he retired in 1994 and lived out his last while his offi ce was being audited where he would months focusing his energy and time on his per- work on special jobs before he could return to his sonal life and supporting his wife, Rosalie, and his position as tax collector (“Gets Job Back”). Rog- seven children. Brown passed away at the age of er Boas, who led this investigation, later admitted 67 on December 16, 1994, suff ering a heart attack there was “no evidence that Brown knew of or had while driving (Moore). His legacy will be forever any involvement in the operation.” Nonetheless, cemented within the history of San Francisco and Brown faced serious political and public scrutiny he will be forever remembered as a Changemaker. for these accusations. After returning back to his —Marcelo Swoff ord and Zoe Foster offi ce in May 1978, his fi rst task was to address the speculation that workers were getting paid for a full Works Cited day after only working four hours. He instated a strict 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. workday rule. Cone, Russ. “Amid Racism Charges, Brown Fights for Brown admitted that he temporarilyy lost Job.” SF Examiner, 3 Apr. 1978, p. 5. some of his passion for public service due to the Gordon, Rachel. “S.F. Tax Collector Under Micro- racial bias of these investigations. This did not set .” SF Examiner, pp. A-1. 1 Apr. 1978. him back in terms of his campaign for the position Moore, Teresa. “Ex-S.F. Tax Collector Thad Brown Dies.” SF Chronicle, 17 Dec. 1994, p. A17. of City Assessor in November 1978, and he was “Thad Brown Gets Another Job.” SF Chronicle, 7 Apr. able to win this seat once again. Another case of 1978, Four Star, p. 5. racial discrimination against Brown occurred in “Thad Brown Gets Job Back.” SF Examiner, 3 May 1978, 1994—this time it was allegations against his offi ce p.1. by the Leonoudakis brothers. His offi ce was ac- “Thad Brown: Tax Collector.” Ebony. July 1972. cused of not collecting millions of dollars from the Candlestick Park taxes but Brown believed he was

17 MAYOR IMAGE

WILLIE BROWN COURTESY

OF

THE

WILLIE

L . BROWN AYOR WILLIE L. BROWN was a born fi ghter.

The fi rst African American mayor of San , M JR . Francisco grew up in Mineola, Texas, approximate- INSTITUTE ly two thousand miles away from the Bay Area. At the time of Brown’s birth in 1934, Texas was a deeply segregated state. In Mineola, a single rail- road track divided black communities from white communities. Violent white mobs would prevent San Francisco’s two-term mayor now heads the Willie L. Brown, Jr. Institute on Politics and Public Service. African Americans from voting, a direct act of racial oppression. The Great Depression and entrenched however, as the local police raided the Brown’s fam- racial discrimination made obtaining employment ily business, searching the premises for illegal moon- diffi cult for Willie’s father, Lewis Brown. Lewis shine. Willie stood up to the police offi cers and de- found work as a railroad porter and was absent for manded they come back with a warrant. It was an much of Willie’s childhood. Mayor Brown’s moth- early illustration of the resolve and composure that er and grandmother, Millie Collins Boyd and Anne would defi ne his political career. Lee Collins respectively, raised Willie and his four Willie decided to move to San Francisco in siblings. Brown credits his grandmother for shaping 1951 with his uncle. He sought to further his ed- his strong work ethic, civic engagement, and sense ucation and applied to . Willie of greater responsibility. didn’t have the necessary scholastic qualifi cations From a young age, Willie Brown had the strength required for admission, but Brown impressed his to challenge racial discrimination. Like many Ameri- admission advisor with his ambition and charisma can families during the Great Depression, the Brown and he ended up helping the young man to enroll family struggled to put food on the table. Brown at San Francisco State University. worked as a fi eld hand, janitor, and fry cook. To make Brown worked as a doorman, a janitor, and a extra money, he helped manage a small betting and shoe salesman to pay for his tuition. He was initial- drinking hall with his family. This was short-lived, ly motivated to graduate with a teaching creden-

18 CHANGEMAKERS tial and work as a math teacher. That all changed, Brown was twice elected mayor of San Fran- however, when Willie joined the Young Democrats cisco with massive support from the city’s African organization on campus. The organization con- American and LGBTQ communities. His commit- nected him with John Burton, a future political ment to civil rights and pragmatic governing style ally in the California legislature. Willie decided to resonated with many San Francisco voters. During pursue a degree in political science and volunteer his tenure, the Brown administration spent millions at the NAACP’s San Francisco branch. After re- of dollars addressing the city’s key long-term issue: ceiving his bachelor’s degree from San Francisco . He created new shelters, supportive State, Brown earned a degree from UC Hast- housing, and addiction treatment centers for the ings Law School. homeless. Brown, like many mayors before and after Drawn to political fi ghts over racial segrega- him, saw the need for much more federal assistance tion and discrimination, Brown battled against a in addressing homelessness. Among his many oth- city housing developer who refused to sell homes er lasting contributions, Brown’s leadership ushered in Forest Knolls, an area west of Twin Peaks, to in a new phase of building in San Francisco that African Americans. Brown’s thorough political in- helped shape its current skyline. volvement inspired him to run for the State Assem- After his eight years in the mayoral offi ce, Brown bly in 1962. He lost his fi rst race, but returned in co-hosted a morning radio show with Will Durst on 1964 with more experience and won. Brown was San Francisco Air America Radio, and still serves only one of four African American members of as a columnist for the . He also the 1964 State Assembly. established The Willie L. Brown, Jr. Institute on Pol- Willie Brown served in the California State As- itics and Public Service at San Francisco State Uni- sembly from 1964–1995, where he proved himself versity. In 2013, the western span of the Bay Bridge to be a prolifi c and pragmatic lawmaker in Sacra- was named in his honor. Mayor L. Willie Brown’s mento. By 1969, only fi ve years since he fi rst got legacy has inspired new generations of progressive elected, he was elevated to the role of Democratic leadership. His fi ghting spirit continues to shape the Party whip of the state assembly. In 1975, Willie character of San Francisco. wrote, lobbied, and passed the Consenting Adult Sex Bill, legalizing homosexuality in California. —Julio Ceja, Ashley Cruz, Matt Chiodo, and Madison Owens The bill cemented his legacy as a civil rights leader Works Cited in the LGBTQ community. By 1981, Brown be- came the fi rst African American Speaker of the Gordon, Rachel. “The Mayor’s Legacy.” SFGate. 4 Jan. 2004. Assembly, and was considered one of the most for- “San Francisco Mayor Willie Brown challenges SFSU Class midable and powerful state legislators in the coun- of 2001.” SFSU Press Release, May 28, 2001. try. He served as Assembly leader until his 1995 “San Francisco Willie Brown comes home to roost at S.F. State Ex-mayor sets up leadership center at alma mater.” San Francisco mayoral run. SF Chronicle. Nov. 8, 2007.

19 ALTHEDA IMAGE

KENNEDY COURTESY

OF

CARRIE ALTHEDA

LTHEDA KENNEDY CARRIE dedicated her life to KENNEDY Afi ghting for racial equality in San Francisco

public schools. She was born to Blyden Kenne- CARRIE dy and Nellie Gray in Charleston, West Virginia. Her father was a teacher and coal miner and her mother was a seamstress. An excellent student, Carrie was elected class president and graduated from Garnet High School third in her class. Her Altheda Kennedy Carrie is a widely respected educator. scholastic achievements earned her a scholarship to Wilberforce University, an all black university in . After a year at Wilberforce, a professor time typically hired white educators over equally off ered Carrie an opportunity to work in Califor- qualifi ed black educators. Describing SFUSD’s nia. She accepted, and moved to San Francisco in hiring practices, Altheda stated, “It wasn’t said, but the late 1940s. race was implied.” Supervisors told her that there She enrolled at San Francisco State University were no available positions, yet they would contin- where she received both a Bachelor of Arts degree ue to hire white teachers. and Master of Arts degree in Psychology, earn- Determined to begin her career in education, ing her the qualifi cations to serve as a guidance she asked if she could become a substitute teacher counselor. Ever civically minded, Carrie knew she instead. Her remarkable persistence and outstand- wanted to work in education, so she studied for, ing work ethic eventually led to a meeting with the and earned, her teaching credential. SFUSD Board of Education. She confronted the Ms. Carrie entered the San Francisco Unifi ed Board about its claim of not having any openings School District (SFUSD) during a pivotal time in for teachers because she noticed that during her the fi ght for racial equality, which posed many fi rst day, there was a permanent opening. When challenges for young black teachers. Prejudice and the Board gave her freedom to choose where she discrimination against people of color was promi- would like to teach, she chose Bayview–Hunters nent within the SFUSD. The school district at the Point Elementary.

20 CHANGEMAKERS As she taught, another teacher recommend- social activism, especially within youth and fami- ed her to her husband, who was the principal of lies. Aside from her work, she also enjoys traveling, Rosa Parks Elementary. Carrie decided to follow reading, and performing. Following her academic through with the recommendation. Not long after, and work careers, Carrie took the time to travel ex- the principal of Benjamin Franklin Junior High tensively. School off ered Carrie a teaching position. Carrie Prior to pursuing her master’s degree, Carrie accepted and was promoted to Dean of Students. met her future husband, Roosevelt Carrie. From Carrie said that although it was an honor having a this marriage, Altheda Kennedy became Mrs. Al- higher position as assistant principal, she did not theda Kennedy Carrie. She and her husband lived like being away from the kids. in San Francisco and had two children, a son Al The demand for Altheda Carrie’s knowledge and a daughter Ava. and expertise continued. A professor visited Ben- Today she still engages with communities, es- jamin Franklin Junior High School and off ered her pecially in the Fillmore. She supports local busi- the chance to take a leave from the district to work nesses and workers, stays connected to friends of with a program called the South Toledo Educa- the past, meets new people, and gives students op- tion Project at San Francisco State University. The portunities to make use of their free time by off er- purpose of the program was to gather experienced ing volunteer opportunities or connections to the teachers who could assist professors at SFSU to community. She also assisted greatly in the creation teach graduate students as they earned their teach- of this book by meeting frequently with students at ing credentials. the University of San Francisco. After a total of 28 years in many education- In many regards, Mrs. Altheda Kennedy Car- al positions, Carrie’s teaching career concluded at rie symbolizes change through and is known Marina Middle School. Even after she retired, she as a community changemaker. still wanted to work with students, so she followed her passion by volunteering in the Fillmore at the —Jazlynn Pastor and Hannah Shepherd Ella Hill Hutch Community Center. Her membership and participation within the Works Cited greater community involves being a lifetime mem- ber of Black Women Organized for Political Ac- Carrie, A. (2015, November 15). Personal interview with tion (BWOPA), the NAACP, Jazylnn Pastor. Mendenhall, Jeff ery. “Prince Hall Trains Western Addition Sorority, Bay Area Association of Black Psycholo- Youths in Computer Expertise.” The Western Addition, gists, Bethel AME Church, National Coalition of 31 Mar. 2015. 100 Black Women, and the National Council of Pearson, Holly. San Francisco Recreation and Parks, Negro Women. 15 Jan. 2015. “BWOPA Lifetime Members.” Black Women Organized for Carrie’s passions focused on education and Political Action, Oakland, CA. 2015.

21 REVELS IMAGE

COURTESY

CAYTON OF

DAVID

S . JOHNSON

EVELS HIRAM CAYTON was born in Seattle, RWashington, in 1907, to a family of activists. His parents Susie Cayton and Horace Cayton, Sr., were infl uential middle-class African American leaders in Seattle. Horace, Sr., was born a slave in Mississippi. His life experiences drove him to cre- ate , a weekly newspaper he Revels Cayton in the 1960s. hoped would encourage activism within the black community. Revels’ mother Susie also grew up in subjected to 16-hour work days. It wasn’t long be- Mississippi and was the daughter of the fi rst African fore Cayton began his involvement with labor rights American U.S. senator, Hiram Revels. His accom- groups, namely the Colored Marine Employment plishment was always an inspiration to Revels Cay- Benevolent Association or CMEBA. This was an ton and his siblings. Cayton was one of fi ve chil- important stepping stone in him becoming an ac- dren. His entire family was committed to furthering tivist. justice and racial equality. According to Horace, Jr., The Cayton family name was well known in Cayton’s brother and an infl uential sociologist, “our the city of Seattle, especially in the political realm. goals were dictated by our past; we were obligated In 1934, a group of Seattle communists, including by our family history to [strive for] achievement in Revels, stormed a local city council meeting de- our fi ght for individual and racial equality.” manding that discrimination based on race be made Revels was originally raised in one of the illegal. This act had such a strong impact on the wealthiest parts of Seattle, but a string of bad luck council members that they decided to hold a larger led to fi nancial hardship for his family. At the age meeting to discuss the conditions facing minorities of 15, Revels got a job as a telephone operator on in Seattle. Cayton also fought against a proposed various passenger ships. This is where he was fi rst anti-miscegenation law in Seattle, helping to keep introduced to the lifestyles of maritime and other Washington one of the only states in the country to blue-collar workers. He worked as a waiter and was allow interracial marriages. Revels undoubtedly left

22 CHANGEMAKERS Revels Cayton was a civil rights John F. Shelley as well as the San Francisco Human Rights Commissioner and Deputy Mayor for Social leader and a prominent labor Programs under the administration. He offi cially stopped working for the city in 1972, organizer who held many but his advocacy for minorities and minority work- important offi cial positions for ers did not stop then. Cayton continued his work in public service but retired in 1988; he was actively the city of San Francisco. involved in the San Francisco’s civic and political sphere until his death on Saturday, November 4, his mark on the city of Seattle, but his activism did 1995. He died in San Francisco at the age of 88. not stop there. Revels Cayton was a dynamic activist, his ad- Cayton moved to San Francisco, where he vocacy for people of color coalesced with his work quickly became involved in maritime labor rights as a prominent water-front labor organizer. Cayton in the Bay Area. He became a prominent leader is often remembered for the tenacity he demon- in the Marine Cooks and Stewards Union in San strated throughout his lifetime. In one instance, he Francisco and the Vice President of the Maritime had sent President Truman a telegram, notifying Federation of the Pacifi c in July of 1937. In 1941, him of the demand for full freedom and absolute Revels moved to Los Angeles where he became the equality for people of color in the United States. director of the State Congress of Industrial Orga- Cayton’s distinguished career as an activist deeply nizations (CIO) Minorities Commission and Vice shaped the cities of Seattle and San Francisco for President of the California State CIO Council. the better. In the following years, he once again became involved with the communist party. Cayton became —Delaney Miller and Isabel Tayag the Executive Secretary of the Communist Nation- al Negro Congress (NNC) based in New York City. Works Cited His move to New York had major impacts on his personal life. The move brought an end to his fi rst Diaz, Ed. “Cayton, Revels (1907–1995).” The Black Past: marriage with Ethel Horowitz. He then met Lee Remembered and Reclaimed. Association for African American Historical Research and Preservation. Davidson who would become his second wife and Falconer, Sarah. “Revels Cayton.” Civil Rights and Labor mother to his son Michael Revels Cayton. History Project. 2018. Revels Cayton returned to San Francisco in the “Revels Cayton Obituary.” SFGate, 6 Nov. 1995. early 1950s, and in the 60s he became heavily in- Sixty-two Heroes and Pioneers of the Western Addition. San Francisco African American Cultural and Historical volved with the civil rights movement that was now Society. 2010. in full swing. Cayton was appointed the Deputy Di- rector of the San Francisco Housing Authority by

23 BILL IMAGE

COURTESY

CHESTER OF

DAVID

S . N THE DAY OF HIS FUNERAL, William “Bill” JOHNSON OChester laid still in a small church brimming with the people he had inspired during his lifetime. Jim Herman, the President of the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU), spoke Bill Chester was an infl uential labor leader. fondly of Chester: “Thousands of members of the ILWU have enjoyed a better life because of Bill’s started working at the longshore local, there were work over the years. He was a pioneer in the fi ght only 75 African Americans working alongside him. for racial equality, within the unions and in the He continued to work in the maritime industry of community at large. His many civic and communi- San Francisco from 1938 until the early 1940s when ty activities were a credit to all of his labor. He will he was called back into service for the Army. He be very sorely missed.” served for the entirety of the war and was reinstated Chester was born on January 6, 1914, in Shreve- to the ILWU upon returning to San Francisco. port, , and later moved to Kansas City, As progressive as the ILWU was for its time, Missouri, when he was just one year old. Chester’s that didn’t exempt it from discriminatory behavior father, a railroad worker, died when he was 11 years (despite the union’s international constitution for- old. After high school, Chester pursued higher edu- bidding it). Chester helped to organize a “black cau- cation at Western College in Kansas. He attended cus,” or as he called it, “getting the boys together to school there for two years before he decided to put talk over a problem.” They hoped to create con- his education on hold due to the Great Depression. structive policies and eliminate the destructive ones. Soon after, he enlisted in the Army and served with Chester was put into one of his fi rst positions of the 25th Infantry Regiment, an all-black unit, for leadership when he was elected to be chairman of three years at Fort Huachuca, . While serv- the union’s investigating committee. He also became ing in the Army, Chester noticed the lack of black chairman of the publicity committee for the 1948 line offi cers. This prompted him to think deeply longshore strike. It was around this time that he be- about civil rights and social injustices in America. came more well known, even garnering enough sup- When Chester was discharged in the late 1930s, port to be elected onto a majority white committee. he traveled to San Francisco, where he quickly He later served on the Longshore Union member- found a job as a longshoreman. When Chester fi rst ship committee as chairman, and had a signifi cant

24 CHANGEMAKERS role in approving all new members. In 1951 Chester the largest demonstration of civil rights activism the was appointed as the Northern California Region- Bay Area had ever seen. On May 26, 1963, 20,000 al Director by , the ILWU President. people of diff erent walks of life marched on Mar- He remained in that role for 18 years before he was ket Street in a display of solidarity. The march was elected ILWU Vice President. Chester was the fi rst followed up by a 30,000 person rally. In the same person of color to hold this high position in the year, Chester inducted Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., union, allowing him to bring more people of color into the Local No. 10 branch of the ILWU as an into higher level jobs. Shortly after ILWU’s integra- honorary member. Dr. King visited Local 10’s hall tion, exclusively white unions like MFOW (Marine in 1967 to praise the ILWU’s eff orts in civil rights Firemen, Oilers, Water tenders) and SUP (Sailors and social justice. Union of the Pacifi c) also broke down their discrim- In 1970, Chester was appointed to the BART inatory policies. Board of Directors by Mayor Joseph Alioto. He Chester believed that “the union was the com- helped guide the system through its most vulnerable munity” and with this philosophy, he worked hard and volatile beginnings. Through the board’s suc- to fi ght for black and brown equity. It was through cess, he became president, and was the fi rst person this movement that San Francisco became one of to ride an offi cial train under the San Francisco Bay. the most unionized cities in the country. William H. Chester passed away on Novem- Many black members of the union were also ber 3, 1985. At his funeral, ILWU President Harry leaders in other religious and civic organizations, Bridges spoke of Chester with great admiration. so the union formed alliances with these organiza- Chester had an “enormous compassion for the tions in order to elevate the community as a whole. oppressed, his hatred for racism and all forms of Chester was invited to the meetings held by local injustice, his defense of the right of people to be ministers where he advocated for unity between advocates, to enjoy full liberty in this system.” clergy, community, and trade unions. He managed to get involved in every aspect of the community’s —Jesse Cortes and Mei Lin life. He encouraged black members to deposit sav- ings and get loans from black bankers. Chester and Works Cited other union leaders met with Edgar Kaiser asked Cole, Peter. “Chester, William H. (1914–1985).” that Kaiser Hospital hire black interns and doctors. BlackPast.org. 2018. Similarly, the union demanded there be black super- Schwartz, Harvey. “Oral History of Bill Chester.” visors in City Hall. Their eff orts were successful—in Bill Chester: ILWU Civil Rights and Community 1964 Terry Francois was appointed to the Board Leader 1938–1969, Volume VI, Part I. 1 May 2004. of Supervisors by Mayor John Shelley and became Sixty-Two Heroes and Pioneers of the Western Addition. Afri- the fi rst African American to serve on the board. can American Cultural and Historical Society. 2010. Chester’s crowning achievement was organizing

25 IMAGE

DR. COURTESY

OF

LA

CAESAR JONES

CHURCHWELL MEDIA

R. CAESAR ALFRED CHURCHWELL is a long- Dtime advocate for minority businesses in San Francisco. When he’s not managing his dental Advocate for underrepresented black-owned businesses. practice in the outer Mission District, he is serving on the board of San Francisco’s African American According to the San Francisco Travel Bayview Chamber of Commerce (SFAACC). Currently newspaper, 2012 was the most successful year of Vice Chairman of the Board, Dr. Churchwell has tourism. However much of the profi t did not come previously held positions as California State Com- from black businesses. With so few opportunities missioner, residential developer, and parking man- to benefi t from San Francisco’s bountiful tourism agement operator. His work with SFAACC has im- industry, the SFAACC saw that the exclusion of pacted numerous black businesses by giving them a minority businesses was unfair. voice in the development of the city. Working with Five years prior to the movement for better late Mayor , he’s helped to create new busi- representation SFAACC leaders had already rec- ness opportunities and halt the migration of black ognized the disempowering eff ects that little repre- businesses struggling with “out-migration” (Carla). sentation had. In an interview with the San Fran- In 2014 Dr. Churchwell helped organize a trav- cisco Bayview newspaper, Dr. Churchwell voiced his el boycott with African American business leaders. grievances and motivation for the travel boycott: The boycott nearly cost the city $32 million in an- “Residents of Bayview-Hunters Point have a life nual revenue from tourism. Overseeing the tourism expectancy that is 14 years less than residents of department, Dr. Churchwell realized the image that Pacifi c Heights, and just 50 percent of our children the city was trying to present to tourists was not in- are graduating from San Francisco high schools. clusive of black neighborhoods. Ads catered to white The mayor’s offi ce and the Board of Supervisors audiences: and tours and attractions were being need to take action and pay more than lip service centered in more gentrifi ed neighborhoods. Most to these issues. When it comes to being progressive, employees in the tourism industry excluded African talk is cheap” (Jackson). He resented the unequal American and Latinx voices and perspectives. distribution of wealth and resources in San Francis-

26 CHANGEMAKERS co and sought to make change in the city. Church- the city has in place to indicate the hiring of pri- well’s boycott commanded attention from city lead- vate contractors. Churchwell saw this corruption in ers by way of monetary force. “The San Francisco the city’s business dealings and warned that there African American Chamber called the boycott,” would only be more “backroom deals” to follow. Churchwell said, “and only the Chamber can call Additionally, he shared frustration with the lack it off . We have a responsibility to our members and of local businesses considered for the job, pointing our community to ensure that they have access to out more blind spots in San Francisco lawmakers’ the same opportunities as other businesses in San perspectives. Lastly, he asked for the contract with Francisco” (Jackson). Jacobs Engineering to be canceled and for the Pub- In conjunction with the San Francisco African lic Utilities Commission to begin looking for a local American Chamber of Commerce, Dr. Churchwell company to ensure that taxpayers will receive the met with former Mayor Ed Lee. During this summit highest quality work at a best rate (Churchwell). the SFAACC explained to Lee that the reason for Dr. Caesar Alfred Churchwell’s tireless eff orts to the large African American emigration occurring ensure the survival of black-owned businesses in the was the lack of job opportunities and aff ordable Bay Area is a noble enterprise and an excellent use housing due to gentrifi cation. In response to these of his social standing in the African American com- allegations, Lee became an advocate for racially in- munity of San Francisco. Coupled with his years of clusive city contracts and business opportunities. work as a dentist running his own practice, Church- Along with advocating for black businesses in well has proven himself as a pillar in his community, the tourism sector, Churchwell has also called out and a valuable voice of progress for San Francisco. “backroom deals.” On June 22, 2015, Churchwell wrote to the commissioner of San Francisco Public —Sage Stefanick, Lupita Garcia, and Cassey Cassamajor Utilities Commission, Ann Moller Caen, to voice his disapproval of a $7 million contract awarded Works Cited to Jacobs Engineering. At fi rst glance the grant was benefi cial to the community (it would fund and ex- Churchwell, Caesar A. Jacobs Engineering Award. ecute a public project called the Central Bayside Jackson, Xochitl. “San Francisco could face $32 million Improvement Project improving storm-water man- loss from African American tourism boycott.” agement and ensuring compliance with current and , 4 Mar. 2014. future regulations for earthquake safety). Church- “Letter to San Francisco Public Utilities Commissioner well disagreed with the fi nal decision, however, Caen.” SFAACC, 22 June 2015, when he realized that the Public Utilities Commis- “Offi cers and Board of Directors.” San Francisco sion allowed just one vendor, Montgomery Watson, African American Chamber of Commerce, 2014. to cut a deal with Jacobs Engineering. Churchwell Thomas, Carla. “SFAACC Leaders Meet with Mayor said this was in direct opposition to the protocols Edwin Lee.” SFAACC. 2018

27 IMAGE

DR. COURTESY

OF

WILLIAM HISTORY

CENTER , SF

COBB PUBLIC

LIBRARY

DUCATION IS A RIGHT that should be given to all, Enot a privilege only for a select few. This was the ideal that Dr. William L. Cobb upheld throughout Dr. William Lennox Cobb in the 1950s. his career in education. From being one of the fi rst African American teachers in San Francisco to the Chapel High School from 1935–41 and Hawkins fi rst African American principal and assistant super- High School from 1941–43 in Texas. intendent of human relations, Cobb was a pillar for After making strides in education as a teaching educational evolution through his tireless work to principal, Cobb served in the US Navy from 1943 desegregate San Francisco’s Unifi ed School District. to 1946. After the war, he moved to San Francis- In 1910, William L. Cobb was born in Jones- co and became the fi rst African American princi- boro, Arkansas, to LeAnn and Harold Cobb. After pal in the San Francisco Unifi ed School District. moving around for a few years, Cobb attained his Cobb served at Emerson elementary school from high school degree and attended Texas College, 1947–1963 until he was appointed as the assistant earning a bachelor’s degree in Social Studies in superintendent of human relations. 1935. In 1940, fewer than 10 percent of 25 year When asked to describe his emotions upon re- old people of color had completed a four-year high ceiving this position, which allowed him to create school education, so for Cobb to not only have more avenues for racial integration, he explained completed high school, but attained a bachelor’s that he “doesn’t believe in miracles.” As a man of degree in Social Studies from Texas College was an action and initiative, he knew “that intolerances can outstanding accomplishment. Additionally, he was be broken through education.” one of the fi rst black men to earn a master’s de- Upon entering this position, the community, gree in education and an Ed.D. in educational ad- fellow educators, and prospective students all wel- ministration at the University of California. Upon comed Cobb with open arms. Dr. William McKin- entering his twenties, Cobb immediately began ley Thomas, a highly regarded member of the San working to change the imbalanced and segregated Francisco Housing Authority, said that “the best educational system as a teaching principal at North way for a community to help itself is to practice the

28 CHANGEMAKERS Dr. William Cobb was the fi rst ed the passing of more bills to continuously aid the full and equal integration of K–12 institutions. African American teacher and In addition to becoming the fi rst African Amer- principal in the San Francisco ican principal and assistant superintendent chair, Cobb was also a pillar of the community and a cele- Unifi ed School District. brated social activist. Cobb held a Board of Director position in Children’s Agency and served democratic ideals wherein rewards are waiting for on the Board of Governors of the YMCA, both of those willing to work for them through self-improve- which promoted the pursuit of education and equal- ment. This is another step in the advancement of the ity within African American communities. Negro community.” Cobb died in November of 1976 at the age of 66. In the late 1960s, however, the community grew He was survived by his wife Irma, a fellow educator in impatient with integration initiatives. Claims had been the San Francisco Unifi ed School District and Oak- made against Cobb and the Board of Education stat- land School District, and his son Dr. William Cobb ing that they have held an evasive attitude towards Jr., and his three grandchildren. Because of Cobb’s specifi c initiatives in integrating the schools. In April hard work throughout the years, Emerson Elementary 1964, a picketing of the School Board hosted by the School changed its name to William Cobb Elementa- NAACP and CORE (Congress of Racial Equality), ry School to honor his legacy. roused the community to seek answers for unanswered questions. Reginald Major of the NAACP claimed, —Ya’qub Elmi and Chaniece Jeff erson “the board has been evasive on several issues concern- ing race, and we are convinced that problems are be- Works Cited ing created faster than they are being solved.” Cobb “120 Years of American Education: A Statistical Portrait.” emphasized that “none of the proposed redistricting Jan. 1993. Center for Education Statistics. involves transporting students by bus solely for the “Appointment Lauded: Board Praised for Naming Negro to purpose of bettering racial balances.” School Past.” SF Examiner. 21 Aug. 1947 In the article “Top Plans on School Bus- “Cobb Tells Surprise at Selection by Cash.” SF Examiner, 22 Aug. 1947. ing,” published in 1969 by the , Edises, Pele. “Something New Comes to Emerson.” SF Cobb and the rest of the Board of Education con- Examiner, 4 Sept. 1947. cocted a “secret and confi dential” plan that would uti- Gilmore, Lance. “NAACP Shifting Aim on S.F. School lize the bus system to integrate 20 elementary schools Targets.” SF Examiner. 30 July 1968. holding tens of thousands of students (Wood). Once Moskowitz, Ronald. “Two Groups to Picket School Board.” SF Examiner. 7 Apr. 1964. the plan was set in motion and approved in January “School Race Issue Revived.” SF Examiner, 17 June 1984. of 1969, Cobb insisted that no publicity be given on Wood, Jim. “Top Secret Plans on School Busing.” SF Examiner, this report. After passing this initiative, Cobb promot- 30 Jan. 1969.

29 IMAGE

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UC

COLE BERKELEY , BANCFROT

LIBRARY DUCATION plays a vital role in society, and that Eis exactly what Josephine Cole believed while working for the San Francisco Unifi ed School Dis- Educator Josephine Cole in 1948. trict (SFUSD). According to a 1948 San Francisco Chronicle article, she was the fi rst African American Cole looked up to both of her parents, although elementary school teacher in the San Francisco Uni- they were both very diff erent from one another. Her fi ed School District and the fi rst to be employed in mother was extremely intellectual and strong-willed. a San Francisco high school (“Another First”). Cole Cole described her as being strict and having high worked hard to implement new ways of teaching to ambitions for her daughters. She would tell them: further motivate children to learn and succeed. She “Girls, you’re both girls and you’re colored, so strongly believed that every child wanted to learn, you’re going to have to do twice as much to get half but just had a diff erent means of being engaged. of what the whites have,” according to the interview Josephine Cole was born on January 18, 1913, conducted by Warr. Both her parents saw education in San Francisco to Joseph and Elizabeth Cole. She as a vital part of their success in the future and were grew up on Buchanan Street in a small cottage, with harshly criticized by others for going to great extents her grandparents living next door. Education was to educate their daughters: “My girls are my wealth always held in high regard at the Cole household and they’re going to get everything that I can place and her parents always made sure that their children before them. They won’t have to work in anybody’s studied. In an interview for the African American kitchen. They won’t have to kowtow.” Cole would Oral History project conducted on behalf of the respond. San Francisco Public Library led by Jesse J. Warr, Cole graduated from the University of Cali- Cole was asked what her dreams were when she was fornia in 1936 and began teaching that year at St. younger, to which she replied, “to be a teacher, I al- Vincent, a parochial school. She began teaching in ways wanted to be a teacher.” Cole worked hard to public schools and was appointed as a regular teach- gain knowledge and was always willing to teach any- er in 1941 according to a 1948 San Francisco Chronicle one: “I love teaching. I love school and I like kids. I article. It was also noted that she was the fi rst Afri- guess at heart, I’ll always be a teacher.” can American to earn a regular appointment as a

30 CHANGEMAKERS teacher in the city school system at Raphael Weill Herman Gallegos, Cole noticed something was lack- School in 1943, and became the fi rst to be employed ing in the students. Creating a workshop aimed at in a San Francisco high school. Cole was not the only training kids for jobs, her workshop had astonishing one who achieved a recognition for being fi rst to do results. According to James Benet of the San Francisco something—her husband, Audley Cole was the fi rst Chronicle, of her fi rst six-week workshop consisting of African American driver hired by the San Francisco twenty students, eighteen were either in job-train- Municipal Railway. ing or on jobs, or back in a regular school, and the During her fi rst years of teaching at Balboa other two were still working to meet academic re- High School, Cole came across a student’s input quirements for one of the best job-training courses. on learning that prompted her implementation of Cole implemented many programs, and her hard new teaching styles. In an article written by Ron- work did not go unnoticed. In 1982, she won the So- ald Moskowitz from the San Francisco Chronicle, Cole journer Truth Award from the Negro Business and articulates where her motivation for an alternative Professional Women. That same year Cole was U.S. learning style was derived. She had an English class Toastmistress clubs’ representative in international who “didn’t like English.” So she let students have a competition (Hamilton). say in what was taught. Many were in favor of Cole’s Raised on the belief that education is one of the approach as they saw many necessary skills being most important facets of life, Cole strove to improve built. Her approach appealed to the US Department education for all of her students by addressing what of State and the Principal of Balboa High School. was being overlooked in the SFUSD. She worked on Ralph Kauer spoke very highly of the program, as new ways to engage students to push themselves to did William Cobb, the new human relations offi cer achieve higher education or enter the workforce and for the school, who also praised the program. The ultimately become successful. President of the Teachers Association of San Fran- —Kendra Bean and Madison Owens cisco, Katharine Keeley, stated she “did not quite see the purpose of the program,” yet, according to Works Cited Moskowitz, others believed in its progress and that “when you let children organize into committees and “Another ‘First’ High School appointment goes to S.F. choose their own curriculum then I think it is a real Negro teacher” SF Chronicle 16 Feb. 1948. Benet, James. “The Dropout Teacher.” SF Chronicle triumph for progressive education.” 27 Sept. 1965. Cole became a prominent fi gure in the SFUSD Hamilton, Mildred. “Life-Long Teacher Who’s Still and worked to become involved in various organi- Eager To Learn Everything.” S.F. Examiner 16. Jan. 1983. zations. In 1971, four junior students and Josephine Moskowitz, Ronald. “English Program Criticized.” SF Examiner 06 Nov. 1963. Cole, the Student Relations Director for the SFUSD, Warr, Jesse J. Josephine E. Cole : Oral History Project.” were selected by Mayor Alioto to represent the San Francisco Public Library. 8 May 1972. city on a goodwill mission to Osaka, Japan. While “4 Students Selected for Osaka Trip” S.F. Examiner 21 May. working as the educational counselor of the Youth 1971. Opportunities center at Hunters Point, directed by

31 LINDA

DAVIS IMAGE

COURTESY

OF

SF

INDA DAVIS is known throughout the San Fran- PROGRESS Lcisco Unifi ed School District as the woman who led the “district through this time of change” after several months of uncertainty in 1978 (Phil- Linda Davis serving as SFUSD deputy superintedent. lips and Wynns). Davis was a natural leader and in- fl uenced others to break down racial stereotypes. As the fi rst woman to lead schools in the San Fran- es”). Starting in her fi rst year as deputy superinten- cisco Unifi ed School District and the fi rst African dent, Davis would prove her driven passion. In an American superintendent, she worked to improve SF Progress article, she stated that “classroom teach- learning for all children, regardless of race. ers and principals are the key players in public edu- Prior to her work in the San Francisco school cation. It is they, not district administrators . . . who district, Davis served in a variety of educational know best how to upgrade classroom instruction” roles in Pasadena, California. She served as a teach- (Borsuk). She put forth her and Cortines’ plan to er, administrator, and assistant superintendent, and have the teachers attend training workshops and was a key advocate for education on many state- to be provided with updated textbooks and equip- wide commissions. An SFGate article commended ment. Davis made it a point that some schools in Davis’ nearly four decades of experience (Asimov). the district have more resources than others and Through her infl uential work in classrooms and to combat this disparity, she planned to visit oth- administrative positions, Davis’ eff orts didn’t go er campus’ teachers and principals to learn about unnoticed. their resource needs (Borsuk). Linda Davis’ fi rst role in the San Francisco Two years later in 1988, the San Francisco Exam- Unifi ed School District came when she was cho- iner wrote an article about a parole offi cer’s eff ort to sen for deputy superintendent in 1986 by the San establish a high school with heavy security to pre- Francisco superintendent at the time, Ramon Cor- vent students from being aff ected by a drug deal- tines. Cortines was formerly the superintendent of ing problem. With Linda Davis as deputy school Pasadena Unifi ed School District, where Davis was superintendent, she took a controversial stance on his colleague (“Schools’ Chief Makes Staff Chang- the issue. Her ideology was “separating problem

32 CHANGEMAKERS Linda Davis served as years in the district she held a profound passion for education and educational reform. Superintendent of Because of her outstanding work as interim superintendent, many staff and others in the edu- the San Francisco Unifi ed cational community urged her to accept the per- School District. manent position as the fi rst woman on the school board. A staff writer for SFGate noted that she was students from other students contradicts tradition- also pushed to accept this job because of her wide- al educational philosophies” (Salter). Her attitude is ly admired educational expertise, her calm manner that students who are struggling need to be among and her ability to communicate with parents and well-rounded students to learn from example. teachers alike (Asimov). As a prominent leader within the San Fran- Davis’s positive infl uence in education policy cisco Unifi ed School District, Davis was extremely continues to live on as a reminder of her social involved in all aspects of education and wanted to activism. Linda Davis was, and continues to be, a create a more equitable system. “In the SFUSD,” changemaker in the San Francisco community. she said, “some schools have had more resources than others. That is going to change” (Borsuk). Da- —Althea Pyle and Zoe Foster vis prioritized spending her time among students Works Cited and on site at schools, rather than at the school dis- trict offi ces. She explained that “you cannot eval- Asimov, Nanette. “S.F. School Board Picks Deputy uate curriculum eff ectiveness by sitting behind a Chief as Interim Boss / Linda Davis to Hold Job desk” (Borsuk). during Search.” SFGate. 5 May 1999. In 1999, then superintendent, Dr. Waldemar Borsuk, Dan. “Curriculum Chief Lays Responsibility Rojas, announced his surprise relocation to Dallas. on Principals, Teachers.” SF Progress, 27 Aug. Because of Davis’ thirteen years of experience as 1986, p. A5. deputy superintendent, the SFUSD knew she was Phillips, Steve, and Jill Wynns. “Why Search? S.F. the only qualifi ed person for the job of interim Schools Need Linda Davis.” SFGate. 1 Oct. 1999. superintendent. Several board members granted Salter, Stephanie. “Reform School?” SF Examiner, 10 Mar. 1988. support for Davis, claiming that she possesses the “Schools’ Chief Makes Staff Changes.” SF personal and professional integrity that the district Examiner, 8 July 1986 needed (Asimov). In another article written by SF- Gate, the SFUSD described her as someone who is “intimately familiar with the needs of the district and all of the players in our diverse education com- munity” (Phillips and Wynns). Throughout Davis’

33 IMAGE

JUDGE COURTESY

OF

JOHN LEGAL

PAD DEARMAN

ORN ON March 28, 1931 in Eddy, Texas, former BSuperior Court Judge John Dearman became Judge John Dearman in 2009. widely known for being humble in the court, once even advising a fellow judge to “keep one’s ego in check” and to never refer to oneself as “Judge” from the heart of the Fillmore. (Cahill). His history as a social worker helped shape While Dearman began settling into West Coast him into a polite, patient, and respectful judge who life, a war was brewing in the Western Addition. would keep an open mind and listen to whomev- Homes were being torn down in the name of ur- er took the stand, regardless of the alleged crime. ban renewal and hundreds of people were being Known as a kind-hearted and resilient individual, displaced as a result. This was a direct outcome of Dearman earned the respect of many throughout Justin Herman being appointed in 1959 as head of his career. He received a B.A. from Wiley College in the San Francisco Redevelopment Agency (SFRA). Marshall, Texas, in May of 1954 and continued his Under Herman’s supervision, the SFRA A-1 Re- schooling at Wayne State University Law School in development Project began its work on turning the pursuit of becoming a . While preparing for then two-lane Geary Street into the current four- the bar exam after graduating from Wayne State, lane Geary Boulevard. This project turned Geary Dearman also worked as a social worker in Michi- into a “fi nancial dividing line” between minorities gan. He began his career as a lawyer in 1959 when and the wealthy and landlords began refusing to he left Detroit due to the fact that “no law fi rms in rent or sell homes to African Americans (PBS). San Detroit would hire a black attorney” (Egelko). After Francisco’s racial prejudice had become so prom- undergoing extreme prejudice in this community inent that many living in the community began to which he cared so much for, Dearman decided to take a stand in order to protect their homes. The move to San Francisco. It wasn’t long before he NAACP and other organizations coordinated sit- and Willie Brown started up Brown, Dearman & ins. On one occasion, Willie Brown and John Dear- Smith, a law practice that continued for twelve man sat against developments in Forest Knolls, a years after its inception. This fi rm worked for years protest that would catapult them into headlines of

34 CHANGEMAKERS local and label them as public fi gures. manent presider on the bench, Dearman could not The community’s civil disobedience was, in many bring himself to leave his role in the courts entirely. ways, eff ective and helped result in the Fair Hous- Dearman represented the heart of the West- ing Ordinance of 1968. This led to the creation ern Addition as someone who promoted social of the Fair Housing Act of 1968. This act did not change in San Francisco during a tumultuous time. permit discrimination in the selling, renting, or fi - His involvement in local community organizations nancing of housing based on race, religion, nation- and his dedication to grassroots action cemented al origin, and sex. This was a tremendous victory Dearman’s place in San Francisco history. Dear- within the community and refl ected Dearman’s man embodied the determined, hardworking, love for his neighborhood and its well-being. and kind-hearted spirit of African American San Before being appointed by Governor Jerry Franciscans, diligently making progress even when Brown to the San Francisco Municipal Court in facing numerous roadblocks along the way. He is 1977, Dearman cultivated a close friendship with known as an understanding judge, a local leader, Willie Brown. They connected over their strug- and a kind face among the crowds. John Dear- gles, their tenacity, and their love for the commu- man’s portrait upon the Ella Hill Hutch Commu- nity. Brown and Dearman later decided to pursue nity Center mural is well deserved because he con- a professional partnership because “the legislators tributed so much to the San Francisco community. [then part-time] were making only $500 a month, and Willie had three children” (Egelko). Dearman —Anya Kishen and Rachael Sandoval and Brown worked on many notable cases, repre- senting athletes such as former Warriors players Works Cited Nate Thurmond and Rick Barry (Brown). As the years moved forward, so did the pair’s friendship. Brown, Willie. “Professional deals then and now.” SF Chronicle. 31 May 2015, C1. Following Dearman and Brown’s partnership of Cahill, William. “Refl ections on Ten Years on the San twelve years, Dearman accepted his appointment Francisco Superior Court.” Bar Association of San to the Municipal Court Bench on March 28, 1977. Francisco. Aug./Sept. 2000. A couple of years later, he moved up to the San Egelko, Bob. “Three Questions For: Judge John Francisco Superior Court and began acting as Pre- Dearman.” SFGate. 12 Apr. 2009. siding Judge from 1990 to 1991. Dearman retired Park-Li, Gordon. “Longest-Serving Judge on the San on March 28, 2009, as one of the longest-serving Francisco Bench Retires After 32 Years.” Superior judges with 32 years of service on the San Fran- Court of California. 6 Apr. 2009. cisco bench. He went on to participate in the As- PBS. “Fillmore Timeline 1860-2001.” PBS. signed Judge Program, an opportunity for “active Smith, Pam. “SF’s Judge Dearman Retires, But Doesn’t Leave, Exactly.” Legal Pad, 6 Apr.2009. or retired judges and justices to cover judicial va- Wolf, Kathy, M. “California Courts and Judges.” James cancies” (Park-Li). Despite taking leave as a per- Publications. 2009.

35 FIRE CHIEF BOB DEMMONS IMAGE

COURTESY OBERT ‘BOB’ DEMMONS was born in Dallas, Texas, in 1940 and moved to San Francisco

R OF

in 1942. Fire Chief Demmons ushered in an era SFFD of equitable governance to the San Francisco Fire Department (SFFD). His commitment to achieving racial and gender equality remains an outstanding example of city leadership. Demmons graduated from the City College of Chief Robert L. Demmons in uniform, 1996. San Francisco and began his career as a fi refi ghter in 1974. The SFFD, which was historically dominated by white men, staff ed approximately 1,800 fi refi ght- SFFD. His journey would solidify his legacy as an ers and only four of them were black. The NAACP eff ective revolutionary. started fi ling legal suits against the department for Initially, the SFBFA was housed under the um- racially discriminatory hiring practices. Internally, brella of the Local 798 Fire Union. Due to racial black fi refi ghters led by Demmons banded together hostilities within the traditional union, however, to form the San Francisco Black Firefi ghters Associ- Demmons and other members of the Black Fire- ation (SFBFA) in 1972. fi ghters Association decided to form an indepen- Demmons didn’t seek to become a civil rights dent union. Demmons, elected to the presidency revolutionary. In an interview with George Co- of the union by his fellow peers, started document- thran from SF Weekly, Demmons stated his activism ing incidents of racial harassment. They organized “wasn’t something I did willingly.” He was inspired picket lines and started publicizing the problematic to fi ght on behalf of black fi refi ghters after tak- culture of the SFFD. Notably, Demmons spoke of ing his lieutenant exam in 1978. To his dismay, he Station 3 on , referring to it as “Johan- found that hiring decisions were motivated by race nesburg West.” White fi refi ghters proudly hung a rather than merit. Filled with determination, Dem- Confederate Flag in the station. Along with this, mons set out to address racial disparities within the two minority fi refi ghters found a swastika in their

36 CHANGEMAKERS offi ce in 1988, a public act of discrimination which specifi cally designed to ensure equal opportunity Demmons labeled as a “go to hell” message toward for advancement for all employees. people of color. Chief Demmons made a series of high-profi le Demmons continued to push toward justice and groundbreaking hires during his tenure. He within the BFA, inciting a ripple eff ect within appointed the fi rst African American Fire Marshal, the judicial system by applying severe scrutiny to fi rst African American woman Chief Offi cer, and the SFFD’s exams and claiming that the exams fi rst Hispanic Assistant Deputy Chief. In January were discriminatory against women and minority of 1999, the Consent Decree was terminated, in groups. In 1987, 9th Federal District Court Judge large part because of Chief Demmons’ infl uence. Marilyn Hall Patel found the SFFD in violation of Chief Bob Demmons’ commitment to civil rights Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act and issued allowed to help reform the San Francisco Fire De- a consent decree mandating the hiring of more partment. women and minority fi refi ghters. Even with this case victory, however, Demmons still faced racial —Matt Chiodo and Marcelo Swoff ord strife and hardship because of his role in obtain- ing the consent decree. In 1991, under Chief Fred Works Cited Postel, Demmons was appointed as the Assistant Chief of Management Services and was later “United States v. City and County of San Francisco, named Chief of the SFFD in 1996 by Mayor Wil- 656 F. Supp. 276.” Justia US Law. 26 Feb. 1987. “About the SFBFA.” San Francisco Black Firefi ghters lie Brown. Chief Demmons was tasked with revo- Association. 2018. lutionizing the department once again. Cothran, George. “The Fire Next Time.” SF Weekly. Throughout his tenure, the fi re department 3 Apr 1996. staff shifted to become forty percent minority and Campbell, Edward. “Robert L. Demmons” Guardians ten percent women. He was capable of implement- of the City: Fire Department. 2018. ing such a rapid demographic shift within the de- Epstein, Edward. “Court Ends Oversight of S.F. partment by reforming the fi re department’s hiring Fire Department.” SF Chronicle. 3 Dec 1998. practices, namely the H-2 Cadet Program and the Glover, Malcolm. “Black Firefi ghter: Racial Tensions Offi cer Candidate Program. The H-2 Cadet train- Still Smoldering.” SF Examiner. 1 Jul 1981. ing program eliminated the one-day exam, replac- Sward, Susan. “Brown’s Major Appointments.” SF Chronicle. 9 Jan 1996. ing it with a job training program. The program Minton, Torri. “S.F. Firefi ghters Find Swastika in allowed for the inclusion of racial minorities with- their Offi ce.” SF Chronicle. 6 Jan 1988. in the training program, and eliminated the sub- Zoellner, Tom. “SF Fire Chief Leaves Legacy of jective and often racially biased test. The Offi cer Change.” SF Chronicle. 28 July 2000. Candidate Program created a promotional exam- ination process for lieutenants and battalion chiefs

37 CLAUDE IMAGE

T. EVERHART COURTESY

OF

CLAUDE

T .

LAUDE T. EVERHART was born in San Francisco EVERHART Cin 1952, graduating from Lowell High School in 1970. During his high school years, Everhart joined the , where he was ac- tive in a variety of political demonstrations, the Claude T. Everhart served as Deputy Mayor in the late 80s. San Francisco State College strike, and the Pan- thers’ Free Breakfast Program. As a teen, Everhart headed the Oceanview– of Staff of then-Assemblyman ’s offi ce Merced–Ingleside Community Organization, pro- and as Chief Consultant to the Legislative Audit viding summer jobs for youth and organizing on be- Committee. During his term, he represented the half of community issues. He volunteered as Chair San Francisco mayor’s offi ce in Washington, D.C. of the San Francisco Senators, a youth development and Sacramento, engaging with politicians and program, and opened a residential group home as governmental organizations. Everhart was also an alternative to juvenile incarceration. In 1974, Mayor Agnos’s advisor and often spoke for him to Mr. Everhart founded the Young Community De- the press. During Agnos’s term, in addition to man- velopers, a “war on poverty” model cities youth pro- aging the city’s enormous recovery eff orts from the gram that survives to this day. Everhart also served 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake, the administration as chairman of the Candlestick Point Citizens’ helped San Francisco’s unhoused population by Advisory Committee when Candlestick State Park creating “Beyond Shelter,” a nationally recognized was originally constructed in the Bayview–Hunt- program that provided MultiService Centers for ers Point. He continued his community activism in the homeless. 1976 when he was hired as a part-time aide to newly With Everhart at his side, Mayor Agnos was elected Assemblyman Art Agnos. forced to make unpopular decisions in order to help At the height of Everhart’s political career, he San Francisco’s marginalized residents. For example, served as San Francisco’s Executive Deputy Mayor when the USS Missouri battleship was going to be and Chief of Staff to Mayor Art Agnos. Prior to his resurrected in Bayview–Hunters Point, both Agnos position as Deputy Mayor, he served as the Chief and Everhart vehemently protested. Even though

38 CHANGEMAKERS Claude T. Everhart served as Everhart went on to become a Vice President at Waste Management of Alameda County and a Deputy Mayor during the Art political consultant, helping former Oakland May- or and San Francisco City Assessor Agnos administration. Doris Ward. His consultancy continues to this day. Everhart’s legacy also continues in the form of the resurrection was projected to increase employ- Jelani House, a San Francisco-based rehabilitation ment in the area and increase revenues by about $2.2 center originally meant for mothers who strug- million annually, the duo joined the community in gle with cocaine addiction. Mayor Agnos’s wife expressing concerns about gentrifi cation. They also founded the program, naming it after Everhart’s demanded that the Hunters Point shipyard be thor- late son, Jelani. Jelani House is internationally rec- oughly cleaned of toxics and other health hazards at ognized, and was even visited by . the site. They wanted to look at the investment more Now known as Jelani Inc., the program off ers a scrupulously to understand its impact on the com- wide range of counseling and education for single munity of Bayview–Hunters Point. fathers, mothers, and families. In addition, during Everhart’s term, controversy Everhart’s image remains on the walls of the arose in both the San Francisco Police Department Ella Hill Hutch Community Center to honor all he and the San Francisco Fire Department, with claims has done for San Franciscans. of racial harassment and discrimination. Everhart and Agnos both took the allegations seriously and —Sophia Tarantino and Sawyer Wolf launched extensive investigations. In concluding the investigation, Everhart demanded that both depart- Works Cited ments pay for the physical, emotional, and mental abuse suff ered by people of color in both depart- Agnos, Art. “How 5 SF Mayors Tackled Homeless ments. As Agnos’s term came to an end, Everhart ness.” SF Chronicle, 26 June 2016. “Chart 12/22/1989.” SF Chronicle, 22 Dec. 1989, p. 8. ended his career in governmental public service, but Gordon, Bill. “Unions’ Defi cit Plan Turns Off Agnos.” noted that he was “most proud of his role in cleaning SF Chronicle, 14 Mar. 1988, p. 2. up the drug-plagued Oceanview playground, initiat- Kilduff , Marshall. “Mayor Joins Battle for Shoreline ing the Mayor’s offi ce of Youth and Children’s Ser- Park.” SF Chronicle, 7 Dec. 1976, p. 28. vices, passing legislation that divested San Francisco’s “McDonald’s Employees OK Talks.” SF Chronicle, retirement system from investments in South Africa, 23 Feb. 1973, p. 6. building a supermarket in Hunters Point, increasing Fagan, Kevin. “ Strike Is Off —For Now.” SF the number of minority fi rms doing business with Chronicle, 2 July 1997, pg A13. the City, and stopping the basing of the battleship Herscher, Elaine. “More Agnos Aides Won’t Have Jobs Missouri, which he said would have gentrifi ed the Under Mayor Jordan.” SF Chronicle, 31 Dec. 1991. “Sober Moms End their Odyssey.” SF Examiner, 13 June primarily black neighborhood” (Herscher). 1993, p. 22.

39 RICHARD IMAGE

FINIS COURTESY

OF

JOSEF

NORRIS

ICHARD FINIS became San Francisco’s fi rst RAfrican American full-time police offi cer in Richard Finis as depicted on the Inspiration mural. 1947. In the 1940s, black police offi cers in San Francisco were often temporarily employed to ful- fi ll the shortage of offi cers who had gone overseas and biased. Unfortunately, the racial taunting and to fi ght in War World II or serve in the military discrimination within the institution was a trend after the war (Rojas). When Finis got sworn into that many African American offi cers faced. duty, he found that his white colleagues harbored , a San Francisco police of- racial prejudice against all black people in the de- fi cer from 1960–1970, stated that it was not un- partment. Richard Finis’s 16-year career as an offi - common for white offi cers to refer to their black cer sparked the organization of black offi cers who coworkers using racial slurs (Dulaney). Richard demanded respect and fairness for black police of- Finis eventually became fed up with his discrimi- fi cers in San Francisco. natory peers and quit the San Francisco Police De- During the post-war era, black offi cers were partment (SFPD) in 1963. Finis’s assignments were looked down upon by their white colleagues and unfair and he especially disliked being ordered were subjected “to the worst details,” while rarely to exclusively patrol the Hunter’s Point area, San being promoted within the division (Dulaney). Francisco’s majority black district. Richard felt that Finis’s brother-in-law, Levi Harper, explained the SFPD was trying to hide him from the public that “When Finis came on, he caught hell. . . . because of his status as the fi rst African American None of the white offi cers would work with him. police offi cer in the city (Dulaney). It just got to be too much pressure, so he quit.” After Finis quit, black offi cers refl ected on Fi- According to author W. Marvin Dulaney in his nis’s treatment and created an association within book Black Police in America, another reason for his the SFPD to address racism and harassment of resigning was that Finis’ assignments were unfair black people in the workplace. Led by Offi cer Hen-

40 CHANGEMAKERS In 1947, Richard Finis served Before moving to the San Francisco District Attorney’s Offi ce in the early 1960s, Richard Finis as San Francisco’s fi rst African endured harassment and discrimination from his colleagues and the San Francisco Police Depart- American Police Offi cer. He ment. However, without his sacrifi ce, the advance- worked for SFPD for 16 years ment of equality and fairness for African American people in the SFPD might not have been started. before moving to the Richard Finis’s commitment to San Francisco and San Francisco District will be remembered for generations to come. Attorney’s Offi ce. —Elijah Williams and Olivia Walker Works Cited ry Williams and Richard Hongisto, the Offi cers for Justice (OFJ) organization was created to alleviate ABC7 Archive. “SF’s Offi cers for Justice comes out the racist environment of SFPD and to demand against Tasers.” ABC7 San Francisco, https://abc 7news.com/archive/9038055/. fair career advancements for black offi cers. After Dulaney, W. Marvin. Black Police in America. Indiana suing the city, the SFPD, and the Civil Service University Press, 1997. Commission, the OFJ was successful in “mandat- Johnson, Clarence. “Black Offi cers Say Racism Still ing the hiring of minority offi cers on a quota basis Problem in S.F.” SF Chronicle, 25 Feb. 1993 . . . and obtained a consent decree ordering the de- Rojas, Aurelio. “Mourners Recall S.F. Cop Who Broke partment to promote minority offi cers to the rank Color Line.” SFGate, 30 Jan. 2012 of sergeant, regardless of their position on the civil Williams, Rodney. “About Us.” Offi cers for Justice, service eligible list” (Dulaney). The OFJ state that http://offi cersforjustice.org/about-us.html. this lawsuit helped change “the face of the San Francisco Police Department” and has contribut- ed toward there being much more diversity in the ranks of the SFPD (Williams). Since its inception, the OFJ has taken politi- cal action against certain issues. For example, the organization sent a letter to Mayor Ed Lee stating their disapproval of increasing the use of tasers in the department. The OFJ believed that the tasers would be disproportionately “used on certain class- es of people like drug abusers, mentally disabled, and minorities” (ABC7).

41 IMAGE

THOMAS COURTESY

OF

FLEMING MILLARD

MAX / SF

CHRONICLE

HOMAS FLEMING will be remembered as an in- / POLAIRS Tdividual who devoted his life to combating rac- ism through use of a free and fair press. Fleming was able to educate the people of San Francisco and the nation on black history and black community events and also demonstrated the importance of in- cluding black voices in the press. Throughout his ca- Journalist Thomas Fleming in 1997. reer, Fleming would meet with important leaders of the civil rights movement, including Martin Luther portive of the General Strike of 1934, which was King, Jr., W.E.B. Du Bois, Justice Thurgood Mar- the result of dissatisfaction in worker’s conditions. shall, , and Carlton B. Goodlett. Fleming later began running an independent radio Growing up, Thomas lived with his grand- show, Negroes in the News, and writing the “Activ- father in Jacksonville, Florida, and later with his ities Among Negroes” column of the Oakland Tri- uncle in New York City. Then, at the age of 11, bune. This column ran for fi ve years and contained Fleming’s family sent him to Chico, California, to an 86 -part, comprehensive series on black history. live with his mother. Fleming then landed an interview with Frank Lo- Fleming moved to San Francisco after gradu- gan, a local businessman who was releasing a ating high school in 1926 and worked as a bellhop, new newspaper called The Reporter and was search- waiter, and cook. In a 2004 interview with the Chron- ing for an editor. After the interview, Logan knew icle, Fleming said, “I thought I’d be a cook my whole that Fleming was his man and helped launch Flem- life.” However, mass layoff s at the of the Great ing on a path of professional, paid journalism. Depression pushed Fleming into the realm of the Fleming worked for years at The Reporter and press—something atypical for a member of the Af- gained local fame for his 1944 post-WWII press con- rican American community in the 1930s. ference with Mayor Roger D. Lapham. In a breach Fleming began his career in the media as an un- of protocol, Lapham asked Fleming a loaded ques- paid writer for The Spokesman. He was put into the tion: “Mr. Fleming, how long do you think these col- position of writing for a newspaper that was sup- ored people are going to be here?” Mr. Fleming, be-

42 CHANGEMAKERS Thomas Fleming, legendary of the early 2000s. He was most vocal about his disdain for Condoleezza Rice, former President journalist for The Sun-Reporter, George W. Bush, and former Governor . Even after retiring, Fleming nev- penned more than 7,600 er stopped being vocal in his struggle against prej- articles during his lifetime. udice, injustice, and racism. Although Thomas Fleming was a bachelor his ing the professional that he was, responded in a cool whole life and never had children of his own, the and collected manner stating, “Mr. Mayor, do you community of the Western Addition proved to be know how permanent the Golden Gate is? Well, the his family. He was an incredibly sociable, beloved black population is just as permanent.” Fleming’s man who was adopted by countless families. In his activism continued through the 60s as a result of life-long eff ort to combat racism through the press, the confl ict in Vietnam. Through his articles, Flem- Fleming covered nine political conventions and ing made the point that the black community was penned more than 7,600 articles. In terms of the deemed skillful enough to drive tanks and fi ght for impact of his legacy, Fleming said it best: “I felt that the country, but not skillful enough to work on all the blacks had to have an editorial voice. And I think ports of San Francisco. The Jim Crow-esque hiring that’s why black papers are in existence all over the practices present in San Francisco enraged Fleming. country. If the white papers covered all the diff erent Fleming also had a personal friendship with facets of black society the way they do white society, Carlton B. Goodlett which resulted in the creation there wouldn’t be a black paper in existence.” of The Sun–Reporter. Goodlett moved to San Fran- cisco, at Fleming’s request, and invested in The Re- —Ian Duke and Kendra Wharton porter. In a heated poker match against the wealthy white owner of the newspaper, The Sun, Goodlett Works Cited won all rights to the paper. He then decided to merge The Sun and The Reporter, creating the well- Carl T. Hall, “Thomas Fleming—Columnist, Editor.” SF known Sun–Reporter. In fact, he eff ectively used this Gate, 23 Nov. 2006, paper as a platform for his civil rights struggles. Chinn, Paul. “A Titan of Bay Area Newspapers.” SF Gate, 28 July 1997. Fleming wrote and edited for the Sun–Reporter until Fleming, Thomas C. “Refl ections on Black History.” The his retirement in 1997. Columbus Free Press, 4 June 1999. Fleming remained an active voice in San Fran- Millard, Max. “Thomas Fleming—Sun-Reporter Editor.” cisco until his passing in 2006. As he himself put 28 July 1997. it in a 2004 SF Gate interview, “I’m too damn old Millard, Max. “Thomas Fleming The Way It Was: 1912–1926.” 1998. to tell lies.” As an informed, respected community Nolte, Carl. “A Titan of Bay Area Newspapers / At 96, member of the Western Addition, Fleming keen- Thomas Fleming Still Making Deadlines and Fighting ly criticized the inadequacies of the government Racism.” SF Gate, 11 April 2004

43 H. WELTON IMAGE

FLYNN COURTESY

OF

SFMTA . WELTON FLYNN may not have been a San HFrancisco native, but he was extremely infl u- ential in shaping the city’s legacy. Originally from South Carolina, Flynn moved to San Francisco H. Welton Flynn after returning from World War II. He attended Golden Gate College and graduated with a degree PUC until 1991 when San Franciscans voted to es- in Accounting. He then proceeded to open his own tablish a separate public agency for matters related fi rm in 1949, H. Welton Flynn Accountants and to Muni. This was the birth of the San Francis- Auditors, now headed by his son, Welton C. Flynn. co Municipal Transit Authority. H. Welton Flynn Once considered the “New Moscone” by the was subsequently called upon to lead the SFMTA’s San Francisco Chronicle, H. Welton Flynn fi rst entered board as its fi rst president. He was also voted in as San Francisco’s political scene in the 1960s when the fi rst African American chairman for the San he served on San Francisco’s Civil Grand Jury, as Francisco Convention and Visitors Bureau. well as the San Francisco Committee on Crime. In Flynn was committed to humanely handling 1970, Mayor Joseph Alioto appointed Flynn as the the challenges that faced Muni. For example, when fi rst African American commissioner to serve on the PUC called for armed Muni cops because of the Public Utilities Commission. The PUC over- teenage violence on Muni, Flynn sought a diff erent sees the distribution and handling of water, waste- approach. He insisted on spending $2 million on water, and electric power supplies of San Francisco, helping disadvantaged teenagers fi nd employment Alameda, San Mateo, and Santa Clara counties. rather than funding a “beefed-up police security At the time, the PUC also oversaw other public ser- force.” Following his proposal, Mayor Moscone an- vices such as San Francisco’s Municipal Railway nounced that $1.6 million would fund crime-fi ght- (Muni). An advocate of affi rmative action, in 1971 ing programs. Flynn’s advocacy for affi rmative ac- Flynn secured funding need to create a pilot pro- tion never faded as Muni appointed Curtis E. Green gram for minority contracting, the fi rst Minority in 1974 as the fi rst African American general man- and Disadvantaged Business Enterprise. Nurturing ager of a major US transit system. its development, it would become the gold stan- Flynn was also involved in the San Francisco dard for minority contracting. Flynn served on the Redevelopment Agency. The agency had reserved

44 CHANGEMAKERS H. Welton Flynn served on the the parking garage, which had been set to open in September of that year. Public Utilities Commission Flynn was commended for his devotion to pub- and for the San Francisco lic issues and his advocacy for marginalized ethnic and racial groups, specifi cally in reference to in- Municipal Transit Authority. creasing the number of minority hires. H. Welton Flynn passed away on March 21, 2016, and left a two blocks specifi cally for Flynn and a small coali- legacy that helped craft San Francisco life today. tion of prominent African American investors who operated under the banner of his construction com- —Juliet Baires and Vivian Talamantes pany, Pyramid Development Company. Residents and merchants would be able to buy shares of the Works Cited new development project, which would become the Fillmore Center shopping complex. This project “A Six-Acre Tribute.” S.F. Chronicle, 22 Jul.1989, p. C11. would impact small business owners in the black “Added minority role asked for airport.” SF Chronicle, neighborhoods. The Western Addition Project Area 20 Aug. 1981. Committee (WAPAC) led by Arnold Townsend, rose “COMTO Mourns the Passing of H. Welton Flynn” to oppose the new construction, claiming it wouldn’t Conference of Minority Transportation Offi cials, 29 March, help the community. 2016. “Driving Equality.” Market Street Railway, 7Aug. 2008. In 1981 San Francisco had a 45 percent mi- “H.W. Flynn New Head of City PUC.” SF Chronicle, 24 nority population. As president of the Black Lead- Jan. 1973, p. 2. ership Forum, Flynn focused on initiating more King, John. “H. Welton Flynn—longtime civic leader.” minority-operated businesses at the airport. It was SF Chronicle, 28 Mar. 2016, p. C4. important to him as Public Utilities Commissioner Liebert, Larry “Purchase of Site Approved” SF to have diversity among the contractors and con- Chronicle, July 2, 1975, p. 9. cessionaires at the airport. In his eff orts to support “Minority fi rm to build project.” SF Chronicle, 13 June minority projects, he approved a proposal submit- 1983. ted by Central City Developers Inc., a minority “Plan to sell shares in Fillmore center.” SF Chronicle, 18 owned company, to build an eight-story senior citi- Aug. 1975. p.12. “PUC calls for armed Muni cops.” SF Chronicle, 24 zen apartment complex. Nov. 1976. Flynn received many awards during his time in Watson, Lloyd. “New Chairman for S.F. Convention offi ce, though none as special as the dedication of and Visitors Bureau.” SF Chronicle, 22 May 1992, a $26 million, six-acre Muni bus garage located in p. B3. the Mission District of San Francisco. In 1989 Fly- nn greeted ceremony attendees and thanked them for having come to witness the grand unveiling of

45 TERRY FRANCOIS PUBLIC ERRY A. FRANCOIS was a civil rights lawyer

Twho made history as chapter president for the DOMAIN NAACP and as the fi rst African American man to

be appointed to San Francisco’s Board of Super- IMAGE

visors in 1964. Although Francois earned a prominent place in the history of the Fillmore, he was originally Terry A. Francois in the 1960s. from New Orleans. Francois was born in 1921 to Leona Keller and Terry Arthur Francois (An- cestry.com). Francois attended Xavier University American History in the West). After completing his of Louisiana to earn a bachelor’s degree in 1940. studies, he established himself as a prestigious at- He then attended Atlanta University, graduating torney and became a prominent defender of civil with a master’s degree in business administration rights in the Western Addition. On September 15, before serving as a Platoon Sergeant for the Unit- 1963, he was arrested along with 10 others for par- ed States Marine Corps during the Second World ticipating in a sit-in protest against a local real estate War (Schiller). Upon his return, he moved to Oak- agency for racial discrimination (Los Angeles Times). land where he married Marion Le Blanc. They His dedication to the progression of civil rights went on to raise four sons and one daughter. One and racial equality eventually would land him the of their children, Gary Anthony Francois, grew position of president of the San Francisco chapter up to be an infl uential San Francisco architect of the NAACP. Prior to inheriting this role, Fran- who worked on the Mayor’s quarters in City Hall cois was a valuable lawyer for the NAACP working and the international terminal in the San Francis- alongside then-president Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett. co International Airport. While acting as a lawyer for the NAACP, Fran- In 1949 Terry Francois moved to San Francis- cois fi led lawsuits to combat discrimination against co and received a law degree from the University African Americans in housing, jobs, and education. of California Hastings College of the Law (African He also advocated for the appointment of more

46 CHANGEMAKERS Terry Francois was a successful Francisco home (Halstuk). At the time he was sur- vived by his wife of 42 years, Marion Le Blanc, as laywer for the NAACP, a well as his fi ve children and six grandchildren (Los leader in San Francisco Angeles Times). His legacy of living “a life of work for civil rights,” as stated in his obituary in the June civil rights, and the fi rst African 10, 1989, edition of the San Francisco Chronicle, con- tinues to live on today. A one mile stretch of our American member of the San shoreline, just south of AT&T Park (now Oracle Francisco Board of Supervisors. Park) and McCovey Cove, was named Terry A. Francois Boulevard to memorialize this important black San Franciscans to public offi ce positions (Los community leader. Angeles Times). In 1952, when Francois only had two years of legal experience, he sued the San Francis- —Sage Stefanick co Housing Authority over claims of racial bias in the application process for a new housing project Works Cited in the case Banks v. Housing Authority of San Francisco. “African American History in the West: Francois, Discrimination in the job market was an issue Terry.” The Black Past: Remembered and important to Francois. In frustration, he once re- Reclaimed. 2018. marked, “In San Francisco a Negro can eat almost Banks v. Housing Authority of San Francisco. 1952, p. 38 anywhere, but will have trouble fi nding a job to en- Halstuk, Martin. “Ex-Supervisor Terry Francois Dies able him to pay for his meal” (Los Angeles Times). of Cancer.” SF Chronicle, 10 June 1989. This dissatisfaction with the prejudice existing in “T.A. Francois; Rights Lawyer, Ex-S.F. Supervisor.” the job market energized him to use his power as Los Angeles Times, 11 June 1989. part of the NAACP legal team to create a fair em- “Terry Francois.” Ancestry.com. 2018. ployment practices ordinance for San Francisco in “Terry Francois.” FoundSF. 2018. Schiller, Reuel. “Was Terry Francois Ahead of His 1957 (Los Angeles Times). Time?” Legal Blog Spot. 4 May 2015. One of Francois’ more celebrated achieve- RootsWeb an Ancestry.com Community. “Terry ments was his appointment by Mayor John Shelley Francois Ahnentafel.” Terry Francois Third as the very fi rst black member of San Francisco’s Generation Cahn. 2018. Board of Supervisors (Los Angeles Times). Francois served on the San Francisco Board of Supervisors for 14 years, from 1964 to 1978, when he resigned to return to his private law practice (SFGate). Following a fi ve-year struggle with cancer Francois passed away on June 9, 1989, in his San

47 WAYLAND C. FULLER IMAGE

COURTESY AYLAND C. FULLER was a son, father, phar- macist, and community leader. Fuller com-

W mitted his adult life to helping underprivileged OF

SF

communities and spent many years assisting the GATE people of Bayview–Hunters Point. He lived a quiet and philosophical life and his legacy lives on in the communities that he assisted. Wayland C. Fuller at a pharmacy awards dinner. Fuller was born in Texas on March 10, 1916. From a young age, a sense of kindness and the gen- eral need to help others was instilled in him. Full- er also realized that he would have to work harder faced much diffi culty in establishing his practice. because he was an African American man working Fuller’s daughter, Wayzel, remembers that “he in a white man’s world. Throughout his adolescent could not fi nd a job as a pharmacist in San Fran- educational experience, he was known as the hard- cisco because he was black.” She went on to say, est working student in his classes and was the fi rst “when he tried to fi nd work, they wouldn’t hire him in his family to go to college. He graduated from or told him he’d have to drive the truck fi rst” (SF Bishop College in 1938 in his home state of Texas Gate). However, Fuller would not let racism come and received master’s degrees from the University in between him and his love for medicine and he of Iowa in organic chemistry and pharmacy. He would later attain a position as the fi rst African later moved to Michigan to become a high school American pharmacist at the Shumate’s pharma- chemistry teacher and soon after met his wife, cy in San Francisco on the corner of Fillmore and Hayzel Fuller. Jackson streets. After visiting his mother-in-law in San Francis- Fuller always strived to benefi t the communi- co, he fell in love with the city and decided to move ty with every ounce of energy that he had. “He there with his wife and two daughters. Given the was always a community activist,” said George prevalence of racism in the United States, Fuller Davis, executive director of the Bayview–Hunters

48 CHANGEMAKERS Award-winning pharmacist Fuller later opened his own pharmacy called Fuller Pharmacy. He was able to create a strong Wayland Fuller served the connection with the community and was able to run the business without the burdens of hierarchi- Bayview–Hunters Point cal control. Fuller also taught as an assistant profes- neighborhood for more sor at UCSF’s School of Pharmacy. Fuller died in his home in February of 2002. than 50 years. He is remembered for his hard work and service to his community. Though professionally known as a Point Multipurpose Senior Center. Davis added: pharmacist, businessman, and teacher, he will also “Health care, housing, anything that involved the be remembered as a kind and generous civil ser- betterment of Bayview–Hunters Point, he was in- vant who worked to change the Bayview–Hunters volved in. This was his heart. He slept somewhere Point and the city of San Francisco. Fuller was also else, but he lived in Bayview–Hunters Point” (SF a respected family man and was loved by his wife Gate). Fuller was a member of the Bayview Rotary and children. Wayzel Fuller said of her parents’ Club and Bayview Democratic Club. He was also relationship, “I never heard them have one argu- a campaigner for the battleship USS Missouri at ment. He was a perfect gentleman. He was one of Hunters Point, protested the closure of Wells Far- a kind” (SF Gate). go’s Bayview branch and fought for independent Winnifried Noble said of Wayland Fuller, “His pharmacies in San Francisco. license was active until the end. He would say, ‘I Fuller was a respected voice in the business will never let it expire. I worked too hard as an community in the Bayview–Hunters Point neigh- African American man.’ ” Fuller’s legacy survives borhood and would sometimes voice his opinion through the example that he set for others in his regarding political representatives. Fuller said of community and through the barriers that he broke, the election of San Francisco’s fi rst African Ameri- allowing more people the opportunity to succeed. can Mayor Willie Brown: “He’s going to use all the tools at his command and probably create some —Ya’qub Elmi tools that will help businesses, not just give lip ser- Works Cited vice to employment, but fi nd ways to implement some jobs” (SF Gate). Itow, Laurie. “From Welfare to Restaurateur.” Throughout his time in San Francisco, Full- SF Chronicle, 11 June 1982. er was a voice for many people. According to his “UCSF School of Pharmacy Bulletin.” 8 May 2017. daughter Wayzel, “he would take prescriptions to Yollin, Patricia. “Longtime Pharmacist Wayland Carr seniors’ houses who were disabled. He would deliv- Fuller Dies.” SFGate, 9 May 2008. er them himself ” (SF Gate).

49 IMAGE

ERNEST

COURTESY

OF

J GAINES

. KNOW

LOUISIANA

RNEST J. GAINES was born on January 15, 1933. EHis childhood in the South inspired many of Celebrated novelist Ernest J. Gaines. his well-known novels including The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman (1971) and A Lesson Before Dying ager during the civil rights movement inspired his (1993). His distinguished career as a novelist has writing and motivated him to write stories inspired earned him various accolades: the Guggenheim by the black culture which he grew up in. Foundation Fellowship in 1972, the MacArthur After graduating high school in 1951, Gaines at- Foundation Fellowship in 1993, and the Nation- tended Vallejo Junior College in 1953 and was draft- al Book Critics Circle Award for Fiction in 1999. ed into the army upon graduation. After serving two Moreover, throughout his career, Gaines has been years, he earned a bachelor’s degree in literature at an active philanthropist, recognizing aspirational San Francisco State University. He published “The writings from young black prodigy authors and Turtles,” a short story in SFSU’s magazine, Trans- awarding them with fi nancial scholarship. fer. This narrative later earned him his fi rst substan- Gaines spent his childhood on his family’s Riv- tial writing recognition: Stanford’s Wallace Stegner er Lake Plantation in Oscar, Louisiana. He and his Creative Writing Fellowship in 1957. twelve siblings were raised mostly by his aunt. As a After spending many years in Stanford’s class- boy, Gaines would spend half the year working in rooms, Gaines was fi nally rewarded with the suc- the fi elds, and the other half going to school. During cess one of his most famous novels, The Autobiog- this time, he formed an appreciation for the tough raphy of Miss Jane Pittman. This novel, known for women who lived in his community. narrating nearly one-hundred years of a black wom- In 1948 fi fteen-year-old Gaines moved to Valle- an’s experiences, was drawn from the strong women jo, California, to live with his mother and stepfather. who ran his community. At St. Augustine’s High School, he developed a pas- Steadily increasing in his reputation as a young sion for learning and reading. Because of the lack novelist, Gaines fl ew back and forth between the of African American representation in the books he Bay Area and Louisiana. While he was infl uenced read, he was never able to truly “see himself ” in the by San Francisco’s bohemian era and his time predominantly white narratives. His time as a teen- abroad as a soldier, ultimately he found that his best

50 CHANGEMAKERS writing came from refl ecting on his time and the Today he and his wife live on a six-acre estate history of the south. In an interview, Gaines once in the same town where he grew up. He has re- confessed: “I can’t write about San Francisco! But I stored his old schoolhouse, chapel, and his family can write about that little postage stamp of land in cemetery of fi ve generations. In 2000, Gaines was Louisiana” (“Reader Resources”). Nevertheless, his named a Chevalier of France’s Order of Arts and experience as an African American man living in Letters and in 2013 Gaines was awarded the Na- San Francisco during the Black Power movement tional Medal of Arts. gave him a diff erent perspective in his writing. In 2007, Gaines and his wife, Diane, estab- After having received the Guggenheim Foun- lished, with generous donations from the Baton dation fellowship in 1972 for In My Father’s House Rouge Foundation, the Ernest J. Gaines Award for (1978) and A Gathering of Old Men (1983), Gaines, Literary Excellence to inspire, recognize, and honor like fellow literary master James Baldwin, was con- young African American authors in fi ction. Gaines demned for not being much of an activist or a radi- additionally donates, with the help of the donors to cal. The Black Panther Party even criticized him for Baton Rouge Foundation, to various schools in and not showing enough black pride in his works, but in around Baton Rouge County. In his latest work The Gaines’s eyes, he extended the message of the black Tragedy of Brady Sims, he writes of “the painful story community through his books. In Conversations with of a man who tries to keep the peace in a racially Ernest Gaines he was quoted saying that “When Bull divided town by enforcing his own brand of justice.” Connor turned the hoses on the marchers, I just said Gaines continues to write from a thought-provoking to myself, ‘write a better paragraph.’ ” This is not perspective and remains a highly infl uential author. to say that he was uncaring about the rights of his community—not in the least—it was just that for —Licette Renteria, Meghan Grant, and Phia Rau Halleen Gaines, his power to shape a movement lay in the power of his pen. Works Cited From the 1970s to the 1990s Gaines would Bridges, Larry. “A Conversation with Ernest J. Gaines” 2018. continue to fl y back and forth between the Bay “Ernest J. Gaines.” Lizzie Skurnick Books, 2017. Area and Louisiana, until he met his wife, Dianne “Ernest J. Gaines.” Know Louisiana. 2018. Saulney in 1993. After deciding to settle down, “Ernest J. Gaines Biography” Academy of Achievement. Gaines began teaching at the University of Louisi- 06. Nov. 2017. ana, Lafayette, in 1983 and was a Writer-in-Resi- Gaines, Ernest J., and John Lowe. Conversations with Ernest Gaines. University Press of Mississippi, 1995. dence at the University from 1981 to 2004. Living “Reader Resources: A Lesson Before Dying.” National and teaching in Louisiana, Gaines wrote his most Endowment for the Arts. 2018. successful book was A Lesson Before Dying, which has Tolly, Victor. “Gaines, Ernest James (1933- ).” The Black been nominated for a Pulitzer Prize in fi ction and Past: Remembered and Reclaimed. 2018 won the National Book Critics Circle Award.

51 ROTEA

GILFORD IMAGE

COURTESY

OF

PAT

M

OTEA GILFORD was born in 1927 in Willis, c ARRON Texas. When he was a child, his family re-

R located to the Fillmore District in San Francisco where he would live the rest of his life. Gilford’s main objective throughout his career was connect- ing with the black community and making sure that unity was being created. Thus, Gilford grew Rotea Gilford was a respected member of the SFPD. up to be a San Francisco police offi cer and pre- sented himself as a great example for the African American youth in his community. covery and solved a particularly diffi cult case in- Before joining the police department, Gilford volving a Muni bus driver that was shot and killed attended San Francisco Polytechnic High School during the uprisings in San Francisco following the and also graduated from San Francisco City Col- Martin Luther King, Jr., assassination. Gilford was lege. Gilford was also very athletic and played for also widely recognized for solving a case in which the San Francisco City College championship bas- a serial killer was targeting only homosexual men ketball team in 1948. Following his education, he in San Francisco in 1973. Gilford showed that he worked as a bridge toll taker and later a Muni bus respected people. Through his inves- driver. tigative work, he showed how deeply he cared about Throughout his career as a police offi cer, the liberties of the LGBTQ community, the youth, Gilford made numerous friends, including politi- and the African American community. cians Willie Brown and , both of He was well known for his role as a leader of whom would later serve as mayor. Gilford was also the team of investigators who solved the “Zebra” deemed executive director of the Mayor’s Council killings in 1974, alongside Prentice Sanders. The on Criminal Justice by Mayor George Moscone. “Zebra” killings were a series of racially moti- Gilford worked to support four San Francisco may- vated in which a total of 14 people lost oral administrations. their lives. This caused tension in the area and In 1968, Gilford made a ground-breaking dis- allowed the racial profi ling of African American

52 CHANGEMAKERS Rotea Gilford, who served mission. According to Mayor Brown, Gilford loved recreational activities and sports his whole life. both the San Francisco Police Gilford even reportedly taught Mayor Diane Feinstein about football in particular, and they end- Department and as Deputy ed up attending numerous 49ers games together, Mayor was a “forceful including Super Bowls. Gilford coached even after he retired, choosing advocate of black youth.” to help youth by off ering them healthy alternatives. Rotea James Gilford passed away on March 14th, 1998. Gilford believed in the youth of the men to increase within the community. When Gil- community and wanted to do all that he could to ford and his team declared Dwight Stallings as a encourage them in a positive direction. He believed suspect, Gilford was confi dent in his belief that incarcerated youths deserved to be provided that Stallings was guilty. Gilford said, “I know he with proper counseling and knew that they could bought ammunition [used in the shootings]; I don’t become productive citizens if given the chance. know if he ever pulled the trigger, but I know he Gilford’s impact on black police offi cers in the city was involved” (Zamora). Gilford’s contribution to was monumental. According to homicide detective the investigation helped solve the case. Napoleon Hendrix, Gilford “was the lightning rod According to records in the San Francisco for black investigators. He set the standard that we Public Library, he was one of only two black police follow.” Hendrix continued to explain, “He gave offi cers running for the position of sheriff in 1978. his all. He will be sorely missed. He aff ected a lot Gilford was known as a “forceful advocate of of people in this city” (Magagnini). black youth” (Sward). He recognized that there was a signifi cant increase in the amount of inmates —Kristen Williams, Ceejay Garcia, and Zachary James living in overcrowded jails and other correctional facilities. Gilford was the leader of a delegation of Works Cited youth advocates and notably “urged the court to release 30 youths from the lockup within the next DelVecchio, Rick. “Court Takes a Hard Look At S.F.’s Youth Jail.” SF Chronicle, Six Star ed., 19 June 1989, two months and place them in the care of volun- p. 2. teer counselors under court supervision” (DelVec- Lewis, Gregory. “Rotea Gilford, Former Deputy chio). Gilford also investigated the SF Youth Guid- Mayor, Dies at 70.” SFGate, 16 Mar. 1998. ance Center, located at 375 Woodside Avenue, as Magagnini, Stephen. “S.F. Youth Center Faces U.S. the center had allegations of abuse, violence, and Probe,” SF Chronicle, Six Star ed., 5 Apr. 1985, p. 2. overcrowding. Sward, Susan. “Rotea Gilford—Advocate for Youth.” Gilford was also selected by Mayor Willie SF Chronicle, 17 Mar. 1998. Brown to serve on the Recreation and Parks Com-

53

IMA

G

E

DANNY C

OURTESY

OF

GLOVER MISSISSIPPI

FRE

EDOM

SUMMER ANIEL LEBERN GLOVER was born on July 22,

D1946, in San Francisco. While Glover is pri- marily known as an actor, he has also earned nu- merous accolades working as an activist. In addition to his role in Lethal Weapon (1987–88) and The Color Actor, activist. speaker. Purple (1985), he’s played dozens characters in both shows and movies throughout his career. Some of his more recent achievements include the In 1968, Glover participated in the historic fi ve- NAACP Image Awards in 2014 and the Black En- month strike that resulted in the establishment of tertainment Television (BET) Humanitarian Award the College of Ethnic Studies at SFSU. On the 46th in 2004 (IMDb). For his work social activism, he re- anniversary of the student-led strike, Glover gave a ceived the NAACP President’s Award in 2018 and speech at SFSU and stated that “We were especially the NAACP Chairman Award in 2003. He was ap- observant that societal relationships were refl ections pointed as a goodwill ambassador for the UN De- of history, and we were writing our own history of velopment Programme in 1988 and an ambassador institutional transformation, but inside and outside for the UNICEF division in 2004. Glover has also of this institution, we understood that education worked in places like Africa, the Caribbean, and had the power to recalibrate our experiences and South America (UN). His advocacy has been recog- to engage us in a process of struggle.” In 2016, he nized all over the world, but his eff orts initially began also supported SFSU students on a hunger strike de- in San Francisco. manding more resources for the College of Ethnic Raised in the Haight–Ashbury neighborhood, Studies (Kai-Hwa). Glover attended George Washington High School in Glover was awarded an honorary degree and the Richmond District and graduated in 1965. He also the Presidential Medal of SFSU for his “lifelong went on to study economics at SFSU (Cleary). At involvement in programs promoting education” (Po- SFSU, he became interested in the community issues lidora). He also received an Honorary Doctorate that faced the Western Addition, specifi cally those from the University of San Francisco in 2014. regarding urban renewal and gentrifi cation. Before becoming a well-known activist, Glover

54 CHANGEMAKERS began his career as a Model Cities Program Man- country’s children. He also gave a presentation in Ja- ager for San Francisco’s Offi ce of Community De- maica to share ideas on Caribbean philanthropy and velopment from 1972 to 1977 (HistoryMakers). He meet with members of non-governmental organiza- also became involved with the Western Addition tions to discuss the issue of HIV/AIDS and the im- Community Organization (WACO) and counseled pacts it has on children. Additionally, he chaired the renters who were about to be displaced (Hill). In the board of the Africa Unite Symposium in 2005 and 70s, Glover was a part of the Black Panther Breakfast visited Ethiopia to participate in a benefi t concert for for Children program which was later adapted as a Africa Unite. government program (Hill). In 2013, he earned the 2013 Audrey Hepburn By age 28, Glover had started taking acting classes Humanitarian Award (UN). Glover, however, does at Shelton Actors Lab (Cleary). After realizing this not do what he does for recognition—his passions su- as his second passion, Glover began training at the percede any awards or accolades he has earned, and Black Actors Workshop of the American Conser- his real life actions demonstrate his true character. vatory Theatre. His Broadway debut was in Athol Fugard’s Master Harold . . . and the Boys, which brought —Meghan Grant and Nell Bayliss him national fame. He was later cast in Places in the Heart which was nominated for the Academy Award Works Cited for Best Picture in 1985. In 2005, he combined his love for acting and fi lm making with activism and “Actor, Producer and Humanitarian Danny Glover to Receive the President’s Award.” NAACP Image Awards, co-founded Louverture Films in New York City. The 11 Jan. 2018. production company is dedicated to producing inde- Cleary, Don. “Glover, Danny (1946– ).” The Black Past: pendent fi lms of historical relevance, social purpose, Remembered and Reclaimed, 2018. commercial value and artistic integrity (Louverture “Danny Glover Biography.” The HistoryMakers, 20 Dec. 2015. “Danny Glover.” Freedom50.org. Films). Since its inception, the company has put out “Goodwill Ambassador.” UNICEF, 10 Oct. 2013. about 26 fi lms on topics such as Hurricane Katrina, “Glover, Danny.” IMDb, 2018. post-confl ict Nepal, and a movie about Afghanistan. Kai-Hwa, Frances. “Agreement Reached in SF Hunger Glover has also gotten the chance to make a fi rst- Strike to Fund Ethnic Studies.” NBC News. 1968. hand impact in several countries around the world. “Celebrating SFSU Strike, Danny Glover Refl ects on Student Struggle...” Liberation News, 23 Nov. 2015. After being appointed as a Development Programme Louverture Films, 2018. Goodwill Ambassador, Glover traveled to Haiti, Mali, “Messengers of Peace and Goodwill Ambassadors at the Namibia, Senegal, and South Africa to help fi ght United Nations—23 October 2000.” UN, 2018. against HIV/AIDS, poverty and disease. Since be- Polidora, Ligeia. “Actor and activist Danny Glover to be honored by SFSU.” SFSU, 1999. coming a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador in 2004, Polidora, Ligeia. “A Few among Many Notable SFSU.” SFSU, Glover visited Colombia on behalf of UNICEF’s call 2018. for private enterprises to support the welfare of the

55 DR

. IMAAGE

CARLTON COURTESY

OF

B. GOODLETT HISTORY

CENTER , SF

ARLTON B. GOODLETT was considered one of PUBLIC

Cthe most infl uential black men in San Francis- LIBRARY co for nearly forty years. He was born in Chipley, Florida, in 1914. Goodlett was a man of many talents: He was a doctor, publisher, political power broker, and a successful businessman. By the young Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett age of 23, he practiced as a pediatrician in the Fill- more District of San Francisco. Goodlett was also the personal physician for actor and activist Paul wanted to be civically involved and decided to pur- Robeson and sociologist W.E.B. Du Bois, both tow- sue a second career in journalism. By 1948, he was ering fi gures in the black community. a publisher for the Reporter Publishing Company Goodlett attended where which was in control of a number of black weekly he earned both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree newspapers. Goodlett, in partnership with Thomas in child psychology (SF Gate). As an undergraduate Fleming, also co-founded The Sun–Reporter. Good- student at Howard, Goodlett was highly involved in lett served as a publisher and editor for the highly campus activities and was student body president infl uential paper. The Sun–Reporter gave him a plat- and editor of the school paper (BlackPast.org). He form to promote social and economic change with- later moved to the Bay Area to attend the Univer- in the African American community. The news- sity of California, Berkeley, to receive a doctorate paper was known for the following motto: “That in child psychology (American Psychological Asso- no good cause shall lack a champion, evil shall not ciation). After earning this degree from UC Berke- thrive unopposed.” ley, Goodlett began teaching at West Virginia State Goodlett was also a leader in organizations like College and then received a degree in pediatrics the NAACP (serving as president in 1946), as well from Meharry Medical College (American Psycho- as World Peace Council, the National Black United logical Association). Fund, and the International Longshoremen’s and Goodlett was an excellent physician, but also the Warehouseman’s Union, Together with Phillip

56 CHANGEMAKERS Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett was a Reporter an irritant and me an ass. . . . But I never let them forget that democracy is a state of becoming. tireless physician, activist, and . . . I do what I see needs doing in my own way. If this makes me a gadfl y, I can’t help it.” Goodlett was publisher. unaff ected by his critics. He didn’t care what other people thought or had to say. He knew that what he Burton, he also established the San Francisco Young was doing was not only right, but necessary. Democrats. Goodlett did everything he could to put Dr. Goodlett was married to Willette Kilpatrick, an end to discrimination against black workers in and although they divorced in 1968, she continued San Francisco’s municipal railway. His activism even- to serve as half owner of the Sun–Reporter. Willette tually led to the appointment of the two fi rst African passed away in 1982 and Goodlett died some years American directors of the agency. later in 1997, during the fi rst term of Willie Brown’s His political struggles inspired him to run for the mayorship. Mayor Brown, at the time of Dr. Good- California governorship in 1966. One of the main lett’s loss, stated: “It may be the single biggest loss themes of his campaign was pushing society towards that the black community and the progressive com- racial equality. His opponent among left-leaning munity has ever suff ered in San Francisco. Dr. Good- voters was incumbent Democrat Edmund G. “Pat” lett was the pioneer on equal rights, equal opportuni- Brown. Goodlett criticized Brown as being insuffi - ty, political action, entrepreneurship, and economic ciently progressive, especially regarding civil rights. independence. He was truly a renaissance person.” Unfortunately, Goodlett wasn’t able to secure the Although Goodlett is no longer with us, his lega- nomination in the primary. cy will live on. In honor of his activism, writing, pub- Although Goodlett did not win, his campaign lishing, his role as physical,and role model, the ad- earned him much notoriety. In the years to come, Dr. dress of now bears his name: Goodlett became a major power broker in the local 1 Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett Place. and national Democratic party. Nationally, Good- lett was close with the Kennedy political machine. — Teresa Fishman, Kimberly McAllister, Ian Duke, and Locally, he was instrumental in the political rise of Matt Chiodo Mayor Willie Brown. He supported Willie L. Brown’s campaign for California Assembly in 1962, donating Works Cited $7,500, and naming Mr. Brown The Sun–Reporter Man of the Year. Although he lost his fi rst Assembly race, “Goodlett, Carlton B. (1914-1997).” BlackPast.org, 2018. Brown would end up winning in 1964 with the sup- “Goodlett, Carlton B.” The Columbia Encyclopedia, port of the black community that Dr. Goodlett helped 6th edition, Encyclopedia.com, 2018 galvanize. Hatfi eld, Larry D. “S.F. Civil Rights Maverick Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett Dies.” SFGate, 8 Feb. 2012. Although many people thought highly of Good- Sixty-two Heroes and Pioneers of the Western Addition. lett, some were critical of him and his news outlet. SF Cultural and Historical Society. 2000. In fact, Goodlett said, “A lot of people call the Sun–

57 IMAGE

DR. COURTESY

OF

ZURETTI AFRICAN

AMERICAN GOOSBY

HISTORICAL

AND WARDED the title of Man of the Year by The

ASun-Reporter in 1970, Dr. Zuretti Lee Goosby CULTURAL dedicated his life to being a community activist in

the Bay Area. Goosby was born October 19, 1922, SOCIETY in Oakland. He received his B.A. at the University Dr. Zuretti Goosby

of California, Berkeley, and D.D.S. at University of California, San Francisco. He worked as a dentist from sources other than property tax.” Dr. Goosby for about 30 years through his private practice. He entered the political scene in San Francisco during also served as Army Lieutenant in World War II and a key moment in history. He was the fi rst black a military dentist during the Vietnam War. He lat- member of San Francisco’s Board of Education. er found a passion for the public school system and Dr. Zuretti Goosby served on the Board of Ed- joined the San Francisco Board of Education. Dr. ucation for 12 years while supporting other groups Goosby dedicated much of his time and eff ort on like the San Francisco Airport Commission, the the board maintaining an avenue for communica- Airport Museum Board, the Human Rights Com- tion between the residents of the city and the board. mission, the board, and the War Goosby’s mission was to create a better, more inclu- Memorial Board, where he “served with great dis- sive environment for the people of San Francisco. tinction,” according to Mayor Willie Brown. Getting into a position to facilitate change was Dr. Zuretti Goosby saw an unfair system where a battle on its own for Goosby. In 1967, the mayor people of color were not taken seriously as candi- at that time, John Shelley, replaced James E. Strat- dates when applying for jobs that they were qual- ten with Dr. Zuretti L. Goosby on the San Francisco ifi ed for. San Francisco Examiner writer Dick Alexan- School Board which created backlash. According to der mentioned that during Dr. Goosby’s fi rst year writer Alan Cline, Dr. Goosby stated that his goal on the Board of Education, he proved himself to was to address “the [community’s] need for spend- be a strong advocate for the promotion of quali- ing more money on education and to fi nd money fi ed black people in their relative fi elds. For exam-

58 CHANGEMAKERS Dr. Zurretti Goosby, dentist Dr. Goosby not only cared about future gen- erations, but also the people who were suff ering in and activist, is remembered for the present. In the early 80s, he headed the Gay Subcommittee of the Intergroup Clearinghouse. his work in civil rights and San Another one of Goosby’s major objectives was to Francisco’s education system. provide education regarding tenant rights and to address the need for low-income housing. This was focused on the LGBTQ+ community who had ple, when Dr. Wilson Riles applied to be the San been displaced from their homes and neighborhood Francisco school superintendent, Dr. Goosby made businesses. Goosby also highlighted the importance a brave statement in front of the entire board advo- of the need for faster police response to reports of cating for him. Endorsing Riles was controversial violence against members of this community. and even put Goosby’s own job position in danger, Dr. Zuretti Goosby passed away on January but Goosby believed that “[Riles] certainly would 30, 2000, at the age of 77. His legacy remains in- be one of the top candidates and would bring a lot grained into the fabric of the Bay Area. Goosby is of experience to the job.” remembered as a husband to Jackeline, a brother Goosby was later promoted to serve as the to Lula Reed, a father to his three sons, and as a Board’s President. He played a key role in San grandfather to his four grandchildren. He is painted Francisco’s diffi cult transition out of segregation in upon the wall of the Ella Hill Hutch Community the 70s. As one of the strongest advocates for deseg- Center in order to honor his legacy. regation, he strived to ensure that it was achieved as seamlessly and as logically as possible. —DeJanelle Bovell and Zoe Foster In addition to his plans for integration, Goosby also wanted to implement an intensive education Works Cited plan in the community to supplement it. The plan was an imitation of a program that already exist- Alexander, Dick. “For Head of S.F. Schools.” SF ed in the Richmond district. He believed that this Examiner. 20 May 1970. program would be vital for the success of desegre- Asimov, Nanette. “Longtime Education Leader.” SF gation. The plan “suggested that the schools [the Gate. 03 Feb. 2000. following] year follow a policy of open enrollment, Cline, Alan. “Shelly Names Goosby to S.F. School allowing any transfer which would improve racial Board.” SF Examiner. 8 May 1967. Wood, Jim. “City Faces Integrate Deadline: School balance.” The other board members supported Board Weighs Plan.” SF Examiner. 7 Aug. 1970. Goosby’s aspiration for city-wide and school-wide Sixty-two Heroes and Pioneers of the Western Addition. integration. Dr. Goosby was highly successful given SF Cultural and Historical Society. 2000. the context of the conservative social climate of the Wegart, Don. “Survey to Revive Poly High.” times. SF Chronicle. 8 May 1970.

59 IMAGE

LEONARD ‘LEFTY’ COURTESY

OF

GORDON AFRICAN

AMERICAN

CULTURAL

ANY PEOPLE of the Western Addition are in- AND

Mdebted to the kindness and grace of Leon- HISTORICAL ard “Lefty” Gordon. Gordon was a friend, coach, Leonard “Lefty” Gordon served as Executive Director of the

mentor, and leader in his community. Until his un- Ella Hill Hutch Community Center. SOCIETY timely passing in 2000 at the age of 61, Gordon mentored hundreds of kids as the executive direc- tor of the Ella Hill Hutch Community Center. the Booker T. Washington Community Center for The Mississippi native moved to San Francisco twenty years. He ingrained the value of education when he was three years old. Lefty grew up to be and hard work into everyone he taught. His will- a prominent high school track athlete and a star ingness to go the extra mile led to him being hired player. His friends called him “Lefty” from as Executive Director of the Ella Hutch Commu- the start (he was, after all, a left-handed pitcher in nity Center in 1983. baseball). Although he had incredible athletic tal- Gregory Lewis and Venise Wagner point out ent, Lefty was never interested in pursuing profes- that “within a few years he had turned it into a sional sports. His childhood friend, Errol Hall, said signifi cant political force in the African American that despite Gordon’s athletic talent, “It just wasn’t community and at City Hall.” As director, Gordon in him, it wasn’t a dream of his to be a profession- worked to make the community center a haven for al athlete.” Lefty enrolled at City College of San the young people of the Western Addition. In an Francisco, eventually transferring to San Francis- interview with Amelia Ashley–Ward, publisher of co State, majoring in education. Gordon’s career the Sun–Reporter, Gordon discussed that one of his choice would be a decision that would benefi t the life goals was “to save young black men and bring people of the Western Addition and speaks to his them into manhood.” As director, he ran and fi - commitment to helping others. nanced programs such as the Midnight Basketball After attending San Francisco State Universi- League with games running from 10pm–2am. ty, Lefty attended and received a master’s degree Alongside Wendy Nelder, he commissioned the in Sociology from the University of California murals of prominent African American fi gures at Berkeley. Gordon worked as a social worker at who contributed to San Francisco public life. The

60 CHANGEMAKERS Mayor Willie L. Brown said that lations, and successes of the Western Addition and was a testament to Lefty’s dedication to solving and Lefty Gordon was “one of the responding to problems in the neighborhood. most respected African Gordon gave everything to the Center. In an in- terview done by G.W. Schulz, Greg Gordon, Lefty’s American voices of our son, observed that “he allowed his own health to deteriorate.” He always devoted his time to helping great city.” his community. A psychologist and co-worker, Julia murals are still displayed on the walls of the Ella Hare, remembered asking Gordon why he never Hutch Community Center. considered leaving the Western Addition in favor of Gordon went above and beyond to help the taking a higher paying job in the private sector. Mr. people of the Western Addition. One story, chron- Gordon laughed and said, “I don’t want to work on icled by 48 Hills journalist G.W. Schulz, detailed a high-tech plantation.” The neighborhood meant Lefty’s reading program for young athletes. Lefty everything to him and he dutifully served the West- discovered a high school football star was going to ern Addition until his death on May 3, 2000. Due be named San Francisco’s player of the year in the to the work of this well-respected social worker and newspaper. There was only one problem, the ath- political activist, many lives of young people and lete couldn’t read. Gordon, in response, started a seniors continue to be lifted and supported through reading program aimed at young athletes. the Ella Hill Hutch Community Center today. Mr. Gordon, expanding on the success of his reading program, started expanding the scope of —Alvin Tran, Matthew Chiodo, and Meisy Tunay the Ella Hill Hutch Community Center. Always fo- Works Cited cused on the importance of education, he started after school tutoring sessions to help Western Addi- Curiel, Jonathan, and Yumi Wilson. “Activist, Mentor to tion students succeed. Gordon also established job Black Teens Mourned in S.F. / `Lefty’ Gordon training programs for adults in the community. Credited with Helping Thousands.” SFGate, 3 May Gordon understood the importance of con- 2000. stant, civic engagement. He ran community events, Lewis, Gregory, and Venise Wagner. “Leonard ‘Lefty’ dubbed “kitchen cabinet meetings.” The gather- Gordon, Mentor, Leader in S.F. Black Community.” ings connected members of the SFPD with youth SFGate, 3 May 2000. in the neighborhood. The goal of these meetings, Rubinstein, Steve. “Hundreds Mourn for Youth Mentor.” Schulz, G.W. “A Heart Once Nourished.” according to G.W. Schulz was to create “a repos- sfbgarchive.48hills.org, 17 June 2008. itory of complaints about what was happening in Pelosi, Nancy. US Congress, Congress.gov, 15 May the neighborhood.” The increased dialogue helped 2000, 106th Congress, 2nd Session, Bill 59. foster a holistic understanding of the issues, tribu-

61 IMAGE

REV. COURTESY

OF

ROLAND INGLESIDE

GORDON PRESBYTERIAN

ORN ON February 13, 1944, in Greenwood, BMississippi, Roland Gordon was raised in Gary, Reverend Roland Gordon Indiana, where he was the star player and captain of Gary Roosevelt High School basketball team. In Reverend Gordon saw potential in the building and 1967 he went on to Baldwin Wallace College where felt as though a higher power was calling him to the he obtained a bachelor’s degree in education with a church. At the church, he organized a basketball minor in business. Moving to Los Angeles in 1972, program for the boys in the community—the In- Gordon visited a friend who was a local producer. gleside Church Basketball League. The league was He complimented Gordon on his poetry leading a way for boys to develop in a positive and healthy to their collaboration for two musicals: The Winds environment that promoted an importance on ed- of Change and Revelations from the Hip Bible. He also ucation and prayer at the same time. published a book called A Message To The World. In- Gordon said: “I pretty much opened the doors spired by his friend in the production world, Gor- of that gymnasium and the children came to me. don attended an acting school teaching him the This is part of my strategy. And all races, too. Pre- importance of composure. Soon after, he opened a dominantly black, but all races would come and creative gift shop called Roland Gordon’s Creation. play. The kids want to play. That’s the bottom line. Here he sold original greeting cards, posters, and So I would form teams, and some of the kids from crafts all made by hand from various diff erent art- the community would be the coaches.” ists that he knew in the area. Sadly, one day some- The Ingleside Community Center separately one robbed him of everything he had. Looking to expanded in service to the youths. Reverend Gor- the Lord for answers and aid, he began reading don completed his Master of Divinity Degree and scripture. was ordained as a full-time pastor on July 31, 1983. In 1978, Gordon began his career pastoring The church held many major community events at Ingleside Presbyterian Church, and he enrolled and exposed talented individuals to the communi- in the San Francisco Theological Seminary. In the ty. Rev. Gordon also got together a cooperative of beginning, the church had only four members, but non-profi t organizations which presented Othello, a

62 CHANGEMAKERS movie starring Ted Lange at the Kabuki Theater. ber 10, 2016. They are both designated as historic Reverend Gordon was the executive producer of landmarks. Enter Frederick Douglass and a narrator for the musical Reverend Gordon’s concerns also revolve The Modern Mass. around gentrifi cation in the area. Community On the board of the former San Francisco members have decreased from 500 to 75 in 2014. Council of Churches, Reverend Gordon served as As churches in the area see reductions in mem- Chair of the Children’s Services Committee and as bership, home prices keep rising and the African two-term president of the Board of Directors. He American population continues to fall. served on the Board of Directors of the Bay Area Rev. Gordon believes, however, that the peo- Black United Fund and was the Founder/President ple living in San Francisco can work together and of both the Thad Brown Boys Academy and Board get along. Roland hopes to accomplish this vision of the Ingleside Community Center. He received where people, especially children, repeat this affi r- the 2004 Alumni Merit Award from Baldwin Wal- mation called the San Francisco World Peace Affi r- lace College, the 2003 Distinguished Alumni Award mation, which he believes can be an eff ective way from San Francisco Theological Seminary, and was of keeping a peaceful mind in times of violence. a recipient of the Koshland Award in 1995 for out- Come what may, Reverend Gordon will continue standing community service. Later, Reverend Gor- to spread his message of peace. don led another project that remodeled a damaged Phelan Loop bus station which was slated to be de- — Emmit Parubrub and Althea Pyle molished. The building was leased to the Ingleside Community Center for a business training program Works Cited for young people. By creating a mural called “The Great Cloud Carruthers, Will. “Deserved Recognition.” of Witnesses,” a collage of primarily newspaper Ingleside-Excelsior Light. Dec.–Jan. 2016–2017: 1+. and magazine clippings, painted murals, posters, Gordon, Roland. “An Interview with Reverend Roland Gordon.” Personal interview with Emmit Parabrub. framed prints, and objects depicting prominent 4 Dec. 2016. African American people in history, Gordon want- “Great Cloud of Witnesses: An Icon of African ed to show that the African American community American Muralism in Ingleside.” Heritage News was able to accomplish great things. He hoped that Summer 2015: 6–7. “people of all races (especially African American Mullane, Nancy. “Church Copes with Black Flight youths) will be blessed by learning the truth about from San Francisco.” NPR, 24 June 2007. the rich contributions the sons and daughters of Mullaney, Alexander. “Walking with Reverend Roland African descent have made to civilization and Gordon.” Ingleside-Excelsior Light. 08 Jan. 2015. most especially to our country.” Both the Ingleside “Rev. Roland Gordon.” Ingleside Presbyterian Church. Church and the mural were added to San Francis- “Rev. Roland Gordon.” Western Neighborhoods Project—San Francisco History. 2016. co’s Article 10 list of historic properties on Decem-

63 NAOMI IMAGE

GRAY COURTESY

OF

SF

GATE AOMI JEAN THOMAS GRAY was born in Hat- Ntiesburg, Mississippi, on May 18, 1922. She was raised in Indiana alongside her four other sib- lings. In 1945 she earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology from Hampton University and went on to earn graduate degrees from Hampton Univer- Naomi Gray, selfl ess activist for public health in San Francisco sity and Indiana University. Upon graduation, she and the fi rst black female Vice President of the Planned Parent- hood Federation of America was hired as a caseworker for a foster care agency in Indianapolis (Historymakers). Soon after, she worked for 20 years for the Planned Parenthood national, and international current events, and a Federation of America, earning the position of the frequent letter writer to The Chronicle, Gray quickly fi rst black female vice president (Knight). After a came to know seemingly everybody in city govern- divorce, Gray decided to move to San Francisco, ment. She became close friends with several prom- where she was appointed to serve on the board inent San Francisco leaders such as Superior Court of the San Francisco Public Health Committee in Judge Don Mitchell and Mayor Dianne Feinstein, 1985. She made strides towards “stronger affi rma- but she was never afraid to tell them what she really tive action programs” in the city’s Public Health thought (Knight). Department for eight years (Knight). From travel- In 1985 Mayor Dianne Feinstein appointed ing the world to teach family planning and how to Gray to the city’s fi rst-ever Health Commission and stop the spread of AIDS, to being an outspoken nominated her for “the Who’s Who of strong black leader in her local community, Gray’s advocacy in- women” (Knight). She served as a chair member spired hard work and integrity. on several committees, always speaking up, specifi - When Gray fi rst moved to San Francisco in the cally on controversial topics such as the AIDS crisis, 1980s, she rented a home close to her sister Doris which had risen to the number one killer of men Gray. She got a job in social work, and then took ages 25 to 42 in 1992 (Cisneros). Fighting adamant- the opportunity to teach at San Francisco State ly against the needle exchange programs in which University (Knight). A passionate follower of local, drug addicts could trade in their used syringes for

64 CHANGEMAKERS clean ones with the hope of stopping the spread of mer director of Laguna Honda Hospital once said AIDS, Gray said, “A lot of us in the minority com- “the reason she had such and eclectic group of in- munity feel this only reinforces drug abuse among terests is because she saw so many needs” (Knight). black, Hispanic and poor people,” and went on to Gray also helped create the Black Leadership Fo- say, “It’s like saying the way to deal with welfare rum, the African American Education Leadership mothers is to have them sterilized” (Knight). By Group, and the Sojourner Truth Foster Family 1986, Gray proposed an initiative to local black Service Agency (Gray). She also served on Mayor leaders, to research the impacts of AIDS in their Willie Brown’s task force on Children, Youth and communities. Receiving great feedback, she helped their families from 1990 to 1993 and was a member jump start the Black Coalition On AIDS. One of of Mayor ’s transition team after the the founding members said this of Gray: 2003 election (Knight). Given all the teams, foun- “[Commissioner Gray] had seen spiraling dations and task forces Gray was a part of, it’s no funding for AIDS education and activities directed wonder that she is remembered as a selfl ess giver to toward the Black population. Her invitation was her community. a challenge to the Black community to defi ne and Gray understood the benefi ts of building a advocate for our own needs. Out of that challenge strong community by taking on the role as the mid- we have created a broadly based organization in- dle-man between residents and politicians. Until cluding over 200 individuals and agencies com- her fi nal months, she would insist on “bringing her mitted to the education and service needs of our wheelchair to meetings.” At the age of 84 Gray community” (McBride 167). passed away on December 29, 2006 in San Fran- In 1993, Gray co-founded the Twenty-First cisco at Laguna Honda Hospital. Century Academy in Bayview-Hunters Point (Saunders). The new public middle school was —Evita Martinez, Kalin Venable, and Meghan Grant created “to improve learning among underserved African Americans” (Saunders). In opposition to Works Cited San Francisco’s Unifi ed School District’s “desegre- gation,” she hoped the school would support the Cisneros, Lisa. “Thirty Years of AIDS: A Timeline of marginalized neighborhood it was in, rather than the Epidemic.” UC San Francisco, 6 June 2011. Knight, Heather. “Naomi Gray—African American having minority students bus to schools in white Civic Leader.” SFGate. 19 Jan. 2012. neighborhoods (Knight). Saunders, Debra J. “Failure Lobby Finds Itself A From ensuring Black foster children were placed Champion.” SFGate. 14 Feb. 2012. with Black families to creating stronger affi rmative Wysinger, Shirley. “Naomi Thomas Gray’s Obituary.” action programs in the Public Health Department, SF Chronicle. 14 Jan. 2007. Gray seemed to have had a hand in numerous proj- ects throughout her career. Anthony Wagner, for-

65 I BISHOP O COURTESY MAGE DONALD

FS

FCH

R

I S

GREEN TIAN

C

E NTER

ISHOP DONALD GREEN was born in Portsmouth, BVirginia, before moving to San Francisco at the age of four. During his adolescence, Green of- ten saw his classes and the social pressures around him as increasing burdens. It was not until 1959 that Donald Green found his love for God and be- Bishop Donald Green at his desk in the SF Christian Center gan his early stages of preaching the ways of Evan- gelical Christianity. According to the San Francisco Christian Center (SFCC), Green began preaching and most importantly, hard work. His passion for on the streets of the Western Addition and would Christian teachings and his affi nity for aiding “lost often venture to Market Street. He be- souls” carried him through his profession with the came known as a “street preacher.” Although he fervor of a man on a mission. had found a certain passion in the ways of urban Donald Green was exalted as a pastor of the street preaching, Green quickly became a teacher San Francisco Christian Center in 1966 due to his for other members of church, and according to achievement in and devotion to his faith. By April Project Impact he was a “pastor’s pastor . . . under- 1999, he had been consecrated to the title of Bish- standing the requisites and challenges of ministry.” op. Largely under his direction, the San Francisco Here, he would become quite empathetic toward Christian Center has become one of the largest the struggle of teaching religion during a period of and most prominent pentecostal churches in the massive social change. . In 2001, Bishop Donald In 1964, Green was ordained as the Assistant Green and the Board of Directors of Tabernacle Pastor of San Francisco Center, after hav- Community Development Corporation (TCDC) ing been a Sunday School teacher and youth leader started a housing project which aimed “to stimu- there. He was then granted an honorary Doctorate late growth in the community by developing and of Theology degree from the Southern Califor- participating in the development of residential, nia School of Ministry for his devotion, wisdom, commercial and industrial projects that contribute

66 CHANGEMAKERS to the economic stimulation and vitality within un- preaches at the San Francisco Christian Center derserved communities” (McCray). Donald Green and consistently delivers powerful sermons regard- is now the retired president of the organization. ing trust in God during challenging times. In one He had a variety of accomplishments during his of his sermons delivered in 2015, Green impressed career, including helping to establish the Young Af- upon his audience the importance of realizing that rican American Achievers Program and receiving hardships purpose themselves as inevitable storms a $1.2 million grant from former California Gov- that we must weather; no one can leave a storm ernor . The money went towards form- unscathed, but our faith in God can suffi ce like the ing JUMP Academy in collaboration with the San calm in the eye of the storm. Green related his own Francisco School Board, and allowed them to host experiences with job loss, faithlessness, and daily ad- their fi rst fundraiser gala, raising over $100,000 for versities with his audience and eloquently used these their social service programs. experiences to off er a powerful sermon about facing Green’s attentiveness and care for others did not pain. Sermons such as these show Bishop Green’s wane and he helped other pastors in sustaining their immense wisdom regarding the power that faith can own churches, all in the pursuit of spreading the have in times of fear and oppression. He continually Christian faith. His love for humanity was exempli- fi ghts for the less fortunate who have lost so much fi ed when he ran the Christian Couples Conference in a city that has been pushing them out. Bishop of 1971, during which he demonstrated his belief Green’s faith is a constant force that can be felt by that many marriages should be saved or reconciled anyone who hears his compelling sermons on the in the name of God. Many other ministries were power of spirituality. created in order to help people from all walks of life, such as establishing new ministry leadership roles, —Chase Nakayama, Evita Martinez, and Marcelo Swoff ord creating prison ministries, and senior ministries. In an SF Examiner article written by Laura Paul– Works Cited Borja on May 23, 1986, Green commented that “46 percent of inmates in federal and state prisons “Bishop Donald E. Green.” Project Impact. 2015. are black men, and that 90 percent of homicides Green, Bishop Donald. “Message Archive.” NBCC. New Beginnings Community Church, 9 Aug. 2015. of black men are committed by blacks.” This stag- Lewis, Gregory. “Minister Urges Mourners: Be your gering statistic of the late 80s shows Green’s under- Brother’s Keeper.” SF Chronicle. 12 May. standing of his environment, and his role as a medi- McCray, James, Jr. “Tabernacle Statement.” ator and mentor in socially troubling times. Tabernacle Community Development Corp., 2001. As the former president of the TCDC, Bish- Paul-Borja, Laura. SF Examiner. 23 May1986. op Donald Green sought to help those struggling through societal discrimination, and in doing so he demonstrated his tireless faith towards helping anyone, regardless of color, shape, or class. He still

67 IMAGE

BISHOP COURTESY

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WILBUR CALFORNIA

HAMILTON NORTHWEST

ILBUR WYATT HAMILTON was born on Janu- ECCLESIASTICAL Wary 28, 1931, in San Antonio, Texas to E. E. Hamilton and Bessie Fields. Growing up, both of his parents played active roles for the Church

of God in Christ, which was the primary factor in JURISDICTION moving them to Hearne, Texas, so that his parents could work for the Church’s fi rst school. After a few years they settled in San Francisco. Bishop Wilbur Hamilton. Upon their arrival, Wilbur’s father bought a church that had been vacated by the Japanese community during World War II in the Western Addition. His father held gospel readings and mass feeling when they disappeared and not being able there for the people in the community. to understand fully what was going on” (Harlem of Wilbur Wyatt Hamilton, better known as Bish- the West). op Hamilton, received an A.A. degree from San As an adult, Hamilton was recruited by Justin Francisco City College before obtaining a bache- Herman during the A2 phase of the urban renewal lor’s degree in Social Science from Simpson Col- project to help lead the program and ensure that lege and then an M.B.A. degree from Golden Gate the African American community had a say in the University and a Doctor of Divinity degree from renewal process (KQED Fillmore). Because of the Simpson College in San Francisco. controversy surrounding the fi rst round of renew- Hamilton remembers growing up in the West- al that blighted the Western Addition community, ern Addition as a young child and recalls that many Herman called a meeting fi lled with African Amer- of his best friends were Japanese. He looks back on icans from the Western Addition to try to resolve the time of World War II and Japanese internment some of these diff erences. Herman proposed his as a time of sadness and confusion, explaining in plan and angered many members of the communi- an interview that he still remembers “the awful ty. Among them was Wilbur Hamilton, who quick-

68 CHANGEMAKERS ly opposed Herman. Herman then stood up in his re-elected in 1992 and 1996. In November 2000 chair and shouted at Hamilton in , “If Hamilton was elected General Board Member you’re so damned dissatisfi ed with what’s going and was appointed by Presiding Bishop G.E. Pat- on, why don’t you come out to the Western Addi- terson to the position of General Board Secretary. tion and run the program?” Hamilton then said, In 2004 he was re-elected to the General Board “You’ve got a deal.” Like that, Hamilton became and re-appointed to the position of General Board the director of A2. Secretary. As a part of the renewal projects, Herman Because of the infl uence that Bsihop Wil- wanted to tear down many of the older buildings in bur Hamilton held in the Western Addition, he the neighborhood to make room for new construc- is painted onto the Ella Hill Hutch Community tion. Among these buildings was Wilbur Hamil- Center mural. Though to some he is seen as a con- ton’s father’s church which was also torn down as troversial fi gure, the impact that he had upon the a part of this second phase of renewal. This was a community cannot be denied, and his good inten- controversial act, especially given Hamilton’s role tions are not in question. The legacies of urban re- in the program. The church, along with many oth- newal are still visible in the Fillmore District today. er buildings in the neighborhood, was torn down. Bishop Wilbur Hamilton played an instrumental Many of the buildings were not actually construct- role throughout the A2 phase and, through thick ed on the abandoned properties for years and only and thin, was a leader and representative for the a small part of the original community remains. Western Addition. After being part of the San Francisco Rede- velopment Agency, Hamilton dedicated himself —Eduardo Alguera and Zachary James to religion. He was the founding Bishop of Cali- fornia Northwest Jurisdiction, Church of God In Works Cited Christ. Hamilton also served as founding Pastor of the Hamilton Memorial Church of God in Christ “Bishop Wilbur Hamilton.” Harlem of the West, in San Francisco and has held a succession of 24 Aug. 2018 “Bishop Wilburn Wyatt Hamilton, Pastor.” Greater state and national appointments in the Church of Victory Temple. Greater Victory Temple, 2015. God in Christ, culminating with his Consecration “Hamilton, Wilbur Wyatt.” HighBeam. 1 Jan. 2009. in 1987 as Bishop and Prelate of the California Martin, S. R. “Part 1.” On the Move: A Black Family’s Northwest Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction. Western Saga. College Station: Texas A & M UP, In 1980 Bishop Hamilton was appointed to 2009. 53–54. serve as Pastor of the Victory Temple Church of “Reverend Wilbur Hamilton.” PBS, 2001. God in Christ in Seaside, California. In Novem- KQED. The Fillmore. PBS documentary, 1999. ber 1990 he was elected General Secretary of the Church of God in Christ, Inc. He was then

69 DR. NATHAN IMAGE

HARE COURTESY

OF

PSYCHOLOGY

ATHAN HARE, widely regarded as the father of Black Studies, was born in Slick, Oklahoma,

N on April 9, 1933. He was one of fi ve siblings. As a TODAY child, he spent some years with his aunt in Oklaho- ma City before returning to his family farm where he worked as a sharecropper and tenant farmer. At the age of 11, Hare migrated with his family to San Diego, California, for the war eff ort during the Great Dr. Nathan Hare Migration. In order to provide for the family, Hare’s mother got a civilian janitorial job at the Naval Air After Hare graduated from Langston Universi- Station. After World War II, Hare’s mother lost her ty with a B.A. in Sociology in 1954, he was granted job and moved the family back to Oklahoma. a Danforth Fellowship which allowed him to con- In Oklahoma, Hare attended L’Ouverture tinue his career in higher education. He attend- Elementary and High School, segregated public ed graduate school at the University of Chicago schools named after Haitian revolutionist and gen- where he received his M.A. and PhD in Sociology eral, Toussaint L’Ouverture. Hare’s life took a pos- in 1957. Around this time, he married Julia Reed, itive turn when he was able to represent his class a psychologist and sociologist who also attended at the “Interscholastic Meet” of black students at Langston University. They are still together today Oklahoma Langston University after scoring high and recently celebrated their 62nd anniversary in on standardized tests. Hare won the fi rst of his December of 2018. many prizes at this event. His educational success In 1961, Hare was hired by Howard University, a led him to gain the support of his principal, who historically black college in Washington, D.C. Hare arranged for Hare to attend Langston University became increasingly involved in the Black Power and work in the university dining hall in order to movement while at Howard (One of his students pay tuition. At the time, Langston University was was Stokely Carmichael). Hare was fi red from the the only college that admitted black students in university in 1967 for writing a letter to the school’s Oklahoma. newspaper which addressed the lack of black stu-

70 CHANGEMAKERS Dr. Nathan Hare, psychologist against black people. Hare’s publications include The Black Anglo Saxons and Bringing the Black Boy to and scholar, is widely Manhood: The Passage. Hare has worked closely with his wife, Julia regarded as the father of Reed. Together they co-founded the Black Think Black Studies. Tank, meant to address the problems and concerns that confront the African American community. dents at the historically black university. In the let- They also published The Endangered Black Family, The ter, he spoke out against Howard University’s pres- Miseducation of the Black Child, and Crisis in Black Sexual ident, James Nabrit, who wanted to increase white Politics together. enrollment. Dr. Hare’s increasingly vocal support Dr. Hare has won many awards for his work, to reform Howard led to his dismissal. such as the Joseph Hines Award for Distinguished However in 1968, Hare was hired at San Fran- Scholarship from the National Association of Black cisco State College (now known as San Francisco Sociologists, Scholar of the Year Award from the State University) where he became the fi rst pro- Association of African Historians, and the Lifetime gram coordinator of the school’s Black Studies Achievement Award from the National Black Col- program. It was the fi rst program of its kind in the lege Alumni Hall of Fame. Hare was also awarded United States. Hare was responsible for the cre- the National Council for Black Studies Award for ation of the term “ethnic studies,” which replaced his distinguished scholarly contributions to Black the term “minority studies.” Hare’s refusal to help Studies. He currently works as a psychologist based college president S.I. Hayakawa break a fi ve-month out of San Francisco. strike by a campus-wide multiracial coalition con- sisting of thousands of students and faculty, led to — Julio Ceja, Eduardo Alguera, Juliet Baires, Hare losing his job a year later in 1969. Grace Jackson, and Sawyer Wolf Dr. Hare went on to found a scholarly periodi- Works Cited cal called The Black Scholar: A Journal of Black Studies and Research, with Robert Chrisman, another for- Alic, Margaret. “Hare, Nathan 1934–.” Contemporary mer San Francisco State faculty member. Around Black Biography. 2004. Encyclopedia.com. this time, Hare returned to school to earn his doc- “Nathan Hare.” Nathan Hare. World Heritage torate in clinical psychology from the California Encyclopedia School of Professional Psychology in 1975. In the “Nathan Hare.” The HistoryMakers. 2019. same year, he decided to leave the journal to work “Nathan Hare.” Wikipedia. 2019. as a clinical psychologist in community health pro- grams, hospitals, and private practices. He then went on to publish books about the indiscretions

71 IMAGE

CAPTAIN COURTESY

OF

ST

SYLVIA .

MARY ’ S

HARPER COLLEGE

F THE MOUNTAIN can’t come to you,” Sylvia “IHarper said, “you go to the mountain.” Sylvia Harper’s go-get-’em attitude is exemplifi ed by the San Francisco Police Department Captain Syliva Harper. mountainous challenges she overcame throughout her life. Not only did she break down racial barri- dar. Not only was she a cheerleader, but she also ers, but she also became a symbol for strong females played intramural football and was crowned the in the workplace. Although she is only 5-foot-3, she Homecoming Queen. She was also known as the stood tall at the intersection of racial and gender “donut queen” because she would dedicate the wee inequality and her valor secured her a place among hours of the morning to working with the campus the other men and women on the Ella Hill Hutch baker. On top of all of this, she was also a blossom- Community Center mural. ing pre-med student, but after encountering diffi - Harper’s career in the San Francisco Police De- culty in her math classes, she switched to a biology partment began in 1979, when, while on maternity and psychology major. Sylvia Harper went on to leave, she expressed interest in the police depart- graduate from St. Mary’s in 1975 and then mar- ment. Before she began her career as an offi cer, she ried her boyfriend, Maurice Harper, Jr. She had was a student, athlete, wife, mother, and commu- a daughter, Cherisse, in 1977 and two years later, nity member. Harper is a native to San Francisco, had a son, Maurice Leejon. After her pregnancy and grew up in Silver Terrace. She attended Saint with Maurice, she joined the San Francisco Police Mary’s Cathedral High School and St. Mary’s Col- Department. Harper encountered numerous ob- lege of California. She liked the college’s location stacles and challenges in her early career. She ex- in Moraga because it was far enough from San plained that “the women had to be tough because Francisco to feel like an escape, but still within a they were held to a higher standard. I always tried comfortable proximity to the city. As a college stu- to retain my femininity. One [partner] told me ‘you dent, Harper excelled and had a busy social calen- drive like you have two kids in the back seat,’ and

72 CHANGEMAKERS Captain Sylvia Harper, a native you have to do everything” and that your direction should always be forward. “No matter where you San Franciscan, has served in go in life,” Harper stated, “you only go that way once, so go all the way.” the San Francisco Police In March of 2006, Sylvia Harper was promoted Department since 1979. to head of department administration. Assistant Chief was in charge of promoting a handful of offi cers as her command staff . “I don’t I told him that’s because I do drive with two kids in believe that we’re going to miss a beat here,” Fong the back seat.” said about her new cohort, “everyone’s in place.” In 1996, the SFPD began to utilize the diversity With Harper on her side, the department began to in their departments to make changes in the com- look optimistic. munity. The women placed in authority positions As for her personal life, Harper remains busy as were strategically promoted to serve communities an offi cer and caretaker for her mother. Regardless that were respective to their minority. For example, of what the future may bring, Captain Harper has according to Police Chief Fred Lau, “We’ll have an already made many positive contributions to the Asian American woman in Chinatown, a Spanish city of San Francisco. speaking Latino man in the Mission and an Afri- can American woman at Potrero.” One of these —Olivia Walker women was Sylvia Harper, who was appointed to Potrero Hill. She was able to succeed in her du- Works Cited ties and her multidisciplinary background helped Burress, Charles. “Diversity in New S.F. Police Station her excel in interpersonal relations. On Christmas Chiefs.” SF Chronicle,, 8 Feb. 1996. morning of 1996, Harper assuaged a frenzied, Hoover, Ken. “Neighbors Protest Rowdy S.F. Clubs.” worried community after a shooting and a stab- SF Chronicle, 31 Dec. 1996. bing occurred, promising that “your concerns will “Highest Ever Rank For Female Cops.” SF Chronicle, be my concerns” and assured that the safety of the 15 Apr. 1988. community was a priority among the offi cers. In “Sylvia (Marquis) Harper ‘75.” Saint Mary’s College 1988 in the San Francisco Chronicle, there was a sec- Van Derbeken, Jaxon, and Jim Herron Zamora. tion was entitled “Highest Rank Ever For Female “SFPD in Crisis / Acting Head Cop Speaks out / Cops.” This summarizes the two women, one of Fong Expresses Optimism — Names Command which was Harper, that reached the highest rank Staff to Run Department.” SF Gate , 6 Mar. 2003. ever attained by women offi cers, temporary lieu- tenants. Harper’s attitude is a unique factor in her success. She believes that “in order to embrace life,

73 IMAGE

BRENDA COURTESY

OF

HARRIS LEO

T . MCCARTHY

RENDA HARRIS was born in Montgomery, Ala- CENTER Bbama. Growing up she looked up to her par- ents as role models, both of whom were active participants in the civil rights movement and had Educator extraordinaire, Brenda Harris. participated in the Montgomery Bus Boycott in the mid-1950s. Harris would listen to her parents discuss the inhumanity of racism, injustice, and and the established family ties she had. She was discrimination and quickly learned about the im- also motivated to get a Catholic education because portance of doing her part in social movements. it was a more familiar learning style that she en- Harris recalls that her mother instilled an under- joyed. The school was signifi cantly smaller than it standing that underprivileged populations have is today and there was a larger population of black similar struggles, no matter their race. Coming students. The religious aspects of the Jesuit institu- from a household marked by rural poverty, she tion also had a strong presence and social justice had learned this all too well. Harris also recalls was emphasized across the campus. her father serving in the segregated Air Force and From 1972 to 1975, Brenda worked in USF’s remembers that learning of his experiences fur- Drama Department and Financial Aid offi ce while thered her own understanding of systemic injus- studying communications and sociology. She found tices. These circumstances helped to make Harris that the school’s black community was deeply in- into the socially conscious and politically aware volved in multiple non-profi ts in the Western Ad- woman that she is today. dition, Bayview–Hunters Point, and Haight-Ash- When Harris was in high school, her family bury districts. Harris tutored at Benjamin Franklin moved from Montgomery to Marysville, Califor- Middle School on Geary Blvd., and worked with a nia, about fi fty miles north of Sacramento. Harris Jewish women’s organization in an eff ort to unite graduated high school in 1969. She attended Gon- diff erent groups. She also volunteered at the Free zaga University before transferring to the Universi- Clinic in the upper Haight. ty of San Francisco in 1971. Brenda was drawn to She later partnered with the Junior League, the city because of her positive experiences there which off ered counseling to students of color who

74 CHANGEMAKERS were interested in learning about scholarships and ing the black community of San Francisco. who strived to secure equal education and deseg- Harris was well-qualifi ed, having taught ele- regate schools within the San Francisco Unifi ed mentary, middle, and high school students, in ad- School District. After graduating from USF, she dition to serving as a school counselor and admin- went on to earn her elementary and secondary istrator. Harris also taught as an adjunct professor school teaching credentials and a master’s degree at California State University Sacramento from in administration. 1996 to 2006. The culmination of her experiences Harris spent most of her time working in the built the foundation for her impactful role within Western Addition because of its close proximity to the Department of Education. She credits her suc- USF. This was the fi rst time she was able to fully cess to her Jesuit education. Harris feels that the immerse herself in a black community. For her, the most important thing that she accomplished while Western Addition was a place full of cultural rich- working for the Department of Education was pro- ness. She witnessed the slow gentrifi cation of the viding technical assistance and guidance to school Fillmore District and participated in the Western districts, nonprofi ts, and their partners. Harris Addition Project Area Committee (WAPAC) meet- still attends Jesuit philosophy and theology classes ings that were meant to protect the neighborhood’s while working for the Education Department near dwindling culture. her current home in Sacramento. Her engagement with the Fillmore lasted until Brenda Harris is passionate about improving she left the city. She did her student teaching in the education in economically disadvantaged neigh- Fillmore and worked as a volunteer in the College borhoods. She is currently a member of USF’s and Career Counseling department in the neigh- Board of Trustees and has spent countless hours borhood. supporting USF’s mission of social justice. Recent- Harris was also involved with the Ella Hill ly, her work with the Ester Madriz Scholars and Hutch Community Center. Dr. Shirley Thornton, Martín-Baró Scholars Programs has earned her Deputy Superintendent of Specialized Programs the 2018 Engage San Francisco Community Part- at the State Department of Education, USF alum- ner Award for Western Addition Changemakers. ni, and San Francisco native who Harris described Her support has helped create this book, a book in an interview as “competent, , and coura- that strives to honor the lives of prominent African geous,” asked Harris to be her political appointee American leaders in San Francisco like her. at the State Department of Education in 1990. Dr. Thornton requested that Harris represent her at —Jack Weinrieb and Meghan Grant the weekly meetings hosted by Lefty Gordon at Ella Hill Hutch Community Center. During these Works Cited “kitchen cabinet meetings,” local organizers and citizens came together to discuss issues surround- Interview with Brenda Harris by Jack Weinrieb. March 8, 2016.

75 IMAGE

LEOLA COURTESY

OF

HAVARD

DUGGANS

SERRA

MORTUARY

EOLA HAVARD was born on April 3, 1920, in LEthel Louisiana (Obituary). Leola moved to California after graduating from Southern Uni- versity in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. She followed Leola Havard after her father and brother and moved to San Francisco where she would spend her life and raise her family. In a personal interview with Ha- tion. At San Francisco State, Havard was a charter vard’s son Jerome, he recalls that Leola’s father member of the Beta Nu chapter of Phi Delta Kap- and brother worked at a shipyard during the war pa, the teachers’ fraternity. while she worked at the treasury department. Je- In 1949, after earning her teaching creden- rome also mentioned that Leola wanted to be a tials, Leola began working for San Francisco Uni- teacher ever since she was a child. Her intention fi ed School District. She taught at Patrick Henry, was to get a teaching credential at San Francisco Geary, and McKinley Schools. After many years State University. of dedication, she was promoted to the position of At this time San Francisco State was hesitant vice-principal. She served at Marshall Annex and to recognize Southern University’s credentials, Starr King Elementary as the fi rst female African so they refused to accept Leola’s degree. They American administrator in the San Francisco Uni- wanted her to retake remedial courses in an at- fi ed School District. She fi nished off her career as tempt to prevent her from attending the univer- principal at John Muir Elementary School, where sity. This didn’t stop her, however. she would retire in 1979. Jerome remembers the story of his mother According to her son Jerome, even in retire- and aunt taking the bus to Sacramento to lobby ment Leola remained an active community mem- the governor on Havard’s behalf. The governor ber. She was an invested member in her church proceeded to make a few calls and write a letter and actually became the fi rst female chair of the to San Francisco State University to ensure that board of trustees for the Third Baptist Church Leola could pursue graduate work at the institu- in San Francisco. She was also a lifelong member

76 CHANGEMAKERS Leola Havard was the fi rst Unifi ed School District. Rachel Norton, parent on the Board of Education, described the renaming African American woman ceremony as a “community celebration.” The San Francisco Bayview wrote that “Community mem- to serve as a Principal bers attended the meeting in full force to show in the San Francisco Unifi ed their support.” The community came to the event dressed in red to celebrate Havard’s favorite color School District. and to express her important role as an educator in San Francisco. of the NAACP as well as the National Council of Leola Havard passed away on May 22, 2018. Negro Women. Additionally, she was involved with She is still remembered as a woman who was able the Madam CJ Walker Home for Young Women, to break barriers and who worked to change the an organization that took in African American status quo. Her legacy lives on through the many women new to the city at a time when they were students that she helped throughout the duration excluded from places like hotels. of her career. Havard’s refusal to take no for an In 2011, Leola Havard was offi cially recog- answer has paved the way for many others. Her nized for her work in education by the renaming of commitment and dedication to education helped the Burnett Child Development Center. Rev. Dr. to shape the values of the San Francisco school Amos C. Brown discovered disturbing information system. about former California governor Peter Burnett. According to the San Francisco Chronicle, Rev. Brown —Madison Owens and Ben Hamblin discovered that Peter Burnett was a driving force for the exclusion of black communities and the Works Cited eradication of Native Americans. Through eff orts “Burnett Child Development Center to Be Renamed from Rev. Brown and the NAACP, the school was Leola M. Havard Early Education School after renamed in Havard’s honor. District’s First African American Female Principal.” The Leola M. Havard Early Education School San Francisco Bay View, 14 May 2011. remains as a lasting legacy for a woman who was “Jerome Havard Remembers His Mother, Leola.” dedicated to her community and who was a pio- Interview by Ben Hamblin. Personal interview. neer for education. San Francisco Unifi ed School 5 Feb. 2017. District Board member said of the name change: Norton, Rachel. “Posts about Leola Havard.” Rachel “We want [students] to know and be proud of Norton: SF Board of Education, 12 Apr. 2011. “San Francisco school swaps out name of racist who their school is named after.” Leola Havard California governor.” , 20 May 2011. fought the odds by becoming the fi rst female Af- rican American principal in the San Francisco

77 AFRICAN IMAGE

REV. FREDERICK COURTESY

AMERICAN

OF

CULTURAL

DOUGLASS MS . CLANTON

AND /

HAYNES HISTORICAL

EVEREND REDERICK OUGLASS AYNES F D H was SOCIETY Rborn in 1899 in Talcott, West Virginia. At four years old he was orphaned and then raised by his sister in Pennsylvania where he began working at age 10 at a bakery, which allowed him to support Reverend Frederick Douglass Haynes, Sr., served the himself through high school. Third Baptist Church from 1932–1971. In the early 1920s Haynes moved to Los Angeles to attend the Biola Institute and Baptist Bible Col- lege. He became licensed as a preacher by the time church (Social Networks and Archival Context). he was 17 and organized the fi rst junior church in Pastor of the largest African American congre- California while serving as an assistant pastor. After gation in Northern California, Haynes served as the he was ordained in 1928, Haynes gained the pulpit president of the California State Baptist Conven- of the Second Baptist Church in Fresno, California, tion from 1960–69. Rev. Haynes has also received and then four years later moved to San Francisco to an honorary Doctor of Divinity degree by Bishop serve as the pastor of the Third Baptist Church, a College in Dallas. position Haynes would keep till his death in 1971. Beyond church aff airs, Haynes was also a When he fi rst arrived at the church it has a con- strong proponent of the civil rights movement gregation of 150 and an annual budget of $1,500, and social justice. His grandson, Rev. Dr. Fred- but by the end of Haynes’ work the congrega- erick Douglass Haynes, III, said, “As a matter of tion had grown to 3,000 members with a budget fact, he named himself after the silver-tongued of $150,000. Founded in August 1852, the Third leader of the abolitionists, Frederick Douglass” Baptist Church was the fi rst African American (San Francisco Bay View). Haynes was an import- Baptist congregation established west of the Rocky ant public fi gure in the community, serving as one Mountains and it was both Haynes’ leadership as of the neighborhood’s principal liaisons with San well as the demographic changes set off by World Francisco’s white power structure and by sitting War II that initiated such a dramatic growth for the on multi-racial committees and panels. In 1943

78 CHANGEMAKERS Rev. Frederick Douglass After Haynes’ death in 1971 following a long illness Congressman issued the fol- Haynes served as the Pastor of lowing statement in Washington, D.C.: “[Haynes] the Third Baptist Church, the championed the oppressed and pioneered the fi ght for social justice in our community. He was largest African American known and respected not only by the citizens of San Francisco, but by the governors of our state congregatation in Nothern and the presidents of our nation. Dr. Haynes was California, from1932–1971. a man of Christian gentleness and personal integ- rity whose memory I will long treasure and whose goods works will be a lasting benefi t to our com- he marched with striking longshoremen and was munity.” a key factor in Pacifi c Telephone’s decision to end It is clear to all who visit the Third Baptist racially biased hiring practices. Church today that Rev. Haynes’ legacy is still very Haynes was also an active member of the much alive. Black Ministerial Alliance, a civil rights organiza- —Hannah Shepherd tion dedicated to gaining equal access for African Americans to jobs, housing and health care (Tim Works Cited Kelley Consulting). and W.E.B. Du Bois were among some of the notable fi gures who sought Haynes’ “Haynes, Frederick Douglas, 1899-1971” SNAC counsel and support. In 1945 he became the fi rst Cooperative. Social Network and Archival Context, African American to run for Supervisor in San 2019. Francisco; he ran again in 1947 and 1951, but was “History of the Third Baptist Church.” unsuccessful each time. However, in 1956 Haynes Thirdbaptist.org. 2019. achieved political success when Mayor Christopher “Rev. Dr. Frederick Douglas Haynes, III: No. 1 for me is economic equality.” SF Bay View. Feb. 2013. appointed him to the San Francisco Public Library Sixty Two Heroes and Pioneers of the Western Addition. Commission. SF Cultural and Historical Society. 2000. Haynes married Charlie Mae Lomax, in 1945. Together they raised their three children, Harvey, Douglas and Sharon, along with Frederick Doug- las Haynes, Jr., Haynes’ son from his fi rst marriage. After his death in 1971 Frederick Douglass Haynes, Jr., succeeded him as pastor of the Third Baptist Church (Social Networks and Archival Context).

79 OLLIE AND WILLIE IMAGE

HECTOR COURTESY

OF

JOSEF

NORRIS

ILLIE HECTOR was a phenomenal football Ollie and Wille Hector as featured on the Inspiration Murals. Wplayer, but more importantly he was a role model. He and his wife, Ollie Hector, would serve as pillars of the Western Addition community and ously, Willie always imagined a life after football. represented strength and commitment within the During the off season, he would attend university neighborhood. Willie was born in New Iberia, Lou- classes. While he was playing, he earned a master’s isiana on December 23, 1939, but later immigrated degree in physical education. After his profession- with his parents to Mill Valley in Northern Califor- al football career ended, Willie decided to become nia. His prolifi c athletic abilities were noticed at an a football coach. He started his coaching career at early age. He enrolled in Tamalpais High School Tamalpais High School in 1966. He coached at the were he became a standout football player and track high school level for two years, where he set state and and fi eld athlete. Willie was recruited to play at the national records. He then decided to move into the University of Pacifi c in Stockton where he played city, becoming an assistant coach for the City Col- football and ran in track and fi eld. His talent shined lege of San Francisco’s football and track and fi eld at the University of Pacifi c, specifi cally as a football teams. After eight years of assistant coaching, Willie player. The drafted him in 1961 got the opportunity to replace CCSF head football as a guard. His superior athletic ability helped him coach Arthur Elston. He was interviewed along with excel in the highest levels of the game, even though assistant coach George Rush. An article published he was signifi cantly undersized. In Proverb G. Ja- in The Sun–Reporter detailed the inside story of city cobs book Autobiography of an Unknown Football Play- college’s football coach hiring competition. er, he described Willie as “an undersized guard on In a voting process to elect the next football the Rams team who couldn’t block me” (p. 333). He coach, there was a voting board that consisted of played several seasons for the Rams, Broncos, and past head coach Arthur Elston, two of his loyal as- the Calgary Stampede in Canada. sistant coaches, the CCSF athletic director, and the Although he took his professional career seri- president of the college, Dr. Washington. The votes

80 CHANGEMAKERS were allegedly kept secret, however, somehow they ability to be both humble and informative. Willie’s were leaked to the public. The voting board had de- concern regarding the success of students’ careers cided to award the position to George Rush, former foreshadowed his shining attitude as a parent. player under coach Arthur Elston. The Sun-Report- Willie used his positive disposition to raise three er claimed the board’s hiring decision was racially outstanding boys along with his wife, Ollie. In an motivated and wasn’t refl ective of the actual merits SFGate article, “Faces of Black Success,” Carol Ness needed to be a successful football coach. However, points out the signifi cance of Willie and Ollie’s pro- President Washington decided to nullify the results ductive parenting style. Famed Western Addition of the voting board and appointed Willie as the community leader Lefty Gordon explained the head football coach. signifi cance of the Hectors and their contribution The decision caused an immediate uproar. to the neighborhood by stating, “Oftentimes here, Washington decided to publicize the decision by African Americans, come from dysfunctional fam- sending his athletic director to San Francisco news- ilies. The Hectors instilled in their three sons a hell papers. However, the athletic director decided to of a work ethic. They all went to college and found publicly ask President Washington to reconsider his a skill. They all built their own homes.” One son, decision. The hiring debacle heightened racial ten- Robert Hector, went on to create an inclusive sup- sions within the university and in the city. Finally, port system for the youth in the Western Addition. after much deliberation, CCSF chose to default to He was one of the fi rst employees at the Ella Hill their original decision, George Rush. Hutch Community Center in San Francisco, where Although the decision caused great upheaval, he worked for nearly three decades. His longevity it didn’t aff ect Willie’s resolve. His enthusiasm for and commitment at the center is a refl ection of his athletics translated into a team-player mindset in his parents’ extensive support and love. academic career. He dedicated himself to mentor- The example that the Hectors have set has been ing young athletes and guiding them to both athletic important for generations of Western Addition chil- and academic success. In a 1977 Sun-Reporter arti- dren and families. heir example awarded them hon- cle, Willie said: “The fi rst year out of high school is orary status on the murals of the Ella Hill Hutch tough on a youngster, especially if the athlete is from Community Center. the ghetto and doesn’t have the background to study at the level of the other students who have been —Matt Chiodo and Olivia Walker preparing for college for years” (Ness). Willie put it upon himself to mentor athletes as if they were Works Cited his students. He was an infl uential voice within the Ness, Carol. “Faces of Black Success.” SFGate. 1999. Western Addition because he was an all-star student, “Pacifi c Athletic Hall of Fame.” 2018. talented football player, and a devoted community “Regional Directors.” AMBLP member. His personal experiences generated his “SF Human Rights Commission.” SFGov. 2018.

81 AILEEN

CLARKE IMAGE

HERNANDEZ COURTESY

OF

ALCU

WAS ALWAYS TOLD when I was growing up that I had “Ichoices—even when I really didn’t have a whole lot of them at the time—it was what I [would do] that would Aileen Clarke Hernandez co-founder of NOW. make a diff erence in my life.” Born on May 23, 1926, in , New York, Aileen Clarke Hernandez was raised in a family that inspired and encouraged change. from Los Angeles State College, summa cum laude Both of her parents immigrated from Jamaica and be- (League of Women Voters). Hernandez also studied at came American citizens. Her father, Charles Clarke, and the University of Southern worked in the art supply business, and her mother, Eth- California. She also received an honorary doctorate in el Clarke, was a costume maker and seamstress for the humane letters from Southern Vermont College in 1979 New York Theater District. Growing up, Hernandez (League of Women Voters). Hernandez’s fi rst involve- and her brothers learned how to both cook and sew ment with social movements started in 1951, when she “because her parents believed that no gender distinc- joined the West Coast division of the International La- tion should be made.” Her parents stood for equality— dies Garment Worker Union in California. whether it be race, gender, or class. All of this impacted Standing alongside renowned feminist , and shaped her education. Hernandez and others came together to form the Na- In 1943, as a valedictorian and emerging scholar, tional Organization for Women (NOW). As a co-found- Hernandez attended Howard University in Washing- er, Hernandez and the members worked on behalf of ton, D.C. There she served as editor and writer for the women in the workplace (Napikoski, Thought Co). In campus paper, The Hilltop, and even wrote a column for 1970, Hernandez succeeded Friedan and became the the Washington Tribune. In 1946, she joined the Kappa second president of NOW (Makers). Five decades after Mu Honor Society. A year later, Hernandez graduat- the 19th amendment was passed, NOW took action to ed from Howard, magna cum laude, with a bachelor’s show the presence and power of second-wave feminism degree in political science and sociology (League of with the Strike for Equality March (Cohen). This move- Women Voters of San Francisco). Both of these degrees ment boosted NOW’s base by 50% (Cohen) and was de- would aid her in her future endeavors with community. scribed as “easily the largest women’s rights rally since the In 1959, she received a master’s degree in government suff rage protests” (Cohen). Some accomplishments that

82 CHANGEMAKERS Aileen Clarke Hernandez was ifornia Women’s Agenda (CAWA) (Makers). In 2005, she “was one of 1,000 women from 150 nations who co-founder and president of were collectively nominated for a ” (Napikoski). Her contributions have relieved many com- NOW (National Organization munities in San Francisco that face similar intersectional dilemmas. She is more than outspoken about these is- for Women) sues and encourages outreach to all corners of a com- munity. Her dedication to education and her humble were gained after the march include pushing for gender upbringing helped to catapult her to where she is now. equality in work spaces and in education through the Her generous eff orts through charity and activism con- passing of Title IX in 1972, the legalization of abortion tinue to inspire many. in all fi fty states in 1973 with the Roe v. Wade case, and the advancement of childcare through the passing of the —Jazlynn Pastor, Alice Alvarez, and Olivia Walker Comprehensive Child Development Act in 1971 (Cohen). In addition to her work in NOW, Hernandez en- forced the Anti-Discrimination Law in 1959. Three Works Cited years later, she became the assistant chief of the Califor- nia Division of Fair Employment Practices. Because of “A Diff erent Kind of Reproductive Rights.” Makers. her dedication, President Lyndon B. Johnson appointed “Aileen Clark Hernandez.” Civic Makers, The History Hernandez as the Commissioner for the Equal Employ- Makers, 8 Nov. 2013. ment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) (Makers). She “Aileen Hernandez.” Veteran Feminists of America, was the fi rst woman commissioner and second person VFA. 2018. of color to hold the position (Makers). With her role, she Cohen, Sascha. “Women’s Equality Day: The History focused on Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, of When Women Went on Strike.” Time, 11 Mar. which “outlawed discrimination based on sex, race, col- 2013. or, national origin, and religion”(Gould). Disappointed Gould, Suzanne. “The Untold Story behind the Civil with the EEOC’s inability to enforce this law, Hernan- Rights Act.” Empowering Women Since 1881, dez resigned as commissioner. During an interview with AAUW, 30 June 2014. KQED, she shared: “We did not have power to make “International Ladies Garment Workers Union (1900- any changes in those days.” 1995).” International Ladies Garment Workers Nevertheless, her work continued. Her passion in Union (1900-1995), The Eleanor Roosevelt Papers intersectional feminism led her to co-found the group Project. Black Women Stirring the Waters in 1984 (Makers). “LWVSF Centennial Celebration Honorees.” League The group consisted of black women who engaged in of Women Voters of San Francisco, Feb. 2011. discussion about their own views and personal stories of Napikoski, Linda. “Aileen Hernandez — Feminist Civil dealing with and overcoming diffi cult situations in their Rights Activist.” ThoughtCo, About, 1 Apr. 2017. lives (Makers). Their stories eventually were published Teipe, Emily. “Aileen Clarke Hernandez.” Salem Press and can be bought online or found in the Oakland Pub- Biographical Encyclopedia, Research Starters, lic Library. She is currently one of the chairs of Cal- 2015.

83 DEPUTY CHIEF IMAGE

RICHARD COURTESY

OF

HOLDER JOSEF

NORRIS

ICHARD HOLDER a San Francisco native and RVietnam War veteran, will be remembered as a civil servant to the city, valiantly serving in the San Francisco Police Department for 28 years. Holder protected his community and never com- promised on what he perceived as best for San Deputy Chief Richard Holder as depicted on the Inspiration Francisco. He began serving in the SFPD in 1972 Murals. and climbed the ranks until his departure in June 2000. Holder was appointed as SFPD Sergeant in 1980, Lieutenant in 1984, Captain in 1991, and Holder defended San Francisco’s homeless com- San Francisco’s fi rst African American Deputy munity, stating, “We’ve got several distinct groups Chief in 1998. here and the homeless people are not causing the As a police offi cer, Holder consistently demon- problems.” As an offi cer of SFPD, Holder consis- strated bravery and courage in the face of dan- tently made sure his opinions were known, and ger. On December 17, 1976, Offi cer Holder and acted upon them. This was most apparent in his his partner, Offi cer Greg Winters, were shot at sudden resignation in 2000. through their windshield while on patrol. On Sep- Holder’s voluntary removal from the force tember 16, 1983, Holder’s name appeared in the proved to be the result of a confl ict between him- San Francisco Examiner, as he embarked on a high- self and the Director of the Department of Hous- speed police chase to catch a man in a stolen car. ing and Urban Development, Ronnie Davis, and Holder additionally voiced his opinion in 1988 Mayor Willie Brown. As Deputy Chief, Holder concerning spikes in criminal activity at the hands felt that under Davis’ supervision, San Francisco’s of transients in the community. When interviewed Housing Authority was not doing enough to en- by the San Francisco Examiner, then Acting Captain force the new “one strike, you’re out” policy for

84 CHANGEMAKERS Richard Holder served as undying dedication to the law of the land as San Francisco’s fi rst African American Deputy Chief. the city’s fi rst African As a dedicated civil servant, Holder consistently used his position to protect San Francisco as he American Deputy Chief of saw best fi t. Police. He served in numerous capacities for —Ian Duke

SFPD for 28 years. Works Cited public housing. This program was a directive from “Bang-up fi nale to chase.” SF Examiner, 16 Sep. 1983. President that was adopted by San Egelko, Bob. “HUD’s Drug Rule Overturned / Francisco’s Housing and Urban Development of- Appeals Court Says ‘One-Strike’ Policy Evicts fi ce (HUD) in 1991. As stated by Clinton, the pol- Tenants Unfairly.” SFGate, 25 Jan. 2001, icy served as “a clear to drug dealers and to Gordon, Rachel. “1 Strike, You’re Out of Public gangs: If you break the law, you no longer have a Housing.” SFGate, 29 Mar. 1996. home in public housing. . . . One strike and you’re O’Connor, John D. and Philip Matier. “Vehicular homeless jam Haight.” SF Examiner, 10 Feb.1988. out.” It served as a gear in Clinton’s larger war on Ross, Phillip Matier Andrew. “Turns Out Deputy crime but was overturned by an appeals court on Chief Quit on His Own, After a Nudge.” SFGate, January 25, 2001. 14 June 2000, Nevertheless, Holder served as an enforcer of “Shot fi red at cops’ car, suspect quickly caught.” the law in 2000, when the “one strike, you’re out” SF Examiner, 17 Dec. 1976. policy was still legally enforced. During this time, Steve Rubenstein, Yumi Wilson.“Deputy Police Chief the SFPD’s narcotics unit sent a list of 233 individ- Resigns After 28 Years on Force.” SFGate, 13 June uals identifi ed as violators of this new policy to the 2000. San Francisco Housing Authority. Tension rose when the Housing Authority didn’t evict the ma- jority of the off enders, countering that only “16 of the addresses were on the agency’s property.” This confl ict resulted in rising tension between Director Davis, an ally of Mayor Brown, and Deputy Chief Holder. Holder however, chose to resign, ending his career on the force at 53 (Mattier and Ross). Holder’s legacy is undeniably one fi lled with controversy. However, citizens can never forget his

85 ELLA HILL HUTCH IMAGE

LLA HILL HUTCH committed her life to the strug- COURTESY Egle for civil rights and racial equality, serving as

the fi rst female African American Supervisor for the OF

city of San Francisco. Hutch was born in 1924, the SF

seventh of twelve children. She came to San Fran- CALL cisco from Florida after World War II, hoping to fi nd a diverse, equitable metropolis. She moved to the historic Fillmore District. At the time, the Fill- more was a culturally vibrant neighborhood full of Supervisor Hutch, with City Hall in the background. local businesses, jazz clubs, restaurants serving the African American community. It did not take long for Hutch to recognize the oppression and racism gether they formed the San Francisco branch of the black community faced within the Fillmore. the Congress of Racial Equality (CORE) in 1960. After the end of World War II, white workers CORE fought against housing discrimination and began displacing African American workers. The launched equal opportunity employment cam- unemployment rate within the black community paigns within the city. rose dramatically in the post-war period, as the Hutch became widely regarded as the moth- military-industrial complex had employed many er of the San Francisco civil rights movement. She members of the black community. African Amer- was seriously involved in local Democratic politics icans were restricted to working as postal workers, and elections. In 1966, she served on the Demo- longshoreman, and domestics. Most union work cratic County Central Committee. At the time, was out of reach for African Americans, with the the committee was considered the governing body sole exception of the International Longshoremen of the state party apparatus. Through hard work and Warehouse Union (ILWU). Hutch worked at and determination, her infl uence within the party the ILWU as a secretary and switchboard operator. grew. In 1974, Hutch was elected as the fi rst fe- Through her work at the ILWU, Hutch met Bob male director of (BART). Slattery, a strong civil rights and union activist. To- By 1976, she was elected as Vice President for the

86 CHANGEMAKERS Supervisor Hutch’s legacy is now Supervisor Hutch’s legacy is celebrated at the Ella Hill Hutch Community Center, located in the embodied in the Ella Hill Hutch Western Addition. It was dedicated by Mayor Diane Feinstein on June 11, 1981. The community center Community Center located in was opened with the goal of providing a safe place the Western Addition, where community members, particularly teenagers, could go after school. The center has off ered tutor- dedicated by Mayor Diane ing, life skills and professional development classes, Feinstein on June 11, 1981. and organized sports and recreational events. The Ella Hill Hutch Community Center has also creat- ed a computer lab where people can learn valuable BART board. In her time on the BART Board, she skills. Senior bridge clubs, parents groups, culinary advocated for lower fares and more access to public classes, and professional development seminars are transportation for minority communities. also hosted within the center. The center also fea- In 1978, Hutch decided to run for San Francis- tures a gymnasium refurbished by the Golden State co City Supervisor. She ran in District Four, encom- Warriors, a playground, community gardens, class- passing the area from Civic Center to the Western room spaces, a computer lab, and four tennis courts. Addition. Hutch was elected, becoming the fi rst Kids from the Western Addition participate at the African American female city supervisor. She was a Magic Zone, where Hutch’s image, along with near- pragmatic, moderate Democratic voice, but main- ly 100 other changemakers, grace the walls by the tained her commitment to civil rights. During her playground. She would surely be proud to see all of tenure she advocated for aff ordable housing, espe- the positive activities that take place at the commu- cially for poor and elderly residents and extended nity center. employment opportunities to at-risk teens. Although Hutch died at the young age of 57 in — Kiana Martinez, Matthew Chiodo, and her Western Addition apartment, her commitment Sophia Tarantino to civil rights and strengthening her community con- tinue to infl uence new generations. Her legacy as a Works Cited great leader in San Francisco is fi rmly cemented on the cherished grounds of the Western Addition. “Ella H. Hutch, 57, Dies; A San Francisco Offi cial.” The When Mayor Feinstein heard of Hutch’s passing, New York Times, 1981. Perkins, Laura. “San Francisco’s First Black Woman Super- she ordered the fl ags at all city offi ces to be fl own at visor Dies.” SFGate, 26 Feb. 2006. half mast for a month (“Ella H. Hutch”). On March 1, 1981, more than 1,000 mourners gathered at City Hall for a memorial service in Hutch’s honor (Per- kins).

87 IMAGE

MATTIE COURTESY

OF

JACKSON VINCE

MAGGIORA / SF

ATTIE JACKSON was born on October 3, 1921, CHRONICLE Min Blanchard, Texas. She grew up during the

Great Depression and was the second youngest of / seven siblings. Encouraged by her father to contin- POLARIS ue her education, she worked to develop import- ant leadership and organization skills at Johnson’s Businesswoman and Advocate for Worker’s Rights. (1977). Business College. After moving to San Francisco, she opened several small businesses and became an advocate for workers’ rights. San Francisco was much diff erent from what Jack- During the Great Depression, very few fam- son had experienced in Texas. In comparison, it ilies were able to send children to school, and it was easy to fi nd work as a black woman: “In Texas, was nearly unheard of to attend college. However, I never would have applied, and if I had, I wouldn’t Jackson and all of her siblings received higher edu- have gotten the job. This fair kind of treatment cation. She graduated from Phyllis Wheatley High is one of the reasons I’m sold on San Francisco” School, described by the Chronicle to be “the (Miller). Jackson later became the owner of the fi nest Negro high school in the South.” Her next Portrero Coff ee Shop and opened a bigger record step in education was going to Johnson’s Business store on Post Street. College. In an interview with UC Berkeley’s Re- Although Jackson never decided to pursue ad- gional Oral History Offi ce, Jackson explained that vocacy, her leadership, organizational skills, and she had “always wanted to be in business.” Her goal character naturally made her a good fi t and drew didn’t change when she followed her husband, John her to the part. She participated in her fi rst orga- P. Jackson to San Francisco in search of jobs. nized protest in 1947 after she accepted a job at In 1945, she arrived in the city a few months the big name textile factory, Koret of California. after John had found work. She continued earn- She’d been hired as a “blind stitch,” one who does ing her business degree at Heald Business College maintenance work on broken sewing machines. Al- in 1950, after which she opened her fi rst business, though she had worked with Ben Davis, another Groove Records on O’Farrell Street. The culture in textile corporation, her boss commented that she

88 CHANGEMAKERS didn’t have what it took. He said that she wasn’t union members well after retirement. She returned “going to stay here long.” In response to this com- to school and took classes related to her union work ment, she conducted her own research as to why and economics at the University of San Francisco. the factory production seemed to be lagging. She Jackson received many awards from churches, pol- discovered that many Koret employees were being iticians, and communities for her union activities. underpaid, yet management had denied any re- Her last business was a secondhand store, En Vogue sponsibility. The factory had already been union- Collectibles, on Hayes and Ashbury. ized, but Jackson and other underpaid Koret work- On February 7, 2009, Mattie Jackson passed ers decided that the best way to mobilize would be away. She is survived by her daughter and grand- to organize their own strike. After back-and-forth children. From her humble beginnings in rural negotiations, the management eventually agreed Texas, Jackson’s uncompromising and assertive to pay for the missing wages. The strike lead to a personality led to her become one of the most re- grand victory. markable labor activists and entrepreneurs in San In 1974, Jackson caught the attention of the Francisco. Due to her vocal dissatisfaction with un- International Ladies’ Garment Workers’ Union just labor standards, it comes as no surprise that (IL-GWU) and joined the Pacifi c Northwest Dis- Jackson earned a place within the high ranks of trict Council (PNDC) which was a part of the ILG- city politics. San Francisco is honored to have such WU During her time there she worked closely with a strong and innovative woman as a part of its vi- San Francisco Mayors Moscone, Feinstein, and brant history. Agnos. Jackson’s involvement in the political realm not only focused on the commercial side of her —Daaniyal Mulyadi business, but on the fundamental ethics between workers and managers. Appointed Vice President Works Cited of the Commission on the Status of Women, com- missioner for the Human Rights Commission, and “Mattie Jackson.” [Obituary.] SF Chronicle, Feb 16 President of the Board of Permit Appeals, Jackson 2009. pressed for more fair treatment for all. “Mattie Jackson “Labor Leader, Business Woman, Public Servant and Activist” conducted by Nancy From textile worker to full-time advocate, Jack- Quam-Wickham 1996, Regional Oral History son had chosen a career that vastly changed her Offi ce, The , University of life. By January of 1976, Jackson was appointed to California, Berkeley, 2013 the Board of Permits and Appeals, serving under the three mayorships of Moscone, Feinstein, and Agnos. She continued to remain politically active, particularly in regards to protecting the interests of her union, and remained in touch with her fellow

89 CULTURAL GERALDINE IMAGE

COURTESY

AND

HISTORICAL

JOHNSON OF

AFRICAN

SOCIETY

AMERICAN

ERALDINE JOHNSON was born in New Orleans Gin 1933. At 29, she and her family left the city Geraldine Johnson had a signifi cant role in the creation of the due to an economic downturn that left her father African American Arts and Culture Complex. unemployed. They moved to San Francisco, where Johnson quickly became a prominent activist in the relied on those subsidies. Sensing a need in the com- city’s labor movement. By the 1980s, Johnson had munity, Johnson decided to start the San Francis- not only become a member of the San Francisco co Housing Development Corp., which today also Labor Council, but she had also started her own works with the BRIDGE organization. These orga- chapter of the Coalition for Black Trade Union- nizations provide aff ordable and subsidized housing ists, which was dedicated to the rights of African for working class people. Overall, they have devel- American laborers. The recession of the 1970s hit oped over 400 aff ordable homes in San Francisco hard, however, and many people lost their jobs or and are developing hundreds more. businesses. The African American population, es- Johnson believed that there were underlying pecially those living in the Western Addition, were factors that interfered with the African American disproportionately hurt due to the redevelopment population’s ability to seek out housing resourc- plans of Justin Herman and the San Francisco Re- es, saying, “African Americans have been . . . so development Agency. Johnson’s work with groups caught up in the day-to-day issues, the day-to-day like the Coalition for Black Trade Unionists helped struggles, that questions of planning could never to boost black workers’ wages and consequently supplant the immediacy of those needs” (McGov- improve the economy in San Francisco. ern). Instead of being discouraged by the lack of During his fi rst term, President involvement in her cause, Johnson decided to work announced that “subsidies for the working class, in harder. She wanted community input because she regard to homes would be cut, and continue to be saw that people were having to move out of San cut,” which worried many Fillmore residents who Francisco due to the increase in the cost of living.

90 CHANGEMAKERS Stephen McGovern remembered Johnson’s house her community and given over 20 awards through- calls fondly, saying, “Johnson would talk with res- out her lifetime for her outstanding work. She was idents about planning issues and build on their admired by many for her tenacity and dedication growing skepticism about urban development by to improving her community. getting them to ask ‘What’s in it for my commu- In remembrance of her life, BRIDGE Housing nity?’ ” (154). After the A1 and A2 redevelopment renamed one of their facilities “Geraldine Johnson plans—which included very little community in- Manor.” Cheryl Towns, who worked with John- put and were widely considered to be ineff ective— son, refl ected, “She was so driven, she’d drive you” Johnson made it her priority to ensure that voices (Wagner). The January after her passing, Johnson from the community were heard. was honored at the very Martin Luther King, Jr., In addition to her labor rights and aff ordable birthday celebration that she had established, and housing eff orts, Johnson played a signifi cant role an award in her name was given to former Mayor in the creation of the African American Arts and Art Agnos, whom she had worked with during the Culture Complex, located in the Fillmore district. last segment of Western Addition redevelopment It was important to her to create a community to ensure that African Americans had majority space for African American people in San Fran- participation and control. cisco. The AAACC is now a highly regarded non- Geraldine Johnson was a fearless community profi t and the only city-owned arts and cultural advocate who is remembered fondly by all who center dedicated to African American culture, tra- know her story. ditions, and values. In 1983 Johnson organized a West Coast —Delaney Miller march and rally which brought more than 70,000 people together to honor the 20th anniversary of Works Cited the 1963 March on Washington. Committed to “Geraldine Johnson.” Bridge Housing. honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Johnson later McGovern, Stephen. The Politics of Downtown Develop- founded the San Francisco Martin Luther King, ment: Dynamic Political Cultures in San Francisco and Jr., Civic Committee which changed the name Washington: Part 3. University Press of Kentucky. of South Drive (located in ) to Smooke, Dyan Ruiz and Joseph. “Developers Aren’t Martin Luther King, Jr., Drive. On the committee, Going to Solve the Housing Crisis in San she also established an MLK birthday celebration Francisco.” Truthout. and founded the MLK scholarship, which spon- Wagner, Venise. “S.F. Civil Rights, Labor Activist sors high school students on educational exchange Geraldine Johnson.” SFGate, 14 Nov. 1997. trips. Pimsleur, Joel. “Obituary Breakfast to Geraldine Johnson died at the age of 64 on Honor Community Leader Geraldine Johnson.” SFGate, 16 Jan. 1998. November 12, 1997. She was widely respected in

91 REV. IMAGE

CALVIN COURTESY

OF

JONES, JR. PROVIDENCE

BAPTIST NATIVE OF SAN FRANCISCO, Calvin Jones,

A Jr., is known for his passionate work as CHURCH a minister and philanthropist to families and youth involved or aff ected by crime and poverty. Son of the famous trombone musician Calvin Jones, Sr., and Julia Jones, Calvin Jr. graduat- Rev. Calvin Jones Jr., January 26th, 2015 ed from Balboa high school in 1969 where he played football and led the team to consecutive ed his humanitarian endeavors by forming the Thanksgiving Day titles in 1967 and 1968. He Providence Foundation of San Francisco: a col- scored 42 touchdowns in 21 varsity games and laborative foundation with the church to provide continued to play football as the defensive back services that include a nutrition program, a home- for the Broncos until 1976. Calvin, Jr., less shelter, a summer day-camp, an after-school was introduced into the University of Washing- tutorial program, and the Providence Opportuni- ton’s Football Hall of Fame and was chosen as ties Program. Providence Baptist Church’s website the First Team All-American describes their pastor as a man who “ministers Defensive Back. Calvin Jr.’s teammate Kevin with an open mind. He sees a need and creates Hicks describes Calvin as “a juking and dancing the solution to fi ll the .” As a shining exam- runner, who would leave defenders tackling air.” ple of faith-based community outreach, in 2004 Calvin, Jr., earned a Bachelor of Arts De- Rev. Jones created a youth outreach program in gree in Social Welfare from the University of the San Francisco Juvenile Hall where he minis- Washington in 1975 and a Master of Divinity tered to children and their families to create better Degree from in 1983. He communication and life-altering skills. In an article then went on to lead one of the largest church written by the San Francisco Chronicle, Calvin, Jr., is congregations in San Francisco as pastor of dubbed as the “funeral preacher” for his dedica- Providence Baptist Church on McKinnon Ave- tion to serving those families grief stricken in the nue in Ingleside. In 1997 Calvin, Jr., kickstart- wake of San Francisco violence.

92 CHANGEMAKERS Rev. Jones continued his service to the vulnera- ther’s, Rev. Calvin Jones, Sr.’s, musical legacy by ble community of San Francisco with the San Fran- cataloging all of his father’s music “to put out there cisco Redevelopment Agency, the Mayor’s Offi ce so the world can hear him.” In 1977, Calvin, Jr., of Housing, San Francisco Housing Development was invited by President Gerald R. Ford to be the Corporation and others in providing seniors in the Keynote Speaker at the Prayer Breakfast at the Bayview–Hunters Point community with aff ordable White House. Rev. Jones has also received numer- housing. Completed in 2008, the multi-use facility ous awards and recognitions of his changemaking includes community and commercial rental space, work: CityFlight’s “10 Most Infl uential African a parking facility, a Providence Foundation Admin- Americans in the Bay Area”; Distinguished Clergy istration Offi ce and a communal rooftop garden. A of the Year, Alliance of Black School Educators of fi rm believer in community involvement, Rev. Jones’ SF, and has been Honored by the San Francisco engagement is outstanding: he was a Board Mem- Chapter of the NAACP. Calvin, Jr., has also spo- ber of the Tabernacle Community Development ken on numerous national platforms. Corporation, Commissioner of National Baptist After 26 years of service, Calvin, Jr., retired as Convention USA Prison Ministry, founding Board minister at the Providence Baptist Church. Howev- Member of the San Francisco Housing Develop- er, his faith based passion for serving his community ment Corporation, founding Executive Director of is far from over. Most recently in 2016, Jones, Jr., as the Family School of San Francisco, and a member the Vice President of the Tabernacle Community of the Mayor of San Francisco Citizens Advisory Development Corporation, a California nonprof- Committee for the Hunters Point naval shipyard. it corporation, entered into a $47 million contract The Family School, located on Fillmore between to rehabilitate and convert Westside Courts from Fell and Oak, provides education and childcare for public housing to a HUD rental assistance contract. women on welfare; women from the projects, with Westside Courts was particularly hard-hit by rede- chemical dependency (although they must remain velopment in the 1960s and has a controversial past; clean to stay at the Family School), and with his- this project is aimed at challenging the consequences tories of domestic violence can all fi nd help here. of this history and is one of the most recent achieve- While the women study for their GED upstairs, ments of Jones Jr.’s impressive body of work. children are taken care of below among friendly people and optimistic decorations. Rev. Jones, Jr., —Hannah Shepherd founder and director of the school said to the San Francisco Chronicle: “$3,400 keeps a woman enrolled Works Cited here for a year. It costs $30,000 to take that same “Denver Broncos Greats . . . By The Numbers: #26.” women and lock her up for using crack. One guess Mile High Report, 14 Apr. 2011, where the money’s going.” “Reverend Calvin Jones, Jr.—Senior Pastor.” Jones, Jr., has also worked to preserve his fa- Providence Baptist Church.

93 REV. CALVIN

JONES, SR. IMAGE

COURTESY

EVEREND CALVIN JONES, SR. was born to Ed- OF

die and Josephine Jones on March 28, 1920 NEW

R in Louisiana. His family moved to Arkansas, where BAYVIEW Calvin attended school in Magnolia. At the age

of thirteen, Jones joined the Home Near Baptists Church after he was baptised. Calvin Jones later joined the United States Newspaper clipping of Rev. Calvin Jones Sr. in 1994. Army and was honorably discharged in 1946. Af- terward, he was employed by United Airlines for involved in the construction of the recreational almost two decades. Within that same year, Jones and education center and the establishment of the married his fi rst wife, Corine Johnson, on January community outreach program. 6th. They were married for forty-four years where A leader during extraordinarily painful times, they had three children until her death. He even- Rev. Jones delivered the eulogy for Alvert Joe tually married his second wife, Horsea Matin, on Linthcome, who was killed by a police offi cer after August 8, 1992. stealing a car. This eulogy was delivered to a crowd A pious and religious man, Reverend Calvin including Linthcome’s loved ones and members of Jones dedicated his life to service and preaching the Black Panther Party. In his sermon, he called at various churches. In 1947, Jones was active in for refl ection from the congregation, stating, “We his community by serving as vice president of the are here today for something that could have been Senior Usher Board, president of the Male Cho- avoided . . . Who is actually responsible for this rus, president of the Brotherhood, and treasurer young man’s death? We could name a few includ- of the Trustee Board. He was offi cially ordained ing the young man himself.” He reminded the as a deacon in 1960, and was elected as pastor for community to reconsider what is truly important the Providence Baptist Church on July 28, 1962. in life: a car or the precious life of a loved one. Devoted to this parish and its community, he was He invited those present to refl ect on this tragic

94 CHANGEMAKERS Rev. Calvin Jones, Sr. , made a in his community in San Francisco. His achievements as a reverend and activist mark both on his community left indelible marks in the hearts of the people he touched with his powerful sermons and the com- and congregation. He served as munity he left behind. Pastor for 28 years at His son, Rev. Calvin Jones, Jr., continues on his legacy as the senior pastor at the same Provi- Providence Baptist Church. dence Baptist Church.

—Kimberly McAllister and Madison Owens situation and led the community in mourning the Works Cited premature loss of Alvert Linthcome (“Panther at Rite for Slain Youth”). Alexander, Dick. “Trail of Carter Funds to Clergy Rev. Calvin Jones was a pastor for 28 years be- Turns up 2 New Names,” SF Chronicle, fore he retired on December 31, 1991, and received 14 August 1976 “Celebration of Life: Reverend Calvin Jones, Sr.,” New the title “Pastor Emeritus,” honoring his service to Bayview; 17 June 1994. the community. Rev. Jones’ ministry of service did “Panthers at rite for Slain Youth,” SF Chronicle, not end after his retirement, however, as he con- 8 April 1969. tinued on to serve as the Moderator for Home Washington, Huel. “Hundreds Mourn At Youth’s and Foreign Mission District Association. He was Funeral.” SF Chronicle, 8 April 1969. also vice president of the California State Baptist Convention Congress of Christian Education and worked with the San Francisco Baptist Minister’s Council. Although Rev. Calvin Jones kept busy through service to his community, he returned to a life of ministry as an interim pastor for the Saint John Baptist Church of Richmond, California on February 1st, 1991. He was later chosen to be their offi cial pastor on May 28, 1993. He formally re- tired on June 1st, 1994. Rev. Calvin Jones’ ministry lasted for more than 30 years before he passed away June 8, 1994 at Veteran’s Administration Hospital, San Francis- co. Reverend Calvin Jones forged a notable legacy

95 IMAGE

LOUISE COURTESY

OF

JONES SF

GATE / KIM

KEMENICH

OUISE OOKS ONES

C J was born on October 1, / L1927, in Thibodaux, Louisiana, during times POLARIS of intense racial segregation (SF Gate). Growing up in a heavily segregated school in the south, Jones recalled that her school textbooks were always sec- Louise Jones was a respected educator in San Francisco. ond-hand and “tattered and torn” (SF Gate). How- ever, this did not stop her from receiving a quality education. Jones noted that her teachers growing up, “instilled something in me that I didn’t realize in San Francisco. While serving as principal, she was being instilled—just to believe in every child, managed to transform the school and help alleviate and make sure they got the very best” (SF Gate). many of the problems it faced. The morals and values, ingrained in Jones by her Jones was able to relate to her students in a way teachers, would greatly infl uence her motivation to that many other teachers could not. Raised by her help students in her future career. aunt and older cousin, Louise did not grow up in a After graduating from high school, honored wealthy household, but the value of education was with being the school’s valedictorian, Louise Jones instilled in her from a young age. She explained to would go on to receive a bachelor’s and a master’s SF Gate that despite the circumstances, “there was degree in education from San Francisco State Uni- the expectation that I was going to college.” Because versity (SF Gate). Once she earned her degrees, of Jones’ background, she was able to understand she began teaching in schools around San Francis- what many of her students from lower socio-eco- co and would eventually work her way up through nomic backgrounds were experiencing. the school system to become the district’s assistant One of Jones’ major accomplishments during superintendent for elementary instruction. Before her career was taking the lead on the “Special Plan assuming this role, Jones would become principal for Bayview-Hunters Point Schools,” which im- at Washington Carver Elementary School in Bay- proved the funding for Carver and other schools in view–Hunters Point. When the school fi rst opened the area. As SF Gate notes, the “initiative provid- in 1974, it was one of the most segregated schools ed millions of dollars every year for the schools in

96 CHANGEMAKERS the neighborhood.” The improved funding resulted ues to make an impact in the community through in smaller class sizes for students, more training for the generations. In May 2018 Louise Cooks Jones teachers, teaching aids in the classroom, and bet- passed away. She is remembered by the community ter technology for the schools (SF Gate). Another as an individual dedicated to the improvement of aspect of the Special Plan allowed Jones to hire all education for marginalized students. Her work as a the teachers who worked at Washington Carver Ele- teacher, principal, and assistant superintendent was mentary School. The primary focus of this plan was focused on improving the education in San Francis- to turn the school into a model institution. co in schools that have large populations of low-in- The plan had a signifi cant eff ect upon the chil- come students. Her legacy lives on in the students dren’s test scores as well. The report notes: “Third who she came into contact with during her career. graders scored 10 percentage points higher in read- ing than they had at the start of the Special Plan in —Licette Renteria and Zachary James 1983 . . . In math, they scored 4 percentage points higher” (SF Gate). Jones’ instrumental role in the Works Cited program fostered an atmosphere where the students could remain dedicated to their studies. Washington Asimov, Nanette and Jill Tucker. “Bayview Class Overcoming Hurdles 13 Years Later.” SFGate Carver Elementary School graduate Ja’Bar Gibson 31 May 2009 explained, “She didn’t allow fi ghting. She made me Asimov, Nanette and Tucker, Jill. “Carver Key to feel that anyone could learn, and that we were all Bold Plan for Black Children.” SFGate, 31 May 2009. smart. She believed in all of us” (SF Gate). “Louise Jones.” Legacy.com. May 2018. Jones also implemented various programs at Komenich, Kim. “Former Carver School Principal Washington Carver Elementary School, including Louise Jones, now retired, sits in her San programs to build self-esteem, establish language Francisco, Calif., home on Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2009.” facility, and develop a model for cooperative learn- SF Chronicle, 27 Jan, 2009. ing. Jones also emphasized the importance of pa- “Meeting Information.” City and County of San rental involvement in their children’s education. Francisco, 3 March 2003. Milken Educator Awards. “Educators Profi le: Louise Jones earned numerous awards and accolades Jones (CA’90)”. Milken Family Foundation, 2017. throughout her 43-year career in education, in- “Principal.” SFGate 31 May 2009. cluding: Educator of the Year (Milken Foundation), Selby, Don. K.C. “Jones’ Sister Star Cager, Too.” Distinguished School Award (four times), Out- SF Examiner, 3 Feb. 1956. standing Leadership Award, Educational Achieve- “Obituary.” SF Chronicle. 13 May 2018. ment Award (Phi Delta Kappa), and Excellence in Education Award (State of California Senate). Louise Jones was infl uential for generations of young students in San Francisco, and contin-

97 FRED JORDAN IMAGE

COURTESY

OF

REDERICK E. JORDAN, also known as Fred Jor- THE

Fdan, is a civil engineer, businessman, activist, SAN

veteran, and author. He also serves on various FRANCISCO boards and business networks, like the National

Black Chamber of Commerce. BAY

Jordan received his bachelor’s degree in civil VIEW engineering from Howard University. After serv- ing in the Vietnam War, Jordan attended North- eastern University in Boston to earn his Master’s Photograph of Fred Jordon from the Bay View newspaper. degree in engineering. During his fi rst year at Northeastern, Bechtel Corporation, a global engi- neering company, approached him with a job off er pany has completed more than 1,000 projects in in California. He took it, also transferring to Stan- the United States, Africa, and Central America. ford University to complete his Master’s degree. Notable projects include construction of the ren- In 1969, after receiving his engineering license, ovated San Francisco International Airport, the he and three other engineers formed the company expansion of the Oakland International Airport, Jordan, Johns, Mathis, & Pierce. They did many and the Charles P. Howard Container Terminal redevelopment projects in predominantly black Wharf design, which is ranked the best container communities that other white engineers weren’t facility in the world and has inspired many other comfortable working in. These projects took place engineering projects worldwide. all across the country—in San Francisco, East St. In September 1998, Jordan published a book Louis, on the south side of Chicago, and in Se- titled The Lynching of the American Dream. In his attle. In 1974, Jordan founded his own company, book, Jordan advocated for affi rmative action for F.E. Jordan Associates, Inc., in San Francisco. all minority groups to counteract bias in educa- The company, which is currently active, special- tion. He wrote this book in response to legislative izes in engineering, environmental sciences, and actions trying to end affi rmative action. Jordan construction management. In 35 years, the com- was not going to sit back and watch others suff er,

98 CHANGEMAKERS Fred Jordan, engineer and the country, currently designated to stretch from Merced to Bakersfi eld. entrepreneur, founded the Because of his immense dedication toward helping others and his impact on the black com- California Business Council for munity Fred Jordan is known as one of the many Equal Opportunity. changemakers on the walls of the Ella Hill Hutch Community Center. so he took the initiative to spread awareness with —Rosie Patel, Madison Owens, and Sayeh Jafari his writing. In 2008, it was reported that he was working on a second book. In addition to his writ- ing and engineering accomplishments, Jordan has Works Cited also fought discrimination against black business owners. In 2004, Jordan worked with John Wil- Bizjak, Tony, et al. “No, Gov. Gavin Newsom Didn’t Kill liam Templeton, president and executive editor of High-Speed Rail. But What’s His Plan B?” Sacramento Bee. 18 Feb. 2019 eAccess Corporation, to cooperate in having the “Charles P. Howard Container Terminal.” NBA Engineering. month of August recognized as National Black 2006. Business Month. The overall goal of the month “Frederick E. Jordan.” TANCon 2008. The African Network. is to encourage people to make a purchase from 1 Nov. 2008. Jordan, Fred. “Black Firms on Winning Team for $1.5 Billion any business owned by a black person so that peo- California High-Speed Rail Contract.” San Francisco Bay ple become more supportive and aware of these View. 30 Dec. 2014. businesses and help black communities thrive eco- Reed, William. “August Is National Black Business Month.” nomically. Although recognition has not yet been Hudson Valley Press. 19 Aug. 2015. consistent, there has been increasing support for Roberson, Jason Evers. “Celebrating Black Business.” . 24 Mar. 2013. the idea since it was fi rst declared. Seligman, Katherine. “King’s.” SFGate. 19 Jan. 1997. Today Jordan continues to advocate for the rights of others. He founded the California Busi- ness Council for Equal Opportunity and has been on the board of directors of the San Francisco Black Chamber of Commerce, the National Black Chamber of Commerce, Bay Area Urban League, Inc., and Greenlining Institute. Jordan’s engineering company is still working on major projects, including the California High- Speed Rail project, the fi rst high-speed rail line in

99 SAM IMAGE

JORDAN COURTESY

OF

SAM

JORDAN ’ S

AM JORDAN exemplifi ed diversity in his many accom- BAR

Splishments and his openness to others. Born and AND

raised in Dallas, Texas, Jordan moved to San Francisco in GRILL 1948 to pursue his boxing career. His charismatic nature quickly sparked a following and a nickname “Singing Sam” because he would often sing to the crowd after he won a match. His drive and talent was easily noticeable, Sam Jordan seeing as he won the Golden Gloves light heavyweight championship within his fi rst year in San Francisco (Ne- vius). Unfortunately, his boxing career came to an early would set up a small table at the front of the bar and end when his vision started deteriorating due to cataracts personally serve them himself (Nevius). (Tlumak). Though one career ended, Sam Jordan allo- In 1963 at 38 years old Sam Jordan became the fi rst cated his drive and passion to other areas. Including his black man to run for mayor of San Francisco. He ran work on the board of directors of the Hunters Point Co- as a statement against racial discrimination, to fi ght for Op, and specifi cally his interest in fi nding solutions to better police protection, and to address San Francisco’s the large drug problem that occurred in Hunters Point civil rights problems (SF Examiner). While campaign- (Tlumak). Being a part of the Hunters Point Co-Op was ing he said, “All over America the Negro is waking up. the impetus of his career as a community leader. There may be more bloodshed, and it could happen in A few years later in 1959, Sam Jordan opened his San Francisco—but not if we have a Mayor who hon- historic bar and restaurant “Sam Jordan’s Tavern” (Bow- estly believes that all people are equal and should have cock). This bar and restaurant housed many famous the same opportunities” (SF Examiner.) His plan for San singers such as, Big Mama Thornton and Sugar Pie De- Francisco also involved improvement of education and Santo (Nevius). At the tavern, the community came to- housing progress (SF Examiner). Jordan was also planning gether to sing, dance, eat and to simply have a good time. on appointing people from all nationalities into govern- We can also see Sam Jordan had a big heart and genuine ment positions (SF Examiner). His plans and ideas mainly care for all of his community members (Nevius). When- appealed to progressive ideologies that uplifted minority ever someone couldn’t aff ord to pay for food, Jordan groups, and his campaign was revolutionary for his time.

100 CHANGEMAKERS Sam Jordan’s restaurant was all of Jordan’s campaign records disappeared (Hinckle). When asked about why the FBI saw Jordan as a threat designated a historical he stated, “I still can’t see where the FBI considered me any sort of political threat. If you ask me, doing all that landmark by Mayor Ed Lee to me was racist, pure and simple” (Hinkle). Though in 2013. Jordan had the FBI against him, he was able to come in fourth place in the mayoral election, which is a huge accomplishment for a black man during a time of much Unfortunately he lost the election and placed in fourth discrimination. out of eight candidates. Even though Jordan lost he was Sadly in 2003 Sam Jordan passed away. His restau- still able to be a voice for minority communities and a rant, however, has managed to stay open and is current- voice for social justice. Jordan did not let his loss dull his ly run by his son Sam, and in 2013 his restaurant was continued drive and passion. designated as a historical landmark by Mayor Ed Lee. It was later discovered, in 1976, that the FBI tried Sam Jordan will forever be remembered as an infl u- to sabotage Jordan’s mayoral campaign by trying to as- ential man who gave back to his community. From his sociate him with Socialist Workers Party, SWP (Irving). boxing days to his short political career, he was able to In 1978 there was an article written in the San Francisco shed light on important social justice issues within San Chronicle by Warren Hinckle that revealed the discovery Francisco. His ability to keep moving forward and to of memos written for the Federal Bureau of Investiga- fi ght for a more equal and just society for minorities will tion (FBI) offi ce in San Francisco leading to J. Edgar go down in history. Hoover—the fi rst director of the FBI—trying to fi nd ways to derail Jordan’s campaign and image. Hoover’s — Anthony Norman, Juliet Baires, Ashley Cruz, and idea was to write an anonymous letter to Jordan from a Kendra Wharton longshoreman that would “warn Jordan about the Com- mies in his midst in a way that would turn his campaign Works Cited into a black-Trot battleground” (Hinckle). However, this idea proved ineff ective because Jordan simply threw Bowcock, Robert H. Butchertown: A Collage of a San Francisco away the letter after it was found (Hinkle). Other things Institution during 1850–1969. Falcon Books, 2004. that happened during Jordan’s campaign, perhaps be- Hinckle, Warren. “FBI’s ‘Dirty Tricks’ in SF.” SF Chronicle, 13 cause of the FBI interference, was the harassment by the July 1978. Alcoholic Beverage Control organization that claimed Nevius, C.W. “Sam Jordan’s Bar gets landmark status.” SF they were getting calls from black women stating that Gate , 24 Jan. 2013, Tlumak, Joel. “Sam Jordan—the Man To Call at Hunters Jordan was serving alcohol to minors (Hinckle). Also, Point. ” SF Chronicle. 22 February 1972. some of Jordan’s military friends told him that Sam Jordan’s Tavern was considered “off limits,” which was not true (Hinckle). Additionally, that same year in 1963

101 IMAGE

JUDGE COURTESY

OF

UC

JOSEPH GAMBLE BERKELEY

BANCROFT

KENNEDY LIBRARY / ONLINE UDGE JOSEPH GAMBLE KENNEDY was born in Ten-

Jnessee and earned his B.A. in his home state. His ARCHIVE career fi rst started as a teacher and then served as a

OF

Second Lieutenant in the Air Force during World Judge Joseph Gamble Kennedy in the early seventies. CALIFORNIA War II. After the war, Kennedy moved to San Fran- for exceptional service in community action as the

cisco and enrolled at Hastings College of Law. He chairman of San Francisco’s Economic Opportuni- earned his law degree in 1949 and quickly entered ty Council (EOC). into private practice in the Bay Area. He was active He also served as the President of the San in the NAACP, Democratic politics, and Methodist Francisco Council of Churches, the President of church groups when he fi rst entered the political are- the EOC, Chairman of the War on Poverty Agen- na. He soon became the Assistant Public Defender cy, and he was involved with the NAACP. Judge of San Francisco and held the position for nine years Kennedy was a civil rights advocate, a civil lead- before being named to the State Industrial Accidents Commission by Governor —the fi rst Af- er, and a grand jurist who provided effi cient and rican American to hold that position. He was lat- purposeful programs to the city to help low-in- er appointed as Municipal Court Judge from 1969 come residents of color. until his election to the Superior Court Bench in Safety and protection for San Franciscans 1972. Judge Kennedy usually dealt with cases in ar- was his priority. The San Francisco EOC’s pur- eas such as the Tenderloin. Judge Joseph Kennedy’s pose was to combat poverty by creating programs passion for justice in many aspects helped him gain that help the poor and focus on moving to elim- popularity and respect. Although he was not the fi rst inate the causes, conditions, and impact of sys- African American presiding judge of the Municipal temic poverty. The EOC program helped branch Court (the fi rst being John W. Bussey in1960), he out the War on Poverty program in San Francis- won many awards and was recognized for the work co, which Judge Kennedy and Attorney Gardin- he did for his community. On December 3, 1971, er Johnson helped run. Judge Kennedy was the Kennedy was honored by the federal government chairman of the War on Poverty program while

102 CHANGEMAKERS Attorney Gardiner Johnson served as the pres- contributions to the cause of humanitarianism.” At ident. Kennedy made sure that disadvantaged the awards ceremony, Judge Kennedy remarked: “I communities received fair treatment and repre- believe I can contribute [most] on the bench. The sentation, regardless of their socioeconomic sta- bench must be completely representative if it is to tus. Judge Kennedy told the council’s executive off er justice to all our citizens. There must be true committee he also planned to reorganize two representation of the community in which we live— Economic Opportunity Council departments. not to slant the law but to off er a diff erent dimension Kennedy wanted a budget of $4.6 million but to it.” Kennedy was also recognized for his signifi - he knew it was unrealistic. The EOC had asked cant contributions to the Hunters Point Girls Club, for $750,000 in federal funds to provide summer the Zoological Society, the Friends of Park and Rec- jobs and had received only $508,000. Judge Ken- reation, the Council of Churches, the Friends of nedy worked with what the EOC had received. Langley Porter, and the NAACP. Kennedy also wanted to focus on the youth of Kennedy died in April 1979 at the age of 62 San Francisco through the EOC and opened a from emphysema. Thanks to the many things he recreational center, the Girl’s Club. Kennedy ac- accomplished during his life, the Judge G. Kenne- cepted $875,000 in federal funds to launch all-year dy Foundation was created. The objective of the Head Start programs for 600 children. Kennedy foundation is to provide a scholarship fund which was also granted $825,000 to provide summer work recognizes student achievements—especially those programs for about 1,500 high schoolers. who are less advantaged in the Bay Area. His lega- Although Judge Kennedy had great intentions cy lives on both in his foundation, his remarkable when taking on these projects, the heavy stress took changes to the EOC, and as a changemaker fea- its toll. Kennedy tried to help every citizen in San tured on the Inspiration murals. Francisco but due to low-budget federal grants, he — Ashley Cruz, Ceejay Garcia, Madison Owens, and could not reach as many community members as he Sophia Tarantino wished. Kennedy quit the EOC during a stormy ses- sion when a crowd of Bayview–Hunter Point youth Works Cited disrupted an EOC executive meeting (Johanesen). Shortly after, many members of the EOC helped “A Change on Head Start.” SF Examiner. May 18, 1967 successfully convinced Kennedy to come back, how- Hastings Alumni Bulletin Vol. XVIII, No.2 (1974). ever. While the EOC ultimately lasted about six Johanesen, Harry. “ ‘I’ve had it’—Kennedy resigns as years, it brought many signifi cant positive changes. EOC Chief.” SF Examiner 29 Aug.1968 The Alumni Association of UC Hastings Law Judge Kennedy’s Christmas Message. SF Examiner. 1968. College presented its 1972–73 Award of the Year “Lack of Staff Controls Hurts Poverty War.” SF to Judge Kennedy in recognition of “his outstand- Examiner. Aug. 9, 1967. ing service to the and his unending

103 IAMGE

WILLIE COURTESY

OF

B. KENNEDY GAMMA

PHI

DELTA

ASSOCIATION ILLIE B. KENNEDY is remembered through- Wout San Francisco for her eff ervescence and determination. She spent “60 years as a political and social activist,” serving as a member and trust- Willie B. Kennedy served on the Board of Supervisors ed advisor to several boards, organizations, and and the BART board. commissions in San Francisco. Her eff orts provid- ed support and hope to low-income communities During this time in San Francisco’s history, there of color (Congressional Report). was a lack of willingness to off er rental occupancies Kennedy was born on November 5, 1923, in to African Americans in certain neighborhoods. Terrell, Texas. She and her family lived in a farm- This forced a majority of the black community into house complete with a water well and a wood-burn- the Western Addition. After World War II, news of ing stove, a truly “rustic existence” (Coté). Willie’s San Franciscan “slums” became sensationalized. humble upbringing fostered her interest in pursuing Newspaper campaigns depicted communal deteri- a career in advocacy. She attended high school in oration and specifi cally reported extreme cases of Dallas and became an exceptional student. One hardship. This representation of “blight” seemed to year after graduating high school, she married Paul initiate a self-fulfi lling prophecy among the residents L. Hooey, with whom she raised a daughter named and business owners of the Fillmore. Demolition Paulette M. Hooey. Willie eventually settled in San loomed, and external pressures made it diffi cult to Francisco with her young daughter after the couple’s remain in the Fillmore. Those who attempted to stay divorce (Coté). were met by development stalls at every turn, forcing After arriving in San Francisco, Willie met and them out regardless. A harrowing combination of fell in love with a young, handsome civil rights at- racism, neglect, and systematic decline would lead torney named Joseph G. Kennedy, who would later the San Francisco Redevelopment Agency to fully serve as a federal judge. They were both passionate take control in 1949 (Brahinksy). political fi gures in the social scene of San Francis- In 1953, the fi rst house was demolished in an co’s Western Addition neighborhood. Willie and expansive urban renewal plan that would begin with Joseph married in 1955 (Metcalfe). the Western Addition. The public pushback was

104 CHANGEMAKERS loud and immediate, but the government continued boards before the end of her life including the Bay- to spearhead its oppressive authority. In 1959, Justin view–Hunters Point Multipurpose Senior Services, Herman initiated the widening of Geary Street to an Inc. Kennedy tried feverishly to actualize expressway, creating a clear and tangible division of of the late Dr. George Davis, original executive di- race and class. The San Francisco Redevelopment rector, to build a new senior citizen center in the Fill- Agency assigned several infl uential African Ameri- more (Bayview). Toward the latter end of her life cans to the board of commissions. Willie B. Ken- she was also president of the Southeast Community nedy, alongside other pillars of the Fillmore com- Facility Commission, which continues to provide aid munity, fought hard to ensure that urban renewal in employment opportunities, tax preparation, and would bring about positive change for communities voter registration services (Southeast). of color and for the city as a whole. However, the Willie B. Kennedy’s fi nal gesture would also be only concession made as a response to one of the steeped in advocacy. Two days before her death, biggest pushouts in modern American history would Willie and many community members fi nally broke be ghettoized, low-income public housing facilities, ground on the Hunters Point shipyard redevelop- which many black residents of the Fillmore still oc- ment project, which is presided over by her com- cupy today (Brahinsky). pany, W.B. Kennedy and Associates Consulting Co. After the death of fellow Western Addition ac- She passed away at the age of 90 on June 28, 2013, tivist, Ella Hill Hutch in 1981, Kennedy was recom- from a heart attack (Metcalfe). Willie B. Kennedy’s mended to take her place on San Francisco’s Board legacy extends far beyond tireless dedication and of Supervisors as the third African American wom- work—caring so deeply for her community, Kenne- an ever elected. During her 15 years on the board, dy fought for change until her last days. she co-wrote a law that allocated certain city con- tracts for minority- and women-owned businesses. —Taylor Hazley, Meisy Tunay, and Savannah Miranda Kennedy also passed legislation that forbade San Francisco from conducting business with South Af- Works Cited rica in response to the apartheid era (Coté). Rachel Brahinsky. “Hush Puppies: Communalist After resigning from the city’s board in 1996, she Politics, and Demolition Governance.” Ten Years was appointed to the BART board of directors. She That Shook the City: San Francisco,1968-1978. Edited became vice president in 2000, and formal president by Chris Carlsson. San Francisco: City Lights. in 2001. One of her greatest initiatives during this Congressional Record, V. 149, PT. 2, January 21, time was the introduction of fl ash passes for com- 2003 to February 11, 2003. munity organizations in order to get to and from Coté, John. “Willie B. Kennedy—Longtime S.F. the Martin Luther King, Jr., parades (Congressio- Supervisor—Dies.” SFGate. 9 July 2013. nal Report). Kennedy left BART in 2003, but never “Fillmore Timeline 1860–2001.” PBS. 22 Sept. 2015. concluded her advocacy work. She served on several Metcalfe, Rochelle. “Willie B. Kennedy: A Purpose- driven Life.” SF Bay View, 06 Aug. 2013

105 IMAGE

LEROY COURTESY

KING OF

REBECCA

MORROW

EROY KING was a devoted public servant whose

only goal was to improve the lives of those who KING

L he served, considered “a tireless advocate for our communities and a champion for our residents” by Congresswoman . LeRoy King was a pillar in San Francisco—especially in the Fillmore. LeRoy King was a distinguished labor and civil rights leader. He fought for the civil rights of both Asian Amer- icans and African Americans, as he strove to im- of the Battle of the Bulge, unlike the all-white unit. prove workers’ rights and advocate for aff ordable At the conclusion of the war, King moved back to housing. San Francisco to work as a warehouseman, where Born September 9, 1923, in Fresno, California, his life of advocacy would begin. It was diffi cult for King describes Fresno as being comparable to the him to hold a home in the city because his beloved deep south in terms of segregation and racism. It’s wife Judy Paton, was white. It is because of their in- important to note that instead of becoming a sour terracial marriage, that King family was forced to person, he used the injustices acted out against him move—on nine diff erent occasions in their fi rst year as inspiration for his activism later in his life. At age of being married—displaying both their commit- 17, King moved to the city of San Francisco to live ment and their fortitude. with his sister while he attended City College. Before King joined the International Longshoremen’s his life of advocacy, he was drafted at the age of 19 and Warehouse Union (ILWU) in 1946, quickly into the US Army 101st Airborne Division as the becoming a “distinguished labor and civil rights U.S. was drawn into World War II. He fought in the leader whose passion for justice and commitment European theater for the majority of the war, and to equality improved the lives of working wom- was a part of one of the most important battles of en and men in San Francisco and throughout the the war, the Battle of the Bulge. He fought along- country.” King was joining a union that became side other African American soldiers, having been a beacon of leadership in the city during the civ- assigned to an all-black unit where he remembers il rights movement, with advocates such as Harry not being allowed to carry weapons during the end Bridges and Bill Chester among their ranks, King

106 CHANGEMAKERS would join them in reshaping labor practices in compassing 30 years of service. San Francisco. Even with this star-studded cast, King received many awards. In 2009 The Na- King made an impact in the ILWU: “He helped tional Education Association honored him with its overcome [discrimination in the union] by forming Human and Civil Rights Award for his lifetime of a coalition of Local 6 members that included Cur- social justice work. And fi nally in 2014, the 108 tis McClain, who helped pass reforms that made year-old in the was it possible for black members to win elections and renamed to the “LeRoy King Carousel” in obser- appointments in their union.” vance of his remarkable work to preserve African From a young age King understood that his American and Japanese American heritage. actions would improve . To him A personality consisting of honesty and direc- being selfl ess was more important than individu- tion, King was able to appeal to many high level al recognition. In 1947 when Paul Robeson was politicians as a colleague, allowing him to be more banned from performing in the San Francisco Op- eff ective in the legislative sector. LeRoy played a era House for his leftist views, King provided ven- key role in the development and furtherance of mi- ues for him at local black churches, a testament to norities in the San Francisco area. It is safe to say his selfl essness. In 1963 King helped to establish that advocates like LeRoy are the reason the city the St. Francis Square Cooperative Housing De- is in the progressive position it is in today. LeRoy velopment, which was funded by the ILWU. It was King will be remembered as an infl uencer for so- one of the earliest funding sources dedicated to low cial justice and equality for all. income housing in the United States. It would later become the basis for similar projects nationwide. —Jesse Cortes King truly believed in its potential, and resided there until his death, along with four generations Works Cited of his family. “Dedication Honors ILWU Leader LeRoy King.” Starting ILWU’s Local 6, King quickly rose International Longshore and Warehouse Union, through the ranks, becoming the secretary–trea- 22 May 2014. surer of the local, and he would eventually take up Garofoli, Joe. “LeRoy King, Longtime S.F. labor, Civil Rights the mantle of the Regional Director for Northern leader, dies.” SF Gate, 14 June. 2015. “Labor and Civil Rights LeRoy King, 91” Oakland Post. California, a position he’d occupy until his retire- 23 July. 2015. ment from the union in 1993. King held many re- “Pelosi Floor Remarks on the Passing of LeRoy King.” States sponsibilities as Regional Director of the ILWU. In News Service, 17 June 2015. 1980 he was appointed to the San Francisco Re- “Pelosi Statement on the Passing of LeRoy King” 13 June. development Commission by then-mayor Dianne 2015, Press Release. Feinstein. Reappointed by fi ve diff erent mayors, he served until the agency’s dissolution in 2011, en-

107 DR. IMAGE

WILLIS COURTESY

OF

F. KIRK, JR. MUSICIANS

UNION

R. WILLIS F. KIRK, JR. was born in India- LOCAL napolis, Indiana, in 1928. Kirk began play-

D 6 ing the drums as early as the fourth grade. At the time, racial oppression embodied the aura of his hometown. His high school, Crispus Attucks High School, was built solely for the purpose of segre- gating black and white students. Kirk said, how- Dr. Willis F. Kirk, Jr. playing drums for the City College Jazz En- semble in 2008. ever, that “they [Ku Klux Klan] did us a favor be- cause we ended up having the best arts programs” ery. He was then drafted into the military in 1950. (Parish). Indianapolis birthed a load of renowned After his honorable discharge, he would take ad- musicians from the era, including Wes Montgom- vantage of the GI Bill and begin his attendance ery, Charlie Parker, and many more—all infl uenc- at Butler University in Indianapolis. Kirk lived a ing Kirk’s interest in jazz. It was his high school hectic life his education, teaching, serv- music teacher Russell Brown, though, who was his ing as a business agent for Indianapolis Musicians greatest infl uence, helping him land his fi rst paid Local 3, and playing gigs, becoming almost too gig while still in high school. much for him to handle once he got married and Kirk would have never imagined his future began raising a family in 1955. in education when he chose to pursue a career in Kirk began his long-term stay in the Bay Area music rather than attend college. He originally had when he moved to Oakland in 1968 with his fam- plans on joining the Army when the local school ily, beginning his work as a music teacher at Elm- system said they needed him to fi ll in for a teaching hurst Junior High School. Teaching in a lower in- position, which he would accept and end up teach- come neighborhood, the main problem he would ing in Indianapolis for 12 years. In the meantime, encounter was the scarcity of resources. When he he had been playing music with friends from high arrived at the school, the music department con- school and touring with the likes of Wes Montgom- sisted of “a bass pedal, a snare drum, a bass drum,

108 CHANGEMAKERS a clarinet, and a trumpet” (Parish). He centered Caucus Dance Band, later with their help record- his focus on community outreach, travelling from ing his masterful religious jazz Rejoice! Rejoice! house to house asking for spare equipment and do- He would receive the Jazz Masters and AAJC Me- nations. He even began the Early Bird Program, ade Legacy Griot awards. Directly encompassing where students could come to school early any day his legacy in music education is the Dr. Willis Kirk of the week to play music before attending class. Scholarship Fund that was founded in order to aid Kirk soon after began a counseling job at the students pursuing careers in music. A student of his City College of San Francisco. He worked with the once remarked, “He showed us that anything is pos- college for 23 years, starting in 1969, while in the sible and any dream is achievable with hard work, meantime playing gigs of his own, mainly for the passion, and determination” (Scholarship Fund). San Francisco All-Star Big Band. Dr. Willis F. Kirk, Jr., received an Honorary Kirk took a signifi cant step in his career when Doctorate Arts Degree from his alma mater But- he was named Assistant President of City College ler University in 2009. His unfortunate passing oc- in 1985, where he was in charge of the evening sec- curred not long after, in 2016. He was buried in tor of the college. President Carlos B. Ramirez in Indianapolis. 1988, however, left to take a position at the Univer- Kirk devoted much of his life toward music sity of New , which led to the history-shap- and education, with the end goal that “the inner ing event of Kirk’s appointment as the President city shall have music, too” (Scholarship Fund). He of City College. As that institution’s fi rst African was a vital infl uence to many of the current gener- American President, he served from 1988–1991. ation of musicians in San Francisco, solidifying his He retired from his career in music education at place as a progressive changemaker for all on the the end of his term as President Emeritus. Inspirations Mural. Willis Kirk boasts an extensive record of ac- complishments within his music career. He played —Marcelo Swoff ord with countless music legends such as Duke Elling- ton, Lionel Hampton, Tony Bennett, as well as his Works Cited close friend, the ground-breaking guitarist Wes Montgomery. One of Kirk’s proudest moments “Dr. Willis F. Kirk Scholarship Fund.” Youtube, Kirk was when he sat in on drums for Max Roach, play- Scholarship Fund, 26 May 2017. Hardiman, David, Sr. “Dr. Willis F. Kirk, Jr. 1928-2016, ing a two-hour set with “Bird”—the legendary sax- Transitioned.” LinkedIn. 19 Feb 2016. ophonist Charlie Parker in 1949. “Interim President of City College.” SF Examiner. A-25. He aided his musical protégé David Hardiman, 3 Feb 1989. Sr., in founding the David Hardiman All-Star Big Parish, Matt. “Dr. Willis Kirk: A Sacred Jazz Life.” JazzEd. 25 March 2013. Band, which still performs today. He served on the “The Legacy Series: Willis Kirk, Jazz Drums.” Musicians Board of Directors for the African American Jazz Union Local 6. 2016.

109 IMAGE

DONNETER COURTESY

OF

LANE MIKE

KEPKA / SF

CHRONICLE / POLARIS ONNETER LANE, wife of Rev. John Lane of DGrace Baptist Church in Hunters Point, start- ed her activism by interweaving her own spiritual- Donneter Lane coordinated the interfaith response to the ity and her hopes for an educational desegregation shocking deaths at . for San Francisco students (“Church Council”). In the 1960s, Donneter Lane helped create a desegre- in working with their sons and daughters on issues gation plan for the San Francisco Unifi ed School of public safety, black culture, and equal education District, which allowed black students access to all (“Self-Examination Urged on Mothers”). Her ini- schools. Her focus on school desegregation tran- tial goal of desegregating San Francisco’s public scended into working with communities in San schools fi nally came to fruition in 1972, when she Francisco that were adversely aff ected by the War was invited to become a part of the San Francisco on Drugs that had just begun in places like Bay- Unifi ed School District’s Emergency School Assis- view–Hunters Point and the Western Addition. tance Program Multi-Racial Advisory Committee, Lane, along with other famous changemakers, focusing on youth engagement, educational oppor- believed in the power of a unifi ed community, en- tunities for youth of color, and, of course, deseg- gaged youth, and an intersectional perspective. regating public schools (“San Francisco Unifi ed Throughout the 1970s, Lane focused on the School District”). The Emergency Task Force was, uplifting of disadvantaged communities in order in part, due to the recalcitrant resistance of urban to foster youth engagement. She became the asso- centers to adapt to reform eff orts spurred by Brown ciate director of the Oceanside Merced Ingleside v. Board of Education in 1954 and 1955. In com- Community Educational Planning Program and bination with her community activism, Lane also led community workshops focusing on engaging served as the President of San Francisco Council minority teenagers within the home about educa- of Churches for two consecutive terms, inspiring tion, success, and career opportunities. In addition, change within San Francisco congregations, which the Lanes also hosted workshops for black mothers ultimately spurred successful partnership between

110 CHANGEMAKERS Donneter Lane served as the understood that achieving educational equity in San Francisco also meant tackling issues like public head of the African American safety and public housing. Historical and Cultural Society After her long history of advocating for the black minority in San Francisco, Donneter became disadvantaged communities in San Francisco lat- the head of the African American Historical and er in her championing of social justice (“Church Cultural Society, located in the Western Addition. Council”). The society focuses on the preservation and cul- In 1979, as Executive Director of the San tivation of African American history and culture. Francisco Council of Churches, she acted as one Even now, it stands as a purposeful landmark in the of the principal organizers of the Emer- Western Addition of resilient culture and strength. gency Relief Committee, formed on November In 2001, Donneter retired from her social justice 28, 1978, to coordinate an interfaith response to advocacy in San Francisco and moved back to Ari- the shocking and deaths at Jonestown, which sadly zona to spend her last years with her family (Chen). included many members of the Western Addition. Throughout her career as a voice to the voiceless By 1986, Donneter Lane had formed the Bay- her belief that “blacks didn’t just come in here. view-Hunters Point Crime Abatement Committee, They’ve been here . . . and they’ve made signifi cant modeled after a similar community task force in contributions to the city” is a true expression of Oakland. The point of the task force was to advo- her incredible devotion and community activism in cate for the Bayview–Hunters Point community to San Francisco. rally for crime prevention. Their biggest protest oc- curred on December 7, 1986, in which 1,000 res- —Sophia Tarantino idents of Bayview chanted “We Shall Overcome” Works Cited as a result of community aggravation over the drug dealing and public safety crisis that was occurring “Agnos Names 17 to Demolition Panel.” SF Chronicle, in their neighborhood. During the rally Donneter 24 Feb. 1988, p. 2. Lane famously said, “People from those areas are Chen, Ingfei. “Black Tourism Plan for S.F.” SF here today to help us and we’ll do everything we Chronicle, 30 Sept. 1992, p. 15. can to help them. It’s everyone’s problem” (O’Con- “Church Council Leader.” SF Chronicle, 25 Jan. 1977, nor). This obviously caught the attention of for- p. 14. mer Mayor Art Agnos, who in 1988 appointed O’Connor, John D. “War on Drugs Draws 1,000 to Donneter Lane to be one of seventeen members Bayview March.” SF Examiner, 7 Dec. 1986, p. 41. of a city-wide task force concerning the scheduled “San Francisco Unifi ed School District.” SF Chronicle, 10 Feb. 1972, p. 34. demolition of public sites in relation to redevelop- “Self-Examination Urged on Mothers.” SF Examiner, ment and urban planning (“Agnos Names”). Lane 3 May 1970, p. 7.

111 ORELIA IMAGE

COURTESY

LANGSTON OF

JOSEF

NORRIS

RELIA LANGSTON, best known as director of Orelia Langston ias featured on the Inspiration Murals. Othe Western Addition Youth (WAY) Club, was a determined and selfl ess individual commit- ted to unifying the lost youth in a district that was In 1966, while Langston was working as a rep- changing before their eyes. She off ered them tools resentative with the Economic Opportunity Coun- and guidance to assure their success in society, and cil, a group of local young people approached her thus prevent their victimization at the hands of an to discuss the issues of misguided youth within the unjust system. In addition, she was adamant about community. This conversation was the catalyst for not only banding the youth of the Fillmore togeth- Langston’s movement. In response, a compassion- er but also mobilizing the adults of the Fillmore in ate Langston rallied other adults and formed the cooperation with the youth. As a result, she imag- Western Addition Youth (WAY) club for the youth ined a stronger and more substantial community in the community. Then, in 1969, Langston and which was once a reality before redevelopment her team bought the Scottish Rite Temple, locat- plans threatened the cohesion of the community. ed on Geary Blvd. Langston commented to the Before she was an advocate in the Fillmore dis- Chronicle what she truly believed the WAY club was: trict, Langston was far from the city of San Fran- “It’s really not a recreation center. It’s more of a cisco. According to her obituary from the San Fran- skills and education center. We focus on training cisco Chronicle, Orelia Langston was born in 1933 young people from the ghetto to become employ- and raised in Amarillo, Texas. She was the third able” (Koch). The club gained popularity and in of eleven children. In 1957 she moved from Texas the early 1970s, their membership totaling 1,100. to San Francisco in order to pursue her bachelor’s Langston was so committed to servicing the degree in advertising from the San Francisco Art entire Western Addition that she did not let fi nan- Institute (SF Gate). Immediately following gradua- cial barriers prohibit any member of the com- tion, Langston was determined to be actively in- munity from participating. In fact, members only volved in the community. had to pay 25 cents a week for a full membership.

112 CHANGEMAKERS Langston was committed to teaching the Fillmore not everyone wanted to help maintain her club. As youth their value in society and how they can ac- the community was still being redeveloped, many tively contribute. Young members even completed preyed on Langston’s property as a business oppor- bookkeeping, secretarial work, their own printing tunity. In response to many people wanting to buy jobs and printing jobs for other groups in the com- the building and reconstruct it, Langston comment- munity. Also, in response to meeting the needs of ed: “To a lot of people this building is a white el- full-time hard working mothers, Langston created ephant. But to us it’s a community base, a symbol a program within WAY where high school students of achievement, of hope and love” (Koch). In fact, of the Fillmore tutored the younger children in Langston often worked 13–15 hours daily because academic subjects. This not only fostered an edu- she was devoted to seeing the community’s goals cationally productive atmosphere for the youth, it come to fruition. This, however, did not prevent also lent a helping hand to the busy parents. Ad- fi nancial troubles from plaguing the establishment. ditionally, there was a collective crafting activity Despite the multiple donations to the club by the on Wednesday nights where the youth and adults mid 1970s membership had declined and it closed would gather to work on a huge mosaic for their soon thereafter. tutorial room. On December 1, 1996, Orelia Langston passed In 1969 The Sun–Reporter deemed Langston run- away in her sleep at the age of 63. Despite her ear- ner-up for Woman of the Year for her bold work in ly death, she did not pass away without leaving a the WAY Club. In response Langston stated: “I feel lasting impact on the people of the Fillmore district. even more determined now . . .and that factor alone Many organizations similar to WAY perpetuate the gives me the strength enough to continue stand- goals that Langston initiated, and, in the wake of ing for . . .the goals of many black young people . her eff orts, programs for the youth of the Fillmore . . I strongly believe that my friends outnumber my capitalize on the importance of education and cohe- foes.” And she was right—her community acknowl- sion of families. edged and cherished her contributions through numerous recognitions. She received awards from —Olivia Walker and Sormeh Naderi institutions including San Francisco State Univer- sity, San Francisco Police Department, the Alcohol Works Cited Advisory Board of San Francisco, and the Commu- nity College Board. Additionally, she was president Thomas, Daryl. “Orelia Langston Runner Up of the Fillmore Democratic Club, vice president of Woman of the Year” The Sun Reporter, 5 Apr. 1969. Issue 10, Vol. XXVI. Western Addition Concerned Citizen Organization, Koch, Beverly. “Club’s Aim: Teach Right Way.” the executive director of the Income Rights Project, SF Chronicle, 18 Aug. 1970. and a member of the Black Leadership forum. “Obituary—Orelia Langston.” SFGate. 5 Dec. 1996. While Langston was praised by the community,

113 ORVILLE MG OREYO AR LUSTER LAURA OF COURTESY IMAGE LUSTER

RV I L L E LUSTER had a presence—that he was / “Oeverybody’s father whether you were black, GATE SF brown, blue, red or yellow,” said Percy Pinkney, a former Youth for Service intern (Bulwa). Orville B. Luster, standing 6’2” and nearly always seen with a Orville Luster was always seen with a cigar in his hands. cigar between his lips, stood at the forefront of advo- cacy for reforming gang members in San Francisco’s Hunters Point, Tenderloin, and Mission neighbor- clerk. In 1956, he served as the fi rst African Ameri- hoods, as well as the Western Addition (Stevens). can counselor and supervisor at San Francisco’s Log He dedicated his life to fi ghting the cycle of gentri- Cabin Ranch, a juvenile rehabilitation center (Bul- fi cation and violence that plagued these neighbor- wa). There began Luster’s true calling: social work hoods. Having been a San Francisco social worker and youth services. This led to him joining Youth and human rights commissioner, he worked hard to for Service in 1959, a local project, that he would encourage gang members to return to school, often eventually become executive director of (Bulwa). fi lling their days with community work ranging from Throughout the fi fteen years he served as executive painting and rebuilding homes to restoring play- director, Luster worked hard to support the kids who grounds (Bulwa). were caught up in the neighborhood gangs. Born in Oklahoma City on May 20, 1925, Lus- One of the greatest accomplishments of his ca- ter was the second of seven children. After graduat- reer was working with James Baldwin, famed author ing as the president of his senior class at Frederick and activist, to create a KQED fi lm that toured the Douglass High School, he served in the army in both impoverished African American neighborhoods of Asia and Europe during World War II and was later San Francisco, focusing on the Western Addition. discharged as a Master Sergeant (Bulwa). After serv- The intent of this fi lm was to discover “the real sit- ing, Luster moved to San Francisco in 1946, attend- uation of Negroes in the city, as opposed to the im- ing San Francisco State College. Upon graduating, age that San Francisco would like to present” (“Take he cleaned oil tankers in the San Francisco shipyards This Hammer”). He was very proud of his eff orts while also working in auto sales and as a Safeway towards getting the youth engaged in the communi-

114 CHANGEMAKERS ty, with projects such as the Double Y Project which He has been acknowledged by very prominent added to the YWCA property (“15 Juveniles”). associations in San Francisco and received many One of Luster’s main personal goals was to sup- accolades for his service. Orville Luster was com- ply youth with sustainable jobs. With this in mind, mitted to pushing people toward completing their he managed to receive a grant of $483,400 in July education, doing anything possible to help them 1966 for Youth for Service, igniting enthusiasm from achieve this. Of the hundreds of youths who came the wider community, as this money went towards through Youth for Service in the 1960s and ear- providing local youths with jobs (“Another Grant”). ly 1970s, many of them became doctors, , He also received a $16,000 grant from the Ford teachers and business leaders. Foundation to redirect gang activities from their Luster died of a heart attack at Kaiser Per- usual “hangouts” towards a path of education (Ste- manente San Francisco on June 27, 2005 (Bulwa). vens). He stressed the need for permanent jobs rath- Changing and potentially saving the lives of hun- er than seasonal ones (Draper). In the same article, dreds of youth in the Bay Area, Luster epitomiz- his Youth for Service team was lauded as “proba- es selfl essness and the change that one person can bly the most eff ective and unique staff of . . . social elicit among many. workers in the nation” (Draper). Luster emphasized the importance of teach- —Marcelo Swoff ord and Kendra Bean ing teenagers how to act around authority, soften- ing the tension in their interactions, often by using Works Cited what he called the ABCs (Always Be Cool) to urge the youth to be polite and respectful when ques- “Another Grant For SF Youth.” SF Chronicle, 14 July. 1966. tioned (Schneider). He hoped to provoke a change Bulwa, Demian. “Orville B. Luster—Social Worker, Friend of attitude towards police, as Luster “believed that to S.F.’s Youth.” SFGate. 07 July 2005. Draper, George. “Luster Calls For 10,000 Youth Jobs.” every young person had some goodness in them, SF Chronicle, 01 May. 1969. and he worked to spark that” (Bulwa). Larry Schneider. “Talking To A Cop? Be Nice.” He was the fi fth person to win the Liberty Bell SF Examiner, 31 July. 1961. Award, receiving it on May 2, 1968, from the Bar “Lawyers Honor Youth Leader Here.” SF Examiner, Association of San Francisco, with its President, May 2 1968. Richard C. Dinkelspiel, speaking highly of Orville, Stevens, Will. “Gang Returns Girl to Offi cers.” saying that “Luster’s life and work best exemplifi es SF Chronicle, 3 Dec 1960. the desire to strengthen and safeguard the blessings “Tak e this Hammer: Classic 1963 Film of James Baldwin of liberty as conceived and protected by our form of Touring the Hoods of San Francisco.” San Francisco government” (“Lawyers Honor”). By 1973, Luster Bay View. “15 Juveniles at a Vacant Lot—Bricks Fly, but the Cops left Youth for Service to pursue independent coun- Smile.” SF Chronicle, 12 Nov 1963. seling, only to later return in the 1990s.

115 RUTH MALOOF SFGATE OF COURTESY IMAGE

UTH MALOOF, originally Ruth Ella McRae, Rwas born on February 5, 1933, in the small town of Waldo, Arkansas, to General McRae and Maggie Smith McRae. She was raised primarily in Arkansas until her family decided to move to De- troit for her to attend a better high school. There she graduated cum laude in 1951 from Northeast- ern High School. Ruth Maloof was a dedicated school volunteer. Maloof found her way to San Francisco to at- tend San Francisco State University. She majored Association and would help foster change by ad- in education and she developed her lifelong interest dressing the overcrowding of schools. By 1983, in motivating the lives of young people, particular- RWHS had only been open two years previous and ly in impoverished communities. Her embodiment it now had over 500 students in attendance. Teach- as a teacher and mother would defi ne her profes- ers did not even have classrooms and the school’s sional life. She graduated from SFSU in 1955. infrastructure was poor. She said of the situation: One of Maloof ’s fi rst goals during the outset of “We won’t have a graduating class until next year. college was to start a family and begin helping chil- Even then, we have no place to put them. Right dren within her community. Ruth began to raise now we have two teachers without classrooms. her own family while also creating an at-home day- They have to go from room to room, wherever one care. She continued this work for many years until is not in use.” This was just a prime example of the her eff orts were noticed by the city of San Francis- hands-on activist approach that allowed her to gar- co. She was hired to become a youth director for ner such a profound reputation as a loving mother San Francisco Unifi ed School District. and teacher. She also continued aiding other youth educa- By the early 1990s, Mayor would tion organizations in the city. She worked in schools name an offi cial “Ruth Maloof Day” in San Fran- such as Raoul Wallenberg High School (RWHS), cisco in recognition of her 21 years of volunteering where she was the President of the Parent Teacher and leadership.

116 CHANGEMAKERS co—she was just an enjoyable, loving spirit. Ruth Ruth Maloof worked in San Maloof ’s legacy will live on forever, not solely through Francisco Public Shools for 21 the metaphysical but also through her presence on the Ella Hill Hutch Community Center Mural with the years. Mayor Frank Jordan caption “Mother of All,” truly encompassing her ef- forts to create a better community for everyone, re- declared an offi cial Ruth Maloof gardless of way, shape, or form. Day in the 1990s. —Marcelo Swoff ord and Zachary James

Throughout her later career, from 1970 on- Works Cited ward, Ruth was married to Dr. George Maloof. They would end up having six children together: Quijuan, “Ruth Ella Maloof.” SF Chronicle and SFGate.com. In Memory. 10 Kwixuan, Zurvohn, Vyhan, Xatrohn, and Yhunuan. Aug. 2011. Thankfully, she had many grandchildren who she Wong, Ken. “Classes are Overcrowded, PTA Chief says.” SF loved, which is part of the reason why she never got Examiner. 16 Jun. 1983. tired of being a mother fi gure. Her entire personal and professional lives had been dedicated to children and family, focusing on educational opportunities for all. She was a devout Christian woman, largely choos- ing to worship at St. Cyprian’s Episcopal Church in San Francisco. Later on in age, after retirement, she would move to Las Vegas to her dream house, The Castle. She spent her fi nal years being with family and tending to her meditation garden at her home. She had a stroke in Las Vegas in 2009, with the next two years consist- ing of constant hospital care in San Francisco. Ruth sadly passed on August 9, 2011 in San Francisco at the age of 78. Ruth Maloof’s character was embodied by how loving, personable, and dedicated she was to caring for others and supplying educational opportunities to all. Not only was she active in taking care of her family and friends, but would go on to help take care of entire schools and communities in San Francis-

117 DR. IMAGE

JOSEPH COURTESY

OF

MARSHALL USF

R. JOSEPH MARSHALL is known and celebrated Dfor his dedication to community organization. Dr. Joe Marshall, recipient of the 2017 California He is an author, lecturer, radio talk show host, and Prize, at the University of San Francisco. community activist. He became interested activism while attending the University of San Francisco. Dr. Marshall was a self-described radical on cam- When his middle school students began to move pus and founded the fi rst chapter of Black Student on to high school, he noticed a change in some of Union (BSU) at the University of San Francisco their behaviors. “I’d fi nd those kids on drugs, sell- (USF). He not only established this organization ing drugs, getting pregnant,” he said, “Worst of for black students on campus, but also fought for a all, I found myself going to their funerals… My black studies curriculum at the university and advo- students were getting A’s in math, but F’s in life” cated for more ethnic diversity on campus (“The Joe (“The Joe Marshall Plan”). Seeing his students in Marshall Plan”). Dr. Marshall is a fi rm believer in these circumstances didn’t sit well with Marshall. By education. He earned a B.A. in political science and the 1980s, he felt obligated to provide alternatives sociology from the University of San Francisco, an options for inner-city youth (“Dr. Joseph Marshall, M.A. in education from San Francisco State Uni- Jr.—Advocate”). After 25 years of working in the versity, a PhD in psychology from the Wright Insti- San Francisco educational system, he shifted gears tute in Berkeley, as well as two Honorary Doctorates and began to focus his attention on youth violence on Humane Letters from Morehouse College and and started the Omega Boys Club with the Alive the University of San Francisco. After getting his and Free program. The organization serves at least teaching credentials, Marshall began to teach high 200 youth each year, ranging from 14 to 24 years school and middle school math. He was a tough old. At the academy, they develop academic skills teacher but only because he wanted the best for his like math, literacy, and critical thinking so that they students. However, Marshall also understood that can successfully graduate from high school or get a many of his students had very diffi cult home lives. GED (“The Joe Marshall Plan”). For students who

118 CHANGEMAKERS aspired to go to college, the academy provided re- is also a documentary called Street Soldiers about sources such as college prep programs, fi nancial lit- the Omega Boys Club and Marshall which discusses eracy programs, and assistance with the college ap- the topic of violence prevention that aired on televi- plication process. Even while away at college, they sion in 1997 (“Street Soldier: Dr. Joe Marshall”). still could seek support and comfort from Alive and Dr. Joseph Marshall served on the Board of Free (“The Joe Marshall Plan”). The academy also Trustees at USF for six years and was the Vice provided a space for young people to talk about the President of the San Francisco Police Commission. hardships of living in neighborhoods aff ected by vi- Dr. Marshall has received a plethora of awards in- olence. Dr. Marshall’s work wasn’t confi ned only to cluding the California Prize in 2017, the Human the realm of community activism, he also started a Rights Leadership Award from the Harvard Univer- nationwide organization called Street Soldiers Na- sity Alumni in San Francisco in 2003, the Essence tional Consortium which is committed to eradicat- Award honoring outstanding contributions by Afri- ing violence (Wildermuth). Dr. Marshall wanted to can American men in 1994, and the White House engage the youth on a personal level, to allow them salute for success in fi ghting drugs and crime in the to speak about real issues in their life. He was the community in 1990. He also received the Leadership “Dr. Phil of the hood,” as he liked to put it. He made Award from the Children’s Defense Fund in 1994 in it clear to the students that “if you stick with the pro- addition to others (Wildermuth). Dr. Marshall has gram, you pick the college and I’ll fi nd a way to get made tremendous contributions toward the success you there.” Although he didn’t have a lot of money, of many young people and in the eradication of vio- he believed “that if you do good things, good things lence in underprivileged communities. He continues will happen” (“The Joe Marshall Plan”). The orga- to help his community to this day. nization has supported as many as 200 college grad- uates, and at least 50 out of those 200 have received —Chaniece Jeff erson and Kallee Graham graduate degrees. Marshall also started a radio talk-show primarily Works Cited for youth where they can call in and talk about what’s “Dr. Joseph Marshall, Jr.—Advocate.” Urbanministry. happening in their environment and to try and fi nd Jeff erson, Chaniece. “Dr. Marshall.” Personal interview. resolutions to the issues present in their neighbor- 1 Dec. 2016. hoods. From gang violence to teenage pregnancy, “Street Soldier: Dr. Joe Marshall.” Agoodblackman.com the radio show is there to discuss important issues “The Joe Marshall Plan.” USF Magazine. 2017. (“Street Soldier: Dr. Joe Marshall”). The show has Whiting, Sam. “Joseph Marshall, founder of Omega been praised by the New Yorker as a “model for how Boys Club.” SFGate. 5 Oct. 2009, the entertainment industry can come to terms with Wildermuth, John. “Dr. Joe Marshall.” Streetsoldiers violence” (“Street Soldier: Dr. Joe Marshall”). In ad- radio.org dition to his talk-show, Marshall also wrote a bestsell- ing book called Street Soldier, One Man’s Struggle to Save a Generation, One Life at a Time, published in 1996. There

119 LARRY MARTIN IMAGE

COURTESY

ARRY MARTIN WAS truly a leader of the OF

SF

Lpeople. He used his position in the Transpor- MAYOR tation Workers Union (TWU) and his work in San ’ S

Francisco City Hall to connect the workers to the OFFICE community and advocated to improve working conditions and the overall operations of Muni. He worked tirelessly for over four decades with seven diff erent San Francisco mayors. Muni superinten- dents would often say that general managers come and go, mayors come and go, but Larry Martin is Larry Martin worked tirelessly as a labor activist and held always there. Bold and uncompromising, Martin’s several positions in San Francisco government. strong sense of duty has earned him a deserving place in San Francisco labor history. fares while resolving scheduling issues. Born in Little Rock, Arkansas, Larry Martin Martin’s career in labor union activism started grew up working with his family. At fi ve years old, in 1966 when he was elected the Presidio Division he would help his mother at her grocery store and Union Chairman. After serving two terms, he was by thirteen he was driving for his stepfather’s stor- elected president of TWU Local 250A. He served age company. It was here he learned about hard again for two terms and then continued his sup- work and found a strong penchant for driving. Af- port as a TWU international representative. Al- ter graduating high school, Martin and his family ways striving for success, he enrolled in classes at moved to Oakland, California. Martin’s love for the University of San Francisco, University of Cal- driving became even more apparent when he be- ifornia, Berkeley, and Merritt College. He chose came a Muni Transit Operator and a member of to study labor history and management, building the TWU’s San Francisco branch, Local 250A, in upon his skills and knowledge to become an eff ec- 1966. His passion for what he did served him well tive labor leader. His hard work and desire to uplift as he had to deal with ten-hour work days while and support workers was apparent and he quickly also handling the near impossible task of collecting moved up the ranks to become the International

120 CHANGEMAKERS Vice President of the union while simultaneously Larry Martin passed away October 16, working for organizations like the NAACP, Coali- 2017—leaving a strong legacy and decades of tion of Black Unionists, Coalition of Labor Union impactful work. His legacy will be remembered Women, Asian Pacifi c American Labor Alliance, through the commemoration of his work with the and Pride at Work. release of Car No. 2006, in November of 2017, During his time within the TWU, Larry Mar- the fi rst of the new Muni trains to be implement- tin was essential in many important developments ed to replace older versions. As former Board of in the union. He helped start a program for local Supervisors President and current Mayor Lon- children to take school fi eld trips to their neighbor- don Breed said in a statement after his passing, hood operating division to learn more about the “Whether it was shaping policies for our city Municipal Railway and possible future careers. He agencies, advocating on behalf of his fellow union also championed the creation of the Joint Labor members or fi ghting for civil rights in the City’s Management Program, which is still a necessity to- African American community, he always sought day. This created stronger collaboration between to uphold the values of our city. The impact of his labor and management which improved working endeavors will be experienced by San Franciscans conditions and overall Muni operations. for generations to come.” In the 1990s, Martin worked as a liaison to set- tle disputes between the city and union. He fought —Daaniyal Mulyadi and Kendra Wharton against the push for privatization of the Municipal Railway and collided with mayoral candidate Frank Works Cited Jordan over his accusations of the TWU being an ineffi cient drain on the city. He opposed attempts “Larry Martin Retirement Celebration.” [Brochure.] to make Muni liable to California’s Department of Marriott Hotel, San Francisco. 18 September 2004. San Francisco State University, Labor History Motor Vehicles and was in favor of having more Archives. local legal processes for such activities. Martin also Mayor Lee, Former Mayor Willie Brown, Board criticized mayors and city leaders who had tried to President and Union Leader James cut funding from Muni. Bryant on the Passing of Lawrence B. ‘Larry’ Larry Martin retired from his position in the Martin. TWU in 2004, but continued to be a leader and “Memorial Services Being Held for Longtime TWU pillar for the San Francisco community. He served Leader Larry Martin.” InsideSFMTA. on the Human Rights Commission for over twelve “Lawrence Martin’s Obituary.” SF Chronicle, 27 Oct. years and on the Planning Commission for over 2017. eight. He was appointed to the Recreation and “First New Muni Train Goes Into Service in San Fran- cisco.” NBC Bay Area, 18 Nov. 2017. Park Commission in 2000 and started serving as President to the Commission in 2007.

121 IMAGE

MARY S. COURTESY

OF

MARTIN SF

CHRONICLE /

ARY S. MARTIN, founder and executive direc- KAT

Mtor of S.R. Martin Preparatory School, was WADE

highly regarded as a leading fi gure in education in / San Francisco. She was born on March 23, 1939, Mary Martin with her students in 2007. POLARIS in New Orleans, and attended segregated public schools throughout most of her adolescence. These understood the importance of nurturing students schools lacked funding due to the government’s of color. She understood the unjust disadvantages dearth of attention and resources, which formed that aff ected these students and after her husband, an ineff ective educational system for minority chil- Shedrick R. Martin, passed away her dedication dren. Moving forward, Martin attended a high and drive to open the school only grew stronger. school that would forever change her outlook on Although his passing greatly aff ected her (causing education because of the drastic change in envi- her to take a short break from teaching) she later ronment. She saw the presence of African Amer- began teaching at several diff eren ican teachers and staff allowed for a more com- t schools. While she was teaching at Raoul passionate environment, enabling students to seek Wallenberg High and Balboa High School, she higher education beyond high school. This new noted “the students at Wallenberg were in a col- atmosphere inspired Martin to graduate at the top lege prep program and that Balboa students were of her class and attend college at Xavier University not on the college track” (SFGate). From her work in New Orleans. with “diffi cult minority students” at Wallenberg, In 1959, Martin took a trip to California to she noticed that many of the Samoan students visit her sister, a decision which would ultimately there on scholarship did not feel comfortable at lead her to attend San Francisco State Universi- the school. Because of this, they were placed at an ty. Within a year she received her teaching cre- unfair disadvantage in reaching higher education dentials. Martin continued her education at San beyond high school. This discriminative cycle has Francisco State University, where she met her hus- been perpetuated by the educational system’s lack band and obtained her masters in counseling and of care and knowledge of minority issues. This administration credentials (SFGate). Based on her revelation sparked Martin’s idea of opening up a own experience with the education system, Martin private institution solely for students of color.

122 CHANGEMAKERS Martin had always felt driven to change the to pay $3,500, though the true cost was estimated way the education system treated African American to be around $4,000. Martin cared for her students youth who were not obtaining the same opportuni- greatly and continued to make sacrifi ces so that they ties that non-minority students were receiving at oth- could attend. Unfortunately, she struggled to obtain er schools. After seeing the youth of Hunter’s point grants to fi nancially support the school. and Bayview struggle to attend (and even prepare) After retiring in 2007, Martin continued to for college, Martin decided to start a school that look for fi nancial resources to keep the school open. would cater to these students needs and hopefully be Once the 2008 economic crisis hit however, it be- successful in setting them up for levels of education came impossible for S.R. Martin Prep School to beyond the school. In 1990, she started S.R. Martin remain open. The school eventually merged with Prep School with the help of seven faculty members Bridgemont High School, which eventually closed who, according to an article found in The Guardsmen, down. Despite not being able to maintain the school, shaped the lives of thirty-fi ve students. The school there were approximately a hundred students who off ered courses from 6th grade through 12th grade, graduated from S.R. Martin Prep. Many of these with the majority of students in attendance being students were awarded scholarships to attend col- high schoolers. The curriculum was intended to be lege and overall many of their lives were changed rigorous in order to prepare students for the com- for the better. The amount of dedication, love, and mon college workload and challenged students to hard work Martin put into her community contin- excel in multiple subjects. ues to be inspirational and demonstrates why she is Mary Martin wanted her students to excel in all seen as a prominent advocate for equality within the aspects of their lives. She maintained close relation- educational system of San Francisco. ships with them while also providing a strict but nur- turing environment to ensure that they would stay —Rachael Sandoval and Heidi De La Cruz Velázquez on task. Martin genuinely cared about the well-be- ing of each and every student who attended her Works Cited school. All of her hard work was funneled into this “Taniya.” The Guardsmen. 01 Dec. 2016. institution so that the African American youth could Moody, Shelah. “Mary S. Martin—an Educator Succeeds have advanced opportunities. She wanted them to against the Odds.” SFGate, 11 Feb. 2012. succeed as adults, not just as students. Her students Nakao, Annie. “Symbolic Celebration / Thousands Turn out recognized this and felt that “public schools [don’t] in S.F. for King’s Birthday.” SFGate, 31 Jan. 2012. Wagner, Venice. “College Prep Gives Kids the Attention They give you much attention. Some teachers don’t care. Need to Excel.” SFGate, 22 Feb. 1995 Here, they make you do your work so you have a higher expectation of what you’re doing” (Wag- ner). Though she achieved these goals, it came at a price. In order to attend, students were required

123 IMAGE

NATHANIEL COURTESY

OF

MASON SAN

FRANCISCO

ATHANIEL MASON, JR., used his many interests BAY

Nin diff erent fi elds to positively aff ect his local VIEW community in the Western Addition of San Fran- cisco. Although he lived much of his life in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, he made a home for himself in San Francisco. Mason served in many positions in San Francisco spanning from San Francisco Uni- fi ed School District to the San Francisco Police De- Nathaniel Mason served in many capacities, including for the San Francisco Unifi ed School District. partment to the NAACP, a civil rights organization known worldwide. Mason was raised, the oldest of his siblings, in Start director for the City of San Francisco, and Baton Rouge, Louisiana, by his parents, Nathan- later a vice chair for the San Francisco Unifi ed iel Mason Sr. and Ida Spooner Mason. His father School District Affi rmative Action Committee. was a laborer who worked for the Standard Oil Mason had a clear infl uence on the communi- Company. During his undergraduate education, ty through his work in local departments. During Mason pledged to Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, show- his career he was also served, at various points, as ing involvement in his local community even as a a postman, a sheriff , and then a police offi cer for college student. He said in an interview that while the City and County of San Francisco. He also he learned so much from his parents growing up participated in several organizations that pro- in Louisiana, the biggest thing that stuck with him mote the advancement of specifi cally the African that he learned growing up was to “have respect for American communities of San Francisco. Mason your elders and get your education because that’s was also at one point chairman of the board of the only way you will get ahead in life” (SF Bay- the Martin Luther King, Jr., and view). Mason certainly followed through on this ad- Square Cooperative, Inc., a housing program aid- vice from his parents. He would later infl uence his ing members of the community who were low-in- community by serving as a school teacher, a Head come, usually African American, who purchased

124 CHANGEMAKERS Nathaniel Mason served in cess to legal services and justice. The organization was established by Congress in 1974. Mason was many capacities, including also a member of the Voter Education Commit- tee and the Political Action Committee of the San Head Start director, director of Francisco Black Leadership Forum, infl uencing lo- the Economic Opportunity cal politics and government as well. Lastly, Mason also held the position as direc- Council, on the Voter tor of the Economic Opportunity Council of San Education Committee, and on Francisco. Mason accomplished many things while having held all of these positions in his community the Political Action Committee and was known for his dedication in infl uencing the community in any way that he could. of the San Francisco Black Nathaniel Mason passed away in Oakland on Leadership Forum. September 21, 2016, at the age of 87. His infl u- ence on the community through his many contri- and rented apartments. He was also a member butions to diff erent organizations will surely live of the California Affi rmative Action Council, in on. Mason was described as having a strong per- charge of promoting diversity within the state of sonality and having “lived his life to the fullest,” California. as reported by the San Francisco Bay View. Mason Later on he served as the chair of the Labor was known for doing things his way and striving to and Industry Committee of the NAACP, while infl uence others no matter what role he played in also serving as a member of the NAACP’s Pub- his many lifetime accomplishments. licity Committee. The many accomplishments —Kristen Williams and positions he held in organizations designed to improve the lives of African Americans all over Works Cited California showed that he was very involved—he was indeed a perfect example of what community Multifamilyexecutive.com. 2016. engagement truly means. “Nathaniel Mason Jr., Pillar of the Community.” Mason also held many other positions that San Francisco Bay View, 26 Sept. 2016. strived to benefi t the Fillmore, San Francisco, and the State of California. He was also a member of the Client Council of the San Francisco Neigh- borhood Legal Assistance Foundation, a non-prof- it corporation that did what they could to help all members of the community in having proper ac-

125

JOHNNY MATHIS PUBLIC

DOMAIN

IMAGE OHN ‘JOHNNY’ MATHIS ROYCE was born in Gilm- Jer, Texas, on September 30, 1935. When he was still a small child, he moved to Post Street with his family in the Fillmore neighborhood of San Francis- co. Widely regarded as the Harlem of the West, the Fillmore infl uenced Mathis as his interest in music grew. His father’s infl uence was crucial, too, in get- ting Johnny involved in music at a young age, even Young Johnny Mathis teaching him his fi rst song, “My Blue Heaven.” In 1943, his father saved 25 dollars to buy him his fi rst piano, a considerable sum at the time. Mathis future in Johnny’s talents when she fi rst heard him began by singing in church choirs, school events, sing at that club. At just 19 years old in 1955, Noga community events and wherever else he could, even booked him to perform at Ann Dee’s 440 Club, entertaining relatives at large family gatherings. where he would be noticed by a scout from Colum- When he was thirteen, Mathis met Connie Cox, a bia records. After hearing him sing, he sent back a prominent Bay Area vocal coach who would men- letter to Columbia that read: “Have found phenom- tor him throughout high school until he began col- enal 19 year old boy who could go all the way. Send lege. He attended George Washington High School, blank contracts.” When off ered a chance to partake where he garnered a prominent name for himself in the trials for the 1956 Summer Olympics on be- through his outstanding musical and athletic talent. half of Team USA and an opportunity to record at He was a star player on his basketball team and an Columbia Studios in New York, he, along with the outstanding track and fi eld runner. guidance of his father, decided to wholly pursue his During college, Mathis went to play at the fa- career in music. mous Black Hawk Nightclub in the Tenderloin with His fi rst album Johnny Mathis: A New Sound in one of his friends for San Francisco State University, Popular Song included two of his most popular songs: who had performed there regularly in a sextet. One “Wonderful, Wonderful” and “It’s Not For Me To of the owners of the club, Helen Noga, saw a bright Say.” These garnered not only critical success, but

126 CHANGEMAKERS also solidifi ed his surge toward mainstream popu- light the man that was Johnny Mathis, it was the larity. He began receiving off ers to make music for passion that drove him to succeed that has shaped fi lms and much more. Riding this momentum, his the man who so many people love today. He has single “Chances Are” became his fi rst Billboard #1 often expressed his love and appreciation for the hit, cementing his highly esteemed rank as a vocalist. city in which he was raised. It was a source of mo- During the era, it was a high honor to appear on the tivation in his life. Mathis once said “I never ever Ed Sullivan Show, and Johnny’s appearance in 1957 want to lose my link with San Francisco” (Ryan). after having released an album with multiple famous The city has refl ected this love back to him with the singles would transition him from an icon among proclamation of Johnny Mathis Day on December musicians to a popular household name. He kept 18th by Mayor in 1957. His making music with Columbia Records for years, alma mater, San Francisco State University, also ranging his styles of music from jazz to Broadway handed him a degree in Liberal Arts in 2017. soundtracks to romantic songs and more. All in all, Johnny Mathis is one of the most Mathis has received a multitude of awards famed musicians from San Francisco and does not and recognitions throughout his career. Columbia plan on stopping anytime soon, proclaiming “I records released Johnny’s Greatest Hits in 1958, the think about how I can keep singing for the rest of fi rst greatest hits album released, a suit many artists my life. I just have to pace myself.” now follow. Along with this, the album spent an en- tire 490 weeks in the top Billboard Album charts, —Marcelo Swoff ord a record unbroken until the late 1970s. His music has a long-lasting eff ect on the music industry. He Works Cited is one of only fi ve artists to have had a Top-40 Bill- board Single in all four of their fi rst decades, as he “Johnny Mathis: Wonderful! Wonderful!” CBS News released music through 2014, including his single Sunday Morning. 14 May 2017. “Sending you a Little Christmas” with Jim Brick- Cestone, Vince. “Pam Moore Interviews Legendary Singer Johnny Mathis.” KRON 4. 2 June 2017. man. Mathis has earned a total of fi ve Grammy Elwood, Philip. “Sing It Yet Again, Johnny.” SF Examiner, nominations throughout his career, spanning from 5 Oct. 1985. the 1960’s hit “” to 2014’s Sending You a Little Green, Blake. “The Romantic Balladeer Who’s Happy Christmas. He was also inducted into the Grammy Alone.” SF Chronicle, 23 Sept. 1977, pp. 24. Hall of Fame. Mathis received an abundance of Hufhines, Liz. Fairmont Hotel: San Francisco. praise for his work through many awards and cel- Public Relations. 19 Feb 1958. ebrations, highlighted by his winning of the Life- “Johnny’s Bio.” RoJon Productions. time Achievement Award from the Academy of Ryan, Joan. “Outstanding Track Record for Mathis.” Recording Arts and Sciences in 2003. SF Examiner, 17 May 1987, pp. C1. It is not only the awards, however, that high- Stern, Charley. “San Francisco Welcomes Home Johnny Mathis.” SFPL History Center Archives. 12 Dec 1957.

127 OLLIE MATSON PUBLIC

DOMAIN

IGURES DO NOT SHOW his true value,” Ray Rich- IMAGE Fards, Chicago Cardinals’ coach from 1955 to “1957, said of Ollie Matson. “When he is in the lineup, somehow the whole team is inspired.” In addition to motivating and inspiring his team- mates, Matson also inspired people of rich, poor, white, and black families to follow their dreams and to fi ght for what is right. Ollie Matson with the Chicago Cardinals in 1954. Ollie Genoa Matson, II, was born in Trinity, Texas, on May 1, 1930. He moved to San Fran- cisco with his mother, Gertrude, when he was a but I was swift for that size. I could either run past teenager. In the city, Matson became known as an you, over you, or through you. I didn’t do a lot of iconic All- player. While attend- hard cutting like Gale Sayers did. But we both had ing Washington High School, Matson displayed his the peripheral vision to know where guys were going impressive talent as a football player and track ath- to be, and we had that speed to get there.” lete. In 1947, San Francisco Chronicle reporter Don Matson would later play for San Francisco Selby said that “[Matson] gives every indication of City College, where he scored 19 touchdowns in being the hottest thing San Francisco high school one season. As a junior, he transferred to the Uni- football fans have seen in quite a spell.” versity of San Francisco. Matson’s performances also caught the atten- He originally enrolled to play basketball, but tion of university scouts. He broke the world inter- was soon drawn back to the gridiron. Matson was scholastic 440-yard dash record with a time of 47.8 a star of the legendary undefeated and untied seconds; the old mark was 48.2 seconds. Standing 6 1951 University of San Francisco football team. feet, 2 inches and weighing 220 pounds, many peo- He called this team “the greatest of all time” be- ple wondered how Matson had the ability to run so cause of their dominant 9-0 record. Matson led the fast. When asked, he explained: “Speed and quick- nation that year with 1,566 yards rushing and 21 ness, that’s what you need to return kicks. I was big, touchdowns. The Dons were able to outscore op-

128 CHANGEMAKERS ponents by an average of 31–8 because of Matson’s Los Angeles High School. He also coached running leadership. They beat College of the Pacifi c 47–14 backs at San Diego State and scouted for the Phila- in a game that was supposed to send the winner to delphia Eagles and was the special-events supervisor the Orange Bowl. However, Coach for 11 years at the Los Angeles Coliseum. was told that the invitation would be issued only if Matson had two daughters, Lisa Lewis and Bar- the team’s white players played. The team’s defen- bara King, and two sons, Ollie III and Bruce. Fam- sive star stated, “No, we ain’t going ily was important for Matson. He was proud of his to go without Burl [Toler] and Ollie,” and in the medals, but he was most proud of his 50-plus years end, the team decided to forfeit the Orange Bowl. of marriage to his wife Mary L. Paige. He said, “It’s Although Ollie Matson was not able to play all about marriage. That’s the key right there. That’s in the Orange Bowl, the next year he won a silver what makes everything else feel so nice.” medal in the 1,500-meter relay and a bronze medal Art Thompson, Matson’s nephew, released a in the 400-meter race in the 1952 Summer Olym- statement from the family explaining that Matson pics in Helsinki. Matson said that he cherished his suff ered from a dementia-related condition late in Olympic medals the most because “In the Olympics his life. Before doctors were able to treat him, Mat- you’re competing against the best there are. It isn’t son died in his home in Los Angeles at the age of 80 the Iowa State Fair. It’s the world championship.” in 2011. He had a full and exciting life. His desire Once he was back from representing the United to do what is right and his ability to do it with grace States, Matson was ready for an outstanding NFL was awe-inspiring. He was and still is one of the best rookie year. During his fi rst season, Matson became football players who ever played the game. the co-winner of rookie of the year honors in 1952. Matson held the record for the most total yards —Betsy Jacobo and Grace Jackson gained in a season: 924 yards. He also held the re- cord for most rushing yards in a game—163 yards. Works Cited In his fourteen years of playing pro football, Matson had the ability to break down barriers to become Crumpacker, John. “Ollie Matson, NFL Hall of Famer one of the best. Throughout his career, he gained of S.F., dies.” SFGate, 20 Feb. 2011. 12,844 yards on rushing, receptions, and returns. Harris, Beth. “Pro Football Hall of Famer Matson Dies at 80.” The Washington Times, 19 Feb. 2011. Performances like these allowed Matson to be Kupper, Mike. “Ollie Matson dies at 80.” LA Times, elected to six Pro Bowl teams and six All-Pro fi rst or 20 Feb. 2011. second teams. In 1972, Matson was elected to the Litsky, Frank. “Ollie Matson, an All-Purpose Football NFL Pro Football Hall of Fame. He was inducted Star, Is Dead at 81.” New York Times, 20 Feb. in the National Football Foundation’s College Hall 2011. of Fame in 1976. Matson retired in 1966 and began “Ollie Matson.” NFL Pro Football Hall of Fame. teaching physical education and coaching football at

129 ENOLA D.

MAXWELL IMAGE

COURTESY

OF

JOSEF

NORRIS

NOLA D. MAXWELL was born on August 30, E1919, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, to Clemus and Lena Maxwell. After her mother’s move to San Enola D. Maxwell was an inspiring neighborhood activist. Francisco, Maxwell followed in 1949 with her chil- dren, Barbara and Ronnie. Racial discrimination shrouding the atmosphere of the south motivated tivism. She enjoyed her fi rst experience serving in her to move to the west. However, she noticed seg- the Haight–Ashbury Neighborhood Council in regation was still prevalent in San Francisco, just the 1950s. Maxwell, along with close friend Ruth more subtle. Passen, helped stop a motion to build a freeway Because of her race, Maxwell was prevented through Golden Gate Park. This proposed action from becoming an insurance agent, a job she held would have changed not just Golden Gate Park, in Baton Rouge. Due to fi nancial hardships, they but the entire city. The two friends would continue moved around the city in pursuit of aff ordable to aid discriminated African Americans, fi ghting housing. The family lived in the Haight–Ashbury the “worst kinds of white supremacists” (Moan). District briefl y, then moved to the Carolina Proj- From 1968 to 1971, Maxwell was the fi rst woman ects in Potrero Hill where her third child, Sophie, and fi rst African American to work as a minister at was born. Maxwell worked with her mother at the Potrero Hill Olivet Presbyterian Church. She the Little Red Door, a popular community thrift connected the church with the community as much shop, in addition to working multiple other jobs. as possible, developing a program titled Street She also worked as an employee for the U.S. Postal Ministries where she would run a coff ee shop in the Service to provide fi nancial stability for her fami- basement of the church. Music and provocative ly. Maxwell hadn’t initially expected a life in social discussion could be had at the coff ee shop without activism, yet her involvement in the communities the fear of judgment. of San Francisco increased her engagement. Her Maxwell established herself as an esteemed assertive personality was perfectly suited for ac- community activist in San Francisco and was ap-

130 CHANGEMAKERS pointed as the Executive Director of the Potrero sional Award in 2003 from Congressman Phillip Hill Neighborhood House (PHNH). In 1971, she Burton. Nancy Pelosi also appointed her to the Se- not only became the fi rst black director, but also nior Internship Program in Washington, D.C., that the fi rst African American to be appointed to any is run through the San Francisco city government. position in the PHNH. In 1977 under her leader- In 2001, San Francisco Board of Education Com- ship, the PHNH was designated as California His- missioner Mark Sanchez offi cially renamed the Po- torical Landmark No. 86. One of her priorities in trero Hill Middle School to be the Enola D. Maxwell offi ce was to hire Ruth Passen as secretary of the Middle School for the Arts. She had often worked community center. Passen had much to say about with school executives and teachers to advance lo- the way Maxwell revolutionized the structure of cal education outreach. Though the school has now the PHNH. “Enola was the one who had the vision been discontinued, the 655 De Haro Street San to make it happen,” Passen said. “Her vision was Francisco Unifi ed School District (SFUSD) facili- all living together. This is a house. She encouraged ty is now named after her. Longtime Mayor Willie black seniors to come. White seniors were already Brown, who she had worked with during her time at having lunch. This is not a white program or a black the PHNH, has called her “a giant in the communi- program. This is a lunch program. . . . Now we have ty, the quintessential neighborhood activist” (Hoge). this place people are not afraid to come to day or Enola D. Maxwell passed away at the age of 83 night . . . because it’s known as a safe place” (Weiss). on June 24, 2003, in San Francisco. She lived a long Though justice and equality were her vocation at life working hard to establish a sphere of freedom the community center, politics identifi ed her lifestyle and justice in which people of the city could live as a whole. peacefully, regardless of race, ethnicity, or age. Aside from her work at PHNH, Maxwell was extremely involved in everyday politics, not only just — Marcelo Swoff ord in Potrero Hill, but in all of San Francisco. She was often the sole black woman working for programs Works Cited that were mainly white. Collective justice was her Hoge, Patrick. “Enola Maxwell—Activist, Advocate.” SF goal at the PHNH and she once asserted that “fear Chronicle, 25 June 2003. and hate are the most dangerous things because they Moan, Rebekah. “Potrero Hill Populated by Powerful Wom- take away your freedom” (Pelosi). She was one of en.” The Potrero View, July 2015. the founding members of the Martin Luther King, Pelosi, Nancy. United States, Congress. 5 July 2003. Weiss, Mike. “Civil Wrongs Inspire Activist’s Fight for Jr., Holiday Celebration Committee, which still runs Rights.” SF Chronicle, 2 Dec. 2002. events that extend King’s legacy and promote social Zimmer, Jessica. “What’s in a Name: Potrero Hill’s Parks and and political activism citywide. Schools.” The Potrero View, June 2017. Maxwell’s passionate activism has led to a life- time full of achievements. She received a Congres-

131 REV. IMAGE

JAMES COURTESY

OF

MCCRAY, JR. JAMES

MCCRAY

JR . EV. JAMES MCCRAY served as a senior minister BLOGSPOT Rat Jones Memorial United Methodist Church from 1982 until 2002 and was an integral fi gure in the construction of the new Jones Memorial Church in the Western Addition. While the project cost up- wards of six million dollars, Rev. McCray viewed it as an investment in the future of African American Rev. James McCray, Jr. life in San Francisco, saying, “Opening this church is about hope. It gives hope that all African Amer- ican folks don’t have to leave San Francisco. Not options in San Francisco to combat the gentrifi ca- only can they stay but we can stay and participate tion that has rapidly changed the city. Along with in making this city better” (Garofoli). four San Francisco ministers, McCray founded the San Francisco has seen its African American Tabernacle Community Development Corporation population drop dramatically due to the combina- (TCDC). The organization seeks to preserve cul- tion of botched Western Addition redevelopment tural diversity in San Francisco by providing social plans and increasing racial gentrifi cation. The service programs and opportunities to try and halt neighborhood has a rich religious history, with three the mass departure of minorities and impoverished churches that are more than 150 years old. In recent people from San Francisco. It strives to cultivate years, however, attendance at Sunday services has communities through the development of livable, declined. While Rev. McCray acknowledged that aff ordable housing. Located in Bayview-Hunters constructing a new church would not bring back Point, the TCDC has invested millions of dollars the African American population by itself, he saw into housing projects. The fi ve collective parishes the church as an opportunity to restore the sense of own and sponsor over 1,000 units of housing for community he felt left the Western Addition. low income citizens throughout San Francisco. McCray strived to create low-income housing They seek to sponsor rental properties for African

132 CHANGEMAKERS Rev. James McCray has view-Hunters Point neighborhoods, addressing is- sues of recidivism. supported countless James McCray’s work in the Western Addition and San Francisco as a whole has helped prevent community projects, working the mass fl ight of African Americans and other to improve numerous minority groups from the city. Rev. McCray has worked to preserve community identity and diver- San Francisco neighborhoods. sity in the Western Addition and helped reestablish Jones Memorial United Methodist Church as a American families to buy, in order to increase Af- community center. He is currently serving as vice rican American ownership in San Francisco. This president of the San Francisco Human Services was a step toward connecting ministers and com- Commission, where he plans to administer federal, munity members from across the country to create state, and local programs designed to meet basic hu- similar organizations in their respective communi- man needs and ensure protection for some of San ties. Francisco’s most vulnerable citizens. Along with the Aside from working for improved housing op- TCDC and the support of other faith leaders in tions for low-income and senior citizens, the TCDC the Western Addition and Bayview–Hunters Point has founded and assisted several other community neighborhoods, Rev. James McCray has participat- improvement projects throughout its three decades ed in and supported countless community projects, of existence. In the 1990s, it established the Young working tirelessly to improve San Francisco for all African American Achievers program, an after who live here. school program focused on tutoring elementary school children who fall below the 50th percentile —Marcelo Swoff ord and Anthony Norman on standardized tests. In 1995, the TCDC was given a grant by for- Works Cited mer California Governor Gray Davis and used the funds to start the Ujimaa program. This prompted Garofoli, Joe. “Saving Grace of Inner City.” SF their work with the State of California’s Employ- Gate, 30. Jan 2012. ment Development Department to serve more “Home.” Tabernacle Community Development than 400 clients and families with the transition Corporation-SF. “Human Services Commission.” San Francisco from jail to work, combating chronic unemploy- Human Services Agency. ment, and off ering skills training. This led to the “Mayor Lee Swears in New Appointments and formation of the No Violence Alliance (NOVA) Reappointments to City Boards and Commis- Project which organizes to support ex-off enders in sions” Offi ce of the Mayor, City and County. the Western Addition, Mission District, and Bay- of San Francisco, 7 Mar. 2016.

133 IMAGE

COURTESY LULANN

OF

JOSEF

MCGRIFF NORRIS

ORN ON January 14, 1943, Lulann Sapp Mc- BGriff would become known as one of the most prominent civil rights leaders in San Francisco, as well as a defender of educational rights and equal- Lulann McGriff, from the Inspiration Murals ity. Despite being from Los Angeles, McGriff grew up in the Ingleside neighborhood of San Francis- co which allowed her to fully understand the issues tive in the African American lodges . . . My mother of her community. Because of her background, was one of the fi rst African American women toll McGriff developed a passion for educational takers on the Bay Bridge. My dad worked his way equality, motivating her to earn a master’s degree up from warehouseman to become a salesman for in social work from San Francisco State Universi- air fi lters. He was always very direct with us about ty. She later found herself working as a counselor who we were, and standing up for what you believe and then as the counseling department chair for in” (Asimov). the City College of San Francisco. Throughout McGriff also served on the Mayor’s Offi ce of her life, McGriff had been exposed to inequality, Children Youth and their Families Planning Com- which allowed her to perceive injustice as a tool to mittee, the Allocations Committee, and as presi- create change. Her experience helped her become dent of the San Francisco Economic Opportunity a prominent civil rights activist and educator, serv- Council Board (Dougan). These positions provid- ing four terms as the president of the NAACP of ed her a platform to address the needs of her com- San Francisco (NAACP). munity. She and her colleagues at the Community McGriff ’s introduction to civil rights primarily College of San Francisco (CCSF) worked to create centered around her family. Her grandmother and a series of African American retention programs, parent’s infl uence stuck with her throughout her which were implemented across the San Francis- adulthood. She recalls, “My grandmother would co Unifi ed School District, including a mentoring drag me around everywhere she went. She was program at Edison Elementary School. McGriff very active in the churches, and she was very ac- demonstrated the power of her infl uence by advo-

134 CHANGEMAKERS She implemented this program as a response to Lulann McGriff has served as a segregation occurring within city schools. Lulann prominent civil rights and McGriff explained, “Well, African Americans were in substandard schools. They were segregated educational rights leader because they couldn’t get into a lot of the other schools. They were sent the worst teachers—par- in San Francisco. She served ticularly at Bayview–Hunters Point. And that was four terms as president the unfairness” (Asimov). By noting the inequality in her community, McGriff was able to work locally of the NAACP. to create change and leave an impactful legacy on the San Francisco community. cating for desegregated public schools on the west What set Lulann McGriff apart from others coast. was her ability to take action against unfair and Lulann McGriff grew up when the civil rights unequal systems in place within schools. For her movement was in full swing, a time when skin color extraordinary work, care, and resilience Lulann determined how successful someone could be. As a McGriff has earned a place on the Ella Hill Hutch result, McGriff saw an opportunity to create change Community Center Inspirations mural. and stop the cycle of segregation within her com- munity. She was motivated to participate in the local — Mary Cruz, Annelise Suleiman, chapter of the NAACP, where she would become and Rachael Sandoval the only president to serve four consecutive two- year terms. The NAACP worked to ensure political, Works Cited educational, social, and economic equality for all Asimov, Nanette. “Next Guardian at The School persons by holding acts of injustice and inequality Gate.” SF Chronicle, 3 Nov. 1996, Sunday ed.: 3/Z1. accountable (NAACP). McGriff ’s success demon- “Clarence Gatson/Gado Pictures.” Getty Images. strated that she was a strong civil rights advocate 8 Dec. 2015. and she played a key role in monitoring an integra- Gledhill, Lynda. “Lulann McGriff , Fought To tion consent decree that was signed by the San Fran- Equalize S.F. Schools.” SFGate.15 Aug.1998. cisco Unifi ed School District in 1983. NAACP. 20 Sept. 2015. McGriff ’s legacy continues to be seen and imple- Schmidt, Peter. “Blacks’ Assignment To Bilingual mented throughout the district through a system Classes In S.F. Is Criticized.” Education Week. known as “consent decree,” which disperses stu- 12 June 1991. dents among diff erent schools based on a child’s ethnicity, a school’s ethnic balance, where the sib- lings go to school, and even the family ZIP code.

135 COMMANDER ISIAH IMAGE

NELSON III COURTESY

OF

SFPD SIAH “IKE” NELSON III is remembered as an Iamazing police offi cer and a hero. Born and raised in San Francisco, Nelson attended City Col- lege and received a bachelor’s degree and a mas- ter’s degree in public administration from Golden Gate University (Maatz). He and his wife, Dorian Nelson, had two sons, Gabriel and Anthony. Nelson started working at the San Francisco Isiah Nelson from his SFPD profi les Police Department in 1970. He worked for several of game three of the Giants vs. A’s World Series. departments including patrol, narcotics, and in- Nelson successfully helped evacuate the whole telligence. According to Larry Maatz, a writer for stadium, helping mitigate the amount of injuries. the SF Examiner, Nelson was also named head of The Commissioner of at the burglary detail. Nelson beat the odds in 1986, the time, Fay Vincent, remembers Nelson’s eff ort becoming the youngest commander, as well as the as being “perfect” (Brown). Nelson helped Vincent fi rst African American commander on the force. remain calm and set the tone for the evacuation. This sparked controversy within the department; He was able to alert the spectators and help them some claimed that Nelson did not have enough ex- evacuate eff ectively and safely. Nelson’s partner perience to fi ll the new position. However, the SF Jorge Costa described his methodical and profes- Examiner wrote about how he defi ed the odds and sional process as a breathing practice for Nelson: was thought of as “one of the rising stars in the he would “inhale the fast and furious information next generation of police administrators.” and details and mood swings based on the latest One of Nelson’s most heroic moments was in reports and exhale a plan of action for the offi cers, October 17, 1989, during the Loma Prieta earth- the crowd, and the commissioner” (Brown). quake. In the aftermath of the earthquake, Nelson Even though his wife and sons were amidst the oversaw the evacuation of Candlestick Park. It was chaos, Nelson made sure that the other civilians a packed stadium with 60,000 people in attendance were a priority and that they were safe before send-

136 CHANGEMAKERS Isiah Nelson was a hero refl ections for their loved ones. Nelson has a myri- ad of heartfelt messages written in his name. Many during the 1989 Loma Prieta have written that he will never be forgotten. Vivian A. Bruce, a retired Sergeant, wrote: “Some have earthquake, safely evacuating tried to imitate you, but you remain unique. It sad- thousands of spectators from dens me still that you left us so soon having given so much with the guarantee of even greater deeds Candlestick Park. to come . . . Rather, it was a vast shadow that you bore. I am forever grateful he was cast my way.” This refl ection was left on , 2013, ing an offi cer to fi nd his family. Once his family was over 23 years after his death. Not only was Nelson reunited, Nelson escorted people who had been an amazing offi cer, but he also impacted the lives injured to the hospital. According to an interview of many outside of his police work. His memory with his wife Dorian Nelson in 2014, she said her will always live on among those who he touched husband “gave the baby a kiss, and turned right and those who benefi ted from his work. around and drove back to San Francisco. . . . It was 4 in the morning” (Brown). It was his priority —Megan Woods and Evita Martinez to make San Francisco a better and safer place, in whatever way he could—no eff ort was too small Works Cited for him. Tragically, Nelson was killed in a motorcycle Brown, Daniel. “Earthquake World Series: The Hero accident on Interstate 280 while returning from a of Candlestick Park.” The Mercury News, 3 Mar. security detail on April 14, 1990—less than a year 2017. after his heroism at Candlestick Park. He was only “Commander Isiah Nelson, III.” The Offi cer Down 36 years old at the time of his death, leaving be- Memorial Page (ODMP), 26 Dec. 2013. hind his wife and two sons. The Hanging Gardens Maatz, Larry. “New Police Chief ’s Inner Circle: on Interstate 280 are named in memory of Isaiah His Brother, First Black.” SF Examiner. 11 Jan. 1986. Nelson. His amazing career was short-lived but he Maatz, Larry. “S.F’s New Top Cop Enters on High dedicated a strong 19 years to the force, where he Note.” SF Examiner. 17 Jan. 1986. worked himself up from rookie to Commander. Maatz, Larry. “Tough Decisions on Top Brass Face S.F’s New Police Chief.” SF Examiner. 9 Jan. 1986. He had to overcome the scrutiny of being an Afri- can American and the pressure of being so young. Nelson’s fellow offi cers will never forget the memory he left behind. The San Francisco Police Department website has an Offi cer Down Memo- rial Page where friends of fallen heroes can write

137 EVA IMAGE

PATERSON COURTESY

OF

EQUAL

JUSTICE

HROUGHOUT HER YEARS of dedication and hard SOCIETY Twork, Eva Paterson has become an outstand- ing leader who actively works for change in her community. Paterson’s years of persistence, along with her courage, grit, and fortitude have helped her break down many racial barriers. She has re- ceived numerous awards and has acted as a catalyst Eva Paterson in 2019. for many social movements. Born into a military family, Paterson was con- president. She quickly found a love for politics stantly on the move which gave her the opportu- working in this role. In 1970 at the age of 20, Pa- nity to live in places like Illinois, France, and En- terson captured America’s attention by winning a gland. However, her upbringing was anything but debate on national television. In her debate against structured. Many times she was forced to watch her Vice President Spiro Agnew, she spoke passionate- father abuse her mother. She explained, “I really ly about the 1970 Kent University shooting of stu- tried to protect my mother from my father . . . I dent demonstrators. Her outstanding accomplish- think some sense of being a warrior was being in- ments led her to be admitted into UC Berkeley’s stilled at that point” (Shetterly). From a young age Boalt Hall School of Law. Paterson knew that it was not right for her father to Paterson began her career as a “baby lawyer” physically abuse her mother. She possessed an in- at the Legal Aid Society in Alameda County where nate sense of protection, but felt frustrated because she co-founded “A Safe Place”—a haven for wom- she was unable to solve the problem. If it weren’t en who are victims of physical abuse. For the next for these experiences, she wouldn’t have found one 23 years, she would work at the Lawyer’s Commit- of her life’s passions in working with women who tee for Civil Rights and of those 23, she spent 16 experience sexual and physical abuse. Paterson’s years as the Executive Director. Paterson also took urge to change the world for the better led her to on many other issues like fi ghting against racial and Northwestern University where she would become gender discrimination in the San Francisco Fire the fi rst African American female student body Department. In 2003, Paterson was at the helm of

138 CHANGEMAKERS Eva Paterson has served as the Bollinger. Paterson’s eff ort helped the Supreme Court uphold the affi rmative action admissions policy. co-founder and president of the For the last eighteen years, Paterson has been the co-founder and president of the Equal Justice Soci- Equal Justice Society, a national ety, a national non-profi t organization that aims to non-proftit organization aimed create coalitions to transform the minds of citizens across America through the use of law, the judicial at transforming the nation’s system, and through studying the social sciences consciousness on race through and the arts. Paterson was also a vocal spokesper- son against Proposition 54 which, if passed, would law, social science, and the arts. have “prohibited the collection of racial and ethnic data by any state agency, thus making it impossible the creation of the Equal Justice Society (EJS), be- to track any racial discrimination or bring civil rights coming its co-founder and president. In recent years, suits to court” (Cal Civil Rights). she has served as an adjunct professor at both UC Eva Paterson continues to be an active member Hastings and the University of San Francisco School of the San Francisco community. Throughout the of Law and has given many addresses at universities years, she has demonstrated her strength as a leader across the nation. and has displayed patience and perseverance in the Paterson has received more than fi fty titles and face of inequality and discrimination. She has had a awards over the span of her career. From the recog- drive to make positive changes in the world from a nition that she had gained from her debate in 1970, young age. What her next contribution to her com- she was named one of Mademoiselle magazine’s “Ten munity will be, only time will tell. Young Women of the Year.” She was later featured —Candice Matlock, Althea Pyle, and Zachary James on the covers of Ebony and Jet magazine. Of her many awards, her most notable include: The Woman Works Cited of the Year from the Black Forum, the Civil Liberties Award, The Alumni Award of Mer- “Eva Paterson.” Equal Justice Society, 29 Sep. 2016. it from Northwestern University, the Fay Stender Kamisugi, Keith. “Eva Paterson to Debate Ward Connerly at State Bar Annual Meeting.” Equal Justice Society, 26 Jan. 2016. Award from the California Women Lawyers, and the Shetterly, Robert. “Eva Paterson.” American Who Tell the Truth, Spirit of Excellence Award from the San Francisco 2016. Bar Association. Additionally, she has written many “Eva Paterson.” California Civil Rights Coalition, 2015. articles promoting and equal rights. Robertson, Erin. “Modern-Day Civil Rights Leader: Eva Among these are “Can’t We Get Along” and “The Paterson.” Chicago Ideas, 22 Jan. 2014. Future of Affi rmative Action.” However, one of her most compelling accomplishments was the work that she did in support of equal educational opportuni- ties in the landmark Supreme Court case, Grutter v.

139 LES

PAYNE IMAGE

COURTESY

OF

ESLIE BURTON PAYNE, commonly known as JOSEF Les Payne established himself as a notewor-

L NORRIS thy Changemaker through his rehabilitory work with incarcerated youth. This was primarily as a dedicated offi cer of the California Youth Au- thority, and his active membership in both the Lions’ Club and the Commonwealth Club. In addition to being a valuable member of all three Les Payne as pictured on the Inspiration Mural. of these organizations, Payne was also the fi rst African American to serve each institution, re- cess while enforcing state youth authority guide- spectively. His impressive achievements were lines of parole” (San Francisco Board of Super- recognized in 2001 when former Mayor Willie visors). Now known as the California Division of Brown honored Payne with the Lifetime Distinc- Juvenile Justice, this branch of the California De- tion Award for his career working with the youth partment of Corrections and Rehabilitation pro- in his communities. vides constructive services to California’s most se- Payne was also recognized for his integral rious youth off enders up to age 25. Minors in this role in ending the riots of the Bayview–Hunters treatment program have the most serious criminal Point uprising in 1966. Supervisor Terry Fran- backgrounds and require the most intensive reha- cois and Mayor John Shelley understood that bilitative treatments. Programs provided by the Payne was a respected voice in Hunters Point California Division of Juvenile Justice include: and was essential to calming down the situation. academic and vocational education, medical care, As stated in the commendation presented mental health services, substance abuse rehabilita- to him by former Mayor Brown, Payne was an tion, and treatment programs that address violent exceptional offi cer for the California Youth Au- and sex off ender behavior. These treatments are thority, and described as being “instrumental in supervised by the Alameda Superior Court, as a assisting many young people on the road to suc- result of the 2003 lawsuit Farrell v. Harper (Fagan).

140 CHANGEMAKERS Les Payne was honored by Works Cited Mayor Willie Brown and the “Division of Juvenile Justice Overview.” Board of Supervisors in 2001 Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, 2017. for his lifetime dedication to Fagan, Mike. “Farrell v. Harper.” Civil Rights Litigation Clearinghouse, University of Michigan Law School, improving conditions for San 16 May 2008 “The History of the Division of Juvenile Justice.” Francisco’s youth. California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. 2017. During Payne’s tenure he worked tirelessly San Francisco Board of Supervisors. “Resolution No. with troubled youth in dire need of fi rm and com- 884-01.” City and County of San Francisco, 5 Nov. passionate guidance to minimize their chances of 2001. Resolution commending Leslie Burton Payne reoff ending and letting themselves fall back into for his longtime dedication of service to the criminal behavior and subsequent incarceration. community of San Francisco and especially for his Payne’s dedication to rehabilitating wayward youth commitment of improving the lives of young inspired his several years of service on the board of African Americans. the Delinquency Prevention Council (San Francis- co Board of Supervisors). Payne also served “Young Men of Action” and “Youth for Service”—both successful programs that ameliorated life for young people who felt there were few options. In his retirement, Payne became an active par- ticipant in the S.R. Martin Academy, run by Mary S. Martin for years.

—Sage Stefanick

141 DR. IMAGE

WILLIAM COURTESY

OF

PIERCE JOSEF

NORRIS

R. WILLIAM PIERCE, a psychologist and re- Dsearcher associated with the Westside Com- munity Mental Health Center, was one of the fi rst Dr. William Pierce, psychologist. researchers to attempt to dispel the racist notion of inherent white superiority in relation to intel- one that deals with the ‘oppressive, victimizing’ ligence. In addition to his nominal with the West American environment” (Melnick). Among these Side Community Mental Health Center, Pierce psychologists was Dr. Pierce, whose research and has used his professional standing to advocate for advocacy were focused on suspending the admin- the fair treatment of African Americans. istration of biased IQ tests that were created in Born in 1940 in Youngstown, Ohio, Pierce en- favor of failing black students and forcing them rolled as a student at the into special needs classes. An NAACP study found in 1962. Pierce joined the Alpha Phi Alpha, the “that although black children constitute 25 per- fi rst African-American Greek-lettered fraternity cent of the general school population, they make during his collegiate career. He became a clinical up 53 percent of the mentally handicapped class- psychologist in 1967. In 1968 Pierce accepted an es” (Wood “Blacks Tell S.F Schools: ‘Stop Biased internship at Napa State Hospital and he moved I.Q Tests’ ”). to California. After the completion of his intern- Pierce achieved a victory when Martin Dean, ship, he took up directorship of the West Side then Assistant Superintendent of Schools, admit- Community Mental Health Center. It was here ted that the “present tests were unsatisfactory” where Pierce’s career genuinely took off , fi nding and proclaimed “all children in special education great success in a leadership role. classes currently are being retested” (Wood “Stop In the 1970s a conference of nearly 10,000 Biased I.Q. Tests”). Eventually, thanks to Pierce’s psychologists held by the National Association of eff orts the school district took steps to suspend IQ Black Psychologists created a study model that in- testing until it could assemble “a committee in- volved “switching from traditional psychology to cluding black psychologists to study the moratori-

142 CHANGEMAKERS Psychologist Dr. William Pierce lessness” (Wood “Zebra Hunt Protests”). Dr. Pierce’s “interest in the community was used his expertise to chal- consistent with the tenor of the time” (Dent), and he spent his life and career ensuring that black resi- lenge the racially biased IQ dents of San Francisco would receive fair treatment testing methods that were from offi cials of their home city until his passing in 2015. Though racism has woven its way into so- administered in San Francisco ciety via educational limitations directed toward black students, it is only through proactive and schools. His suggested reforms conscientious behavior exhibited by changemakers changed the way IQ testing is such as Dr. William Pierce that will help create a just and equal social climate. now conducted throughout the nation. —Alvin Tran, Loven Florencio, and Sage Stefanick um on testing” (Wood “Tests to End”). Pierce continued to make the case at the 1974 Works Cited conference that the National Association of Black Psychologists called for in San Francisco. He point- Dent, Harold. “A Tribute to Bill Pierce.” ed out that the tests were meant to be adminis- Psych Discourse, October 15 2015. tered to middle-class white children instead of Wood, Jim. “The IQ Bias Battle.” California Living lower-class black children, resulting in a test that Magazine, 24 Sept. 1972: 15-17. would not “refl ect the diff ering value systems of “Doctors Oppose It—More Zebra Hunt Protests.” whites and blacks” (Wood “The IQ Bias Battle”). SF Chronicle, 25 Apr. 1974. The results of the conference and the study even- “Dr William Dallas Pierce.” Obituary Service Information. 2015. tually led to a reform of IQ tests that would more Melnick, Norman. “White Methodology Decried.” accurately serve black students. SF Examiner, 31 Aug. 1972. Pierce would go on to lead protests against the Wood, Jim. “Black Pupil I.Q Tests to End.” San Francisco Police Department’s actions during SF Examiner, 6 May 1970. the 1974 . As a string of racial- Wood, Jim. “Blacks Tell S.F Schools: ‘Stop ly motivated murders against whites gripped the Biased I.Q Tests.’” SF Examiner, 5 Mar. 1970. community, Pierce protested “the issuing of identi- fi cation cards” (Wood “Zebra Hunt Protests”), call- ing them insensitive and complaining alongside his colleagues, Dr. Aubrey Dent that the SFPD “seems to be acting out of frustration and a sense of help-

143 ALEX IMAGE

PITCHER COURTESY

OF

JOSEF

NORRIS

LEX PITCHER was an African American lawyer Aand civil rights activist whose legacy will for- ever be remembered. He has made contributions Alex Pitcher as depicted on the Inspiration Murals. to African American rights, specifi cally within education, that still hold great importance to this day. Born in the 1920s, Pitcher was raised in Ba- ton Rouge, Louisiana, where he became one of the the school districts of Kansas, South Carolina, Del- fi rst African American lawyers in the state. There aware, Virginia, and the District of Columbia. Mar- he led a movement to fi ght for the admission of shall, Pitcher, and other prominent lawyers recruited black students into Louisiana State University. In to work on the case argued that not only were the 1950, Pitcher escorted the fi rst black student to quality of separated schools unequal, but having class, paving the way for Pitcher’s lifetime career this segregation made black students feel inferior desegregating public education and promoting to white students. They used studies and research equality. administered by top professionals from all over the After advocating for racial desegregation at Loui- country to prove the negative eff ects of segregation. siana State University, Pitcher began working closely Pitcher and his colleagues assisted Marshall in prov- with the NAACP’s head attorney, Thurgood Mar- ing that segregation was an attempt to keep “the shall. In 1954, he and Marshall worked together on people who were formerly in slavery as near to that one of the biggest civil rights cases the U.S. Supreme stage as is possible” (NAACP). After years of per- Court had ever seen: Brown v. Board of Education. This sistent struggles, Marshall and Pitcher convinced the case was a pivotal moment in history that dismantled Supreme Court to side in their favor. Segregation the “separate but equal” doctrine found in the 1897 were ruled unconstitutional, forcing schools to case of Plessy v. Ferguson in a fi ght against segregation desegregate. laws. Brown v. Board of Education was comprised of In 1963, Pitcher and his wife, Rosalie Thierry, a coordinated group of fi ve diff erent cases against moved from Louisiana to San Francisco. They set-

144 CHANGEMAKERS Alex Pitcher worked with Later in life, Pitcher became the president of the San Francisco chapter of the NAACP. His on the term lasted from 1994 up until his death in 2000 Brown v. Board of Education case. at the age of 75. While serving as president, he “led attempts to promote school integration, to ease racial tensions with police, and to help rebuild tled together in the Bayview-Hunters Point neigh- neighborhood programs and commerce” (Fagan). borhood, which had a high population of African Comer Marshall, a leader at the NAACP who Americans. Pitcher picked up his career in law worked closely with Pitcher, said, “[Pitcher] was where he had left off . He acquired prominent roles an icon of the community. He was godfather to in the running of local economic advancement and the community and an individual who had an un- low-income home-buying programs. According to derstanding of all of the political ramifi cations. Kevin Fagan of SFGate, “he became executive di- He still took a stand for justice.” rector of the Bayview Hunters Point Housing De- Alex Pitcher’s legacy has been vital to the velopment Corp., and in 1976 Pitcher served as a rights of people of color, directly in San Francisco community consultant to the city Department of and resonating throughout the nation. He broke Public Works’ Clean Water Program.” His involve- down barriers in Louisiana by becoming a lawyer. ment didn’t stop there, however, as he worked as a His work on the Brown v. Board of Education case is deacon at a local Providence Baptist Church, mem- essential to civil rights and tackling segregation, ber of the African American Democratic Club, the even now. The contributions he made in the lo- Black Leadership Forum, and member of the San cal politics of San Francisco have helped shape a Francisco Public Utilities Commission. Always ac- community. His accomplishments are plentiful and tive, Pitcher was an important fi gure in providing Pitcher will be remembered as a true leader. a voice for African American communities in San Francisco politics. — Carlos Calles; additional research by Alex Pitcher remained close to the city gov- Annelise Suleiman and Sophia Tarantino ernment of San Francisco throughout his activism and community engagement. In 1971, Pitcher col- Works Cited laborated with Mayor Aliotto to secure funds for a Bayview–Hunters Point Health Clinic. In the good Cone, Russ. “Coleman Out As Clinic Chief.” SF Chronicle, graces of Mayor Allioto and his constituents, Alex 23 Nov. 1971. Fagan, Kevin. “S.F. Civil Rights Leader Dies at 75.” SFGate. Pitcher left his seat on the Bayview–Hunters Point 7 Jan. 2000. Model Neighborhood Agency, to be promoted to “Landmark: Brown v. Board of Education NAACP Legal serve as the Executive Director of the Model Cities Defense Fund Housing Development Agency in 1972. Lewis, Gregory, and Annie Nakao. “NAACP Leader’s Talk With S.F. Cops.” SF Gate.13 Sept. 1995

145 JUDGE IMAGE

CECIL COURTESY

OF

POOLE SAN

FRANSISCO

CHRONICLE ECIL POOLE was born in Birmingham, Ala- Cbama, on July 25, 1914 and was the youngest of three siblings. He was four years old when his family moved to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where Judge Cecil F, Poole was the fi rst African American US he would spend the rest of his childhood. Poole Attorney in the United States in 1961. was involved in the black empowerment move- ment throughout his life, beginning with his mem- a research attorney for the West Coast Offi ce of bership in the Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity at the the Price Administration. In 1949, he worked as University of Michigan, the fi rst African Ameri- the Assistant District Attorney in the Offi ce of for- can Greek lettered fraternity, and the founding of mer San Francisco District Attorney Pat Brown. the Gamma Chi Lambda graduate chapter in San Pat Brown appointed Poole as the Extradition and Francisco. Poole earned a bachelor’s degree and Clemency Secretary after Brown was elected Gov- law degree from the University of Michigan in ernor of California. the late 1930s. He then earned his JD degree at In 1961, Cecil Poole was appointed U.S. Attor- Harvard Law School in 1939. By 1940, he joined ney for the Northern District of California by Pres- the Pennsylvania bar and was then drafted into the ident John F. Kennedy. This appointment was mo- U.S. Army Air Corps in 1942. mentous. Poole became the fi rst African American Even in the military, Cecil Poole’s drive was U.S. Attorney in the continental United States— apparent and he quickly moved from being as- the fi rst of many remarkable positions he would signed to an all-black segregated unit, used mostly hold throughout his career. In the midst of the civil for manual labor, to a First Lieutenant in the Judge rights movement, there was backlash throughout Advocate General’s offi ce, where he served adjudi- the country against the Vietnam War and segre- cated courts-martial. After serving for nearly four gation. As U.S. Attorney, Poole faced a great deal years, he received an honorable discharge in 1946. of criticism, but he stayed true to his ideals and re- Soon after, he moved to San Francisco to work as fused to prosecute hundreds of people who evaded

146 CHANGEMAKERS the draft. He also denounced a plan to prosecute ous and Poole was extremely infl uential in ruling David Hilliard, a prominent Black Panther lead- in favor of Native American–Alaskan groups who er for an implied threat to kill President Richard were seeking sovereignty over their lands. Nixon. These decisions underscored Poole’s devo- Judge Poole served on the court for 25 years tion to justice for his people and his willingness to and earned Senior Judge status in 1996. Through- support equality even when the government that out his career he was known for hiring minority employed him was actively trying to take down one law clerks as well as encouraging young black law- of the most prominent groups fi ghting for equality yers to not let obstacles stop them from advancing for black people. The implications of racism and themselves in their careers. Poole was also inducted prejudice inherent in many cases were certainly into the Charles Houston Bar Association Hall of obvious to an attorney who in 1958 had a cross Fame in 1996 in recognition for his dedication to burned on his lawn. his profession. In the late 1960s, Poole was appointed to the Cecil Poole passed away in November 1997 bench of the Federal District Court of Northern from pneumonia-related complications. His con- California twice by President Lyndon B. Johnson, tributions survive to this day through his important but both appointments were not confi rmed by the work and the legacy that he left behind. politically conservative Senate. He returned to pri- vate practice in 1970 and focused on entertainment —Anthony Norman and Kendra Wharton law. He represented groups like the Doobie Broth- ers, , and Jeff erson Airplane. Alongside Works Cited his work in entertainment law, Poole also served as Director of the NAACP Legal Defense and Educa- Cecil F. Poole, “Civil Rights, Law, and the Federal Courts: The Life of Cecil Poole, 1914–1997,” tion Fund as well as teaching as a law professor at an oral history conducted in 1993 by Carole Hicke, the University of California, Berkeley. Regional Oral History Offi ce, The Bancroft In 1976, Poole was again appointed to the Library, University of California, Berkeley, 1997. bench of the Federal District Court by President “Cecil F. Poole, 83, a Legal Leader for Blacks.” New Gerald Ford. His confi rmation led to the peak of York Times. 16 Nov. 1997. his extremely successful career. He became the “Cecil F. Poole: Civil Rights Law Champion.” New fi rst black Federal Judge in Northern California. Crisis Feb.-Mar. 1998, 105th ed., Along the Battle In three years he was appointed by President Jim- Line sec.: 41. my Carter to the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, Goodloe, Trevor. “Poole, Cecil F. (1914–1997).” making him the fi rst black man to serve on the Black Past: Remembered and Reclaimed. Wallace, Bill. “Judge Cecil Poole, Pioneering Black court and only the second to serve on any Federal California Jurist.” SF Gate. 14 Nov. 1997. Circuit Court of Appeals. His understanding and Fulbright, Leslie. “Some S.F. African American History support for other marginalized groups was obvi- Landmarks.” SFGate, 10 Feb. 2012.

147 WILLIAM HENRY RENO IMAGE

COURTESY

OF

JOSEF ILLIAM HENRY RENO was a proud member

Wof the Western Addition who valued his NORRIS relationships within the community and connect- ing with its members. In the Fillmore community, Reno was a beloved businessman, and he strove to Will Henry Reno ran The Community Barbershop, incorporate the sense of community he felt into his a hub of activity and community in the Fillmore district. business. He strove to maintain a sense of commu- nity even as community in the Fillmore was being a simple clean up, the barbershop was home diminished by outside fi gures. However, the barbershop wasn’t William William was born on June 17, 1936, in Earling- Henry Reno’s only contribution to the Western ton, Kentucky. He moved to San Francisco with his Addition. In his later years, he was president and parents, George and Minnie Reno, and his sister, co-founder of the San Francisco Ocean/Ingleside Georgia Burke. It was in San Francisco that Reno Lions Club, a worldwide charitable society devoted established his business, The Community Barber to social and international service, taking its mem- Shop. The barbershop was a safe haven for com- bership primarily from business and professional munity discussion and provided a safe space for the groups. Reno also established the Southwestern men of the community to connect. This legendary, Neighborhood improvement group, which valued neighborhood-minded, community-focused, store beautifi cation in respect to the people’s culture. affi rmed the Fillmore districts culture as an Afri- On May 7, 2007, at the age of seventy-one, can American community. The barbershop also William Henry Reno died. His legacy continues provided reliable jobs to its workers and acted as a through the streets of the Fillmore and his fami- host site for political fundraising, support, and con- ly continues to embrace his work as a signifi cant versation. The barbershop allowed for a diverse piece of history that changed the ways of the Fill- group of people to connect; whether they were more district. musicians, artists, or business owners who needed Like many others whose faces inhabit the wall,

148 CHANGEMAKERS Will Henry Reno was known as the proprietor of the Community Barber Shop in the Fillmore District.

William Henry Reno is a constant reminder that regardless of where you begin your journey of life, anyone can be a leader and have a profound in- fl uence. It is those like William Henry Reno who get little recognition, yet had the greatest impact on creating such a connected community like the Fillmore. As an article written by Carol Ness for SF Gate best explains, it is about “instilling pride in the people of the neighborhood” and “it’s about the community.” Everyone has some connection to the mural and it reminds the people of the West- ern Addition of its founders and stands as a beacon of hope to continue the mission of preserving the community, a mission and vision that defi ned Wil- liam Henry Reno.

—Janelle Nunez, Delaney Miller, and Elijah Williams

Works Cited

“William Henry Reno.” The Messenger. Madisonville, KY. 15 May 2007. Ness, Carol.“Faces of Black Success.” SFGate. 1999.

149 MARY

HELEN IMAGE

COURTESY

ROGERS OF

SF

CALL

MALL IN STATURE yet resilient in spirit and te- Snacious in style, Mary Helen Rogers became known as the mother of the Western Addition and fought for its preservation as an African Amer- ican business and cultural hub. Born and raised Mary Helen Rogers was a prominent activist in the Western in Texas, Mary married in 1945, and moved to Addition. the San Francisco in 1965 with her husband and their twelve children. Her long life of community in housing law, a neighborhood legend who baked activism was sparked when she was denied hous- delicious dinner rolls out of scratch and a “true ing in the Sunset District based on her race. She matriarch of community activism in San Francis- told KQED in a 2001 documentary: “When they co.” Rogers was a fearless woman and would lay found out I was black, all of a sudden it was rent- down in front of bulldozers to protect homes. ed.” At the time, she was 40 years old and the Fill- Rogers helped to start the Western Addition more was in the middle of an urban renewal plan Community Organization (WACO), a communi- that was sweeping the “ghettos” of the nation and ty organization that fought for social justice in re- throwing communities into upheaval. development. WACO was largely focused around The renewal was a housing redevelopment the social justice wing of the Catholic church and project that followed most of the United States faced fi erce opposition from the SF Redevelopment after World War II as a plan to boost the econo- Agency (RDA). Dynamic RDA head Justin Her- my, but Rogers understood that the renewal was man called this group a “passing fl urry of prole- a separation of cultures. As the government tore tarianism.” However, in 1967, WACO demanded down blocks of the Western Addition, the former community participation in planning, fi nancial as- “Harlem of the West” that had drawn Ella Fitz- sistance for the displaced, and replacement housing gerald and Duke Ellington, Rogers went to pro- from the San Francisco redevelopment agency. In test to the city’s redevelopment agency. With just 1975, WACO’s legal actions against redevelopment a ninth grade education Mary became an expert resulted in the Federal Uniform Relocation Act,

150 CHANGEMAKERS served as a founding board member of Westside Mary Helen Rogers was a Mental Health Clinic, a board member of Agape tenacious and effective Outreach Center, chair of the San Francisco June- teenth Committee, and a parent volunteer at the advocate for housing rights Raphael Weill Elementary School, later known as Rosa Parks Elementary School. in San Francisco. Rogers died on March 3, 2006, after a long bat- which spread all throughout the United States and tle with cancer. However, her fi ght for fair and eq- stated that if federal money is used to displace a per- uitable treatment of school-aged children, African son, federal money must be used to relocate them. American families, welfare recipients, community Rogers said: “We saw that kids got back in school, churches, and minority businesses will not be forgot- that mothers got their welfare grants on time, and ten. A senior community center has been named in cleaned up the streets with brooms and shovels.” honor of Rogers in the Western Addition and, in On becoming an activist, Rogers says that it cooperation with the Department of Public Health’s was the housing situation in the Fillmore that in- Direct Access to Housing Program, now houses spired her: “[I] really got angry when I found out low-income and formerly homeless seniors. Mayor that nobody wanted to rent to black families.” She Gavin Newsom fondly described Rogers as someone saw urban renewal in the Fillmore for what it was, “blessed with a nurturing and ever-generous spirit, the bottom line was to move out the black commu- she unfl inchingly came to the defense of those in nity, build luxury high rises, and give the proper- need of a voice and a hand.” Rogers fought tireless- ties to incoming suburbanites. Those aff ected were ly until her last days for justice in the Fillmore and, given a set amount of $2,000 for moving costs and spurred by her passion for community activism, left were left helpless to do anything about it. Rogers, a legacy of female black excellence. however retaliated: “My position was, I refused to —Hannah Shepherd accept that I couldn’t stay where I wanted to stay. I refused to go somewhere else because I was black. Works Cited I decided I wasn’t going to move. I wasn’t going anywhere until I got good and ready.” Bulwa, Demian. “Mary Rogers—S.F. community Rogers went on and served as a San Francis- activist.” SFGate, 13 Jan. 2012. co Housing Authority community relations man- “Mary Rogers Community Organizer.” KQED. ager. She founded the Western Addition Citizens “Mary Helen Rogers Senior Community.” Chinatown Advisory Committee, which provided broad-based Community Development Center. community input to publicly funded development Pelosi, Nancy. “Honoring Mary Rogers.” 152 Cong. initiatives. Rogers then served as a secretary/trea- Rec.(Bound) 3561—Honoring MaryRogers. Welch, Calvin. “WACO Attacks Redevelopment.” surer of the National Tenants Association. She also

151 CHIEF

PRENTICE EARL IMAGE

COURTESY SANDERS

OF

SFPD

ORMER San Francisco Police Chief Prentice Prentice Earl Sanders served as the fi rst African American FEarl Sanders was a prominent infl uencer in the Chief of Police in San Francisco. San Francisco Police Department’s homicide de- partment for decades before being named chief by School Eagle Society. Before graduating high school Mayor Willie L. Brown in 2002. Numerous accom- he moved into an apartment in the Fillmore district, plishments, including his role in promoting the civil at the invitation of the family of Kelly Waterfi eld, rights work for San Francisco’s Offi cers for Justice, with whom he remained lifelong friends. earned Sanders a place on the Inspiration murals After graduating high school Sanders attended at the Ella Hill Hutch Community Center in the City College of San Francisco, where he earned his Western Addition. associate’s degree. In the late 1950s, after his sti- Sanders was born in Nacogdoches, Texas, in pend from the Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity had run 1937. (His birth certifi cate read “Prettiest Earl Sand- out, he joined the Army National Guard. Before ers,” which he changed to “Prentice” when he start- he turned 21, he has already joined the US Army ed elementary school.) When he was fi ve, his mother Offi cers Candidate School (OCS) in Fort Benning, moved to Houston, marrying William Lacy. Sanders Georgia, where he would go on to graduate fi rst attended segregated schools in Houston before his in his OCS class. The virulent racism of the time family moved, under tense circumstances, to Los meant he could not regularly leave the base, so Angeles, where Sanders’s mother thought schools he studied, eventually returning to California as a would likely be better. Earl’s upbringing in Los An- Second Lieutenant. Sanders remained in the Cal- geles, however, was also challenging, and after his ifornia National Guard into the 1970s, ultimately mother died when he was 14, Sanders ran away to retiring at the rank of Captain. San Francisco to escape his step-father, and to make Sanders’s drive for education was lifelong. In his own way. Sanders enrolled at Washington High the 1970s, even while rising through the ranks in School, living for a time at a nearby boarding house, the police department, he attended Golden Gate earning high grades, even as he worked in the eve- University, ultimately earning his undergraduate nings. He was a member of the Washington High degree and his masters degree in public administra-

152 CHANGEMAKERS Long before he was appointed cides. Sanders worked on some of San Francisco’s best known cases alongside his partner Rotea Gil- Chief in 2002, Earl Sanders was ford. Most notable was their role in solving of “Ze- bra murders,” where more than a dozen white San a respected detective in the San Franciscans were killed. Sanders co-authored a very Francisco Police Department. compelling book entitled The Zebra Murders: A Season of Killing, Racial Madness and Civil Rights, detailing the tion, summa cum laude. Later still, Sanders’ quest for very stressful conditions he faced. The department education earned him a place as a Coro Foundation expected Sanders, Gilford, and others to use their Fellow, and he received an executive certifi cate in “black status” as advantages in the investigation, but public policy from the Harvard Kennedy School. clarifi ed that there would be no backup from white In 1964, Sanders joined the police department af- offi cers. As one book overview put it, “In those im- ter being honorably discharged from the Army, and possible conditions—the oppressive white power serving for a time in the Social Security Administra- structure on one hand, the violent black radicals on tion. He faced many hurdles as an African Amer- the other—Sanders and Gilford” faced tremendous ican in the police department (particularly galling challenges, which they handled with strength and was the temporary thwarting of his career through equanimity, as they eventually brought the murder- medical tests intended to deny him a place in the ers to justice. SFPD, which Sanders fought and won). In response Sanders continued to rise through the ranks at to an unwelcoming environment, he joined the Of- SFPD. In 1995 Mayor Willie L. Brown appointed fi cers for Justice, which was a cohort of offi cers who him as second in command at SFPD. Eventually worked to address the prejudicial nature of promo- Sanders was appointed Chief, on July 4, 2002. Sand- tions within the police system. (Sanders later served ers is now enjoying his retirement with his family, as president of Offi cers for Justice.) This group fi led with his place in San Francisco Police Department a class action discrimination suit against the SFPD history more than assured. in 1973, and Sanders was among the fi rst to testify —Olivia Walker and members of the Martín-Baró Scholars Program about the indignities he braved at the department. After signifi cant legal battles, the use of unfair test- Works Cited ing was fi nally offi cially overturned, and Sanders Herron Zamora, Jim, and Ilene Lelchuk. “Earl Sanders— and his team helped to cement the consent decree New Chief PA.” SF Chronicle, 12 July 2002. that “became a model for every police department Mandel, Bill. “Faces Behind the Long Arm of the Law.” SF across the nation, forever changing the face of polic- Examiner, 22 May 1994. Sanders, Marcus. Personal communication. Jan. 2020. ing in America” (Sanders and Cohen 266). Sanders, Prentice Earl, and Bennett Cohen. The Zebra Over the course of the next few years, Sanders Murders: A Season of Killing, Racial Madness, and Civil Rights. was promoted to inspector, specializing in homi- 2006. Arcade: New York.

153 THOMATRA PUBLIC

SCOTT DOMAIN

IMAGE

HOMATRA SCOTT, a youth program coordina- Ttor for the Economic Opportunity Council’s (EOC) Multiservice Center, broke the status quo to elicit a change within his community. He was an advocate for kids in education, health, housing, employment, human rights, prison reform and cul- tural/ethnic issues. Thomatra Scott was unable to pursue his ed- ucation after high school and became a taxi driv- Thomatra Scott was a founding member of the Westside er while beginning his work in the Western Addi- Mental Health Center. tion. In 1969, at the height of the Black Power era, Scott joined the Pan–African People’s Organization known as Polytechnic High School. According to (PAPO) where he promoted Kwanza and the sev- Susan Almazol of the San Francisco Chronicle, stu- en principles of the holiday to black neighborhoods. dents attending this school were dropouts, arrested Rapid expansion of community activities were ad- juveniles, and tended to have “delinquent tenden- ministered through the NAACP and the Council cies.” Scott’s dedication and enthusiasm for edu- for Civic Unity, which led to the growth of youth cation manifested into a tough, non-compromising affi liated activities to promote safe and healthy liv- attitude towards both his students and government ing. Scott began organizing a drum and bugle corps agencies. He felt that the youth should be involved through the Congress of Racial Equality (CORE) in the decisions being made about their education. which brought students together from all back- Scott’s deep sincerity and commitment to the well- grounds to create music on their own terms without being of the Western Addition youth was evident outside hindrance. in his work leading the State Legislative Sympo- Scott was a husband and father to one daugh- sium on Children and Youth Services, while also ter and was also the honorary parent to hundreds participating as an active board member in the in the Western Addition. His focus was centered Westside Community Mental Health Center. Scott on the San Francisco Postal Street Academy, also recognized that the growing number of adolescent

154 CHANGEMAKERS teenagers in the street was a direct result of the attitude of aggression towards Thomatra Scott and poor educational services provided by the city. In his compatriots began to dissipate as societal norms response to this growing issue, he fought against shifted on a global scale and racial prejudice be- the government’s closure of the San Francisco came less accepted. Acknowledging his city-wide Postal Street Academy by counseling and encour- eff orts validates the previously underrepresented aging boys being released from detention centers youth. to “spell out the hard truths of the results of their Until his death in 2000, Thomatra Scott was a neglect from their ghetto childhood” (Hamilton prominent fi gure in the Western Addition because and Dungan). The introduction of remedial read- of his extensive work in promoting the importance ing courses was created for the youth reentering so- of education and for his eff orts in keeping adoles- ciety in an eff ort to prove the program’s legitimacy cent teens out of correctional facilities. Scott’s lega- to the government. cy will live on through Young Adults, Inc., and the Thomatra Scott frequently told his students, dynamic tutoring, counseling, and drug prevention “Getting out with a degree to make a buck isn’t that became a model on a national level. enough. You have a commitment to the youngsters you left behind who aren’t in school” (Hamilton and —Annelise Suleiman and Zoe Foster Dungan). Scott emphasized the importance of giv- ing back to the community and fostered the person- Works Cited al growth of its members. In 1977, two years after his fi ght with the gov- “A Clash Over New Poly High Principal.” SF Chronicle, 2 Sept. 1970, A 7. ernment, Scott was honored as a longtime youth Almazol, Susan. “Area Youth Units Pushed.” SF Chronicle, worker. He received a grant to go toward “creating 18 June 1969. youth foundations in their names, assisting in de- “Awards Honor the Distinguished Ten.” SF Chronicle, veloping youth projects and awarding scholarships 30 Mar. 1975. to deserving disadvantaged young people” (Ham- Hamilton, Mildred and Dungan, Eloise. “Activist for Youth.” SF Chronicle,16 Mar. 1975. ilton and Dungan). The grant contributed towards “Poly High States Demands to Board.” SF Chronicle, Scott’s eff orts in growing Young Adults, Inc., and 6 Aug. 1969. expanding their mission to reach youth beyond the Sixty-Two Heroes and Pioneers of the Western Addition. San Francisco area. African American Cultural and Historical Society. 2010. “Western Addition Achievers Win First S.F. Foundation In 1983, Scott became the fi rst Western Ad- Awards.” SF Examiner, 22 Apr. 1983, B14. dition candidate to win an award from the San Wong, Ken. “Crisis at School for Dropouts.” SF Examiner, Francisco Foundation. Activists were honored for 17 May 1972, A 12. work in education and youth development. Scott was labeled as a “motivator and activist” for chil- dren, according to the San Francisco Examiner. The

155 JOSEPH ‘BUNNY’ IMAGE

SIMON COURTESY

OF

SF

GATE OSEPH FLOYD ‘BUNNY’ SIMON, a man of humble Jbeginnings, born on November 24, 1928, into Joseph ‘Bunny’ Simon. a family of 16 in Lake Charles, Louisiana, became an ambitious entrepreneur who opened multiple they would both achieve fame. He went on to own jazz clubs across the city of San Francisco. Long and run the Grand Bayou catering business, even before he earned the moniker “Bunny,” his parents as he earned a place as the fi rst African American Elizabeth and Alcide Simon had nicknamed him Supervisor for the US Post Offi ce in North Beach. “Bonne,” a Creole term of endearment. At the Simon claimed that both professions helped him young age of 15, Simon joined the Navy, where establish his management skills. In 1961, Simon he served as a Seman. After sustaining a serious opened his fi rst club on Divisadero and McAllister injury at Port Chicago, he recovered, and was Streets, a place that would later be known as the honorably discharged in 1946. He then settled in Playpen. The club instantly became a hot spot. San Francisco, to continue his amazing journey, In a neighborhood that had been so thorough- enrolling at city college. ly divided due to the city’s poorly executed rede- In 2010, Simon sat down with JJ Parson, the velopment plan, the Playpen was a place where all general manager of the Fillmore’s community ra- members of the Fillmore could gather, regardless dio station KPOO, to discuss how he brought a of socioeconomic status. Before live entertain- wide variety of famous musicians to the Fillmore. ment, community members would line up around Not unlike many young ambitious entrepreneurs, the block to have drinks with fellow neighbors and Simon joined the workforce at a young age and dance to the music of the nearest jukebox. Simon started working multiple jobs in the hopes of even- was determined to bring the neighborhood togeth- tually opening his own business. It became clear er in any way possible. It got to the point where that music was his passion once he picked up a part even teenagers were allowed to attend the club on time job at the Fillmore’s Melrose Record Shop. Sunday afternoons (with adult chaperones). Simon worked alongside before Simon recalled a time in the early 1960s when

156 CHANGEMAKERS young politician Willie L. Brown, Jr., opened his minorities introduced into the hospitality industry. campaign headquarters across the street from The The Simons would eventually retire and move to Playpen. Willie was so convinced that The Playpen Marin County to care for his garden and spend time was an attractive spot that it was a part of the rea- writing about his experiences. son he lost in the 18th District election. He claimed Simon remained connected to the youth, even that all the men, including himself, who were sup- in his retirement: he donated a pair of 49ers season posed to be working on his campaign spent their tickets to a youth education program in the Fill- days at the club instead. more, and he awarded 50-yard line tickets to com- As Simon’s club became increasingly popu- munity groups for many years to reward students lar, famous artists and comedians fl ocked from who had shown improvements in both their grades cross-country to perform at the venue. Artists like and personal conduct. , , Wes Montgomery, Sly and In recognition of his many contributions to the Family Stone, Ike and Tina Turner, and numer- community, Simon received a Lifetime Achieve- ous others took the stage in the upper room at The ment Award from the San Francisco Branch of the Playpen. Etta James would also frequently perform NAACP in 2016. at another one of Simon’s clubs called The Full Simon had fi ve children with his late wife, Bet- Moon Saloon. Venues like these helped retain the tye Opal Simon Johnson. Three of the fi ve children Fillmore’s cultural presence, helping to garner it the are still alive today to remember his story. Simon’s title “Harlem of the West.” Simon went on to open eldest daughter, Dhameera Carlotta Ahmad, recent- up seven more clubs throughout the city, including ly passed away in 2017. Dhameera was a proud ac- The Rambler’s House and the Blue Thistle. tivist within the Black Panther Party. On November 21, 1969, Simon married Anna Sadly, Joseph Simon passed away on July 20, Simien, whom he had known for seven years. Soon 2019, but as Anna Simon his wife and all who knew thereafter Simon was asked to take on the great re- him can attest, Simon clearly left a lasting legacy. sponsibility of directing international recruitment for the Peace Corps in the mid-1970s. After return- —Marcelo Swoff ord, Sormeh Naderi, and Meisy Tunay ing to San Francisco, the Simons opened a new club in 1976, the Anxious Asp, on Haight Street. Works Cited The Simons moved to Sausalito in 1978, run- ning their business from Marin County. They soon “Bunny Talks Playpen on KPOO.” Youtube, uploaded by Marcus Books Music, 5 April 2010. expanded the club, which attracted talent such “San Francisco—S.F. Youth Center Given 49er Season as Pete Escovedo, Billy Preston, and Al Jarreau, Tickets.” SF Chronicle, 4 Aug. 1993. among others. In 1990 the couple sold the busi- Simon, Anna. Personal interview. 27 Jan. 2020. ness to the Red Vic. All told, the couple employed “Successful Entrepreneur and Civil Rights Advocate more than 1000 individuals, many of whom were Joseph Floyd ‘Bunny’ Simon.” [Obituary.]

157 THELMA AND IMAGE

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HELMA AND BENJAMIN Smith earned their place NORRIS Ton the Ella Hill Hutch Community Center In- spiration Murals for their extraordinary infl uence as parents in the community (Ness). Benjamin Smith, SR., known by his friends as Thelma and Benjamin Smith as depicted on the Inspiration “BJ,” was a community leader in the Western Ad- Murals. dition neighborhood and was a mentor for many young people who lived there. His dedication to operator and line trainer for the San Francisco Mu- family values resonated throughout the neighbor- nicipal Transit Authority (SFMTA). Smith passed hood and made him a role model to the many peo- down his dedication and passion for his work to his ple who knew him. Born on September 16, 1926, children. An SFMTA article notes that Benjamin to Albert Berlin Smith, Sr., and Sallie Louis Smith Smith “was a Muni operator for nearly 20 years, in Leesville, Louisiana, Benjamin and his family and seven of the nine Smith children continued his would move to Tulsa, Oklahoma, then Merced, legacy, working at Muni” (“A Muni Family Remem- California, before fi nally settling in San Francisco bers Their Warriors Superstar”). Smith’s commit- (Obituary). Upon graduating from San Francisco’s ment to his job is refl ected in the legacy that he left Commerce High School during the height of the behind in the SFMTA community, a legacy that is Second World War, Smith joined the segregated continually upheld by his children. U.S. Army and was stationed in Alaska until he was Benjamin and Thelma worked hard to provide honorably discharged in 1947. for their family. They made a focused eff ort to set After the war, Smith met his wife Thelma Payne a positive example for both their children and the and the two moved to San Francisco to raise their community as a whole. The Smiths deeply valued family of nine children. Smith had to work a multi- the role of education and instilled these beliefs in tude of jobs in order to support such a large family, their children from a young age. SFMTA reporter sometimes working “two or three simultaneously” Victoria Botts noted, “It was [Benjamin and Thel- (Obituary). Benjamin worked as a cab driver, a jan- ma’s] mission to see their children succeed and itor, at a meat market, and eventually as a transit overcome the obstacles presented here in the neigh-

158 CHANGEMAKERS Thelma and Benjamin Smith fond of his role in assisting the USF Athletic Pro- instilled the value of education gram with recruitment of athletes. One of Benjamin and Thelma’s sons, Phillip, in all nine of their children. would even go on to become an NBA player and win an NBA championship with the Golden State borhood” (“A Muni Family Remembers Their Warriors in 1975. Phil was known for being a caring Warriors Superstar”). The task of raising such a and humble individual in addition to being an elite large family in the Western Addition neighborhood basketball player. His excellence on and off the bas- was not always easy, but Thelma and Benjamin saw ketball court is, in many ways, a testament to Ben- education as a way to combat the negative forces jamin and Thelma’s dedication to raising a family they observed. Alexis Hubbard, volunteer at the with strong moral, social, and educational values. Ella Hill Hutch Community Center, explained, An SFMTA employee explains that the Smith “They were outspoken as to the importance of ed- home was “awash with memories and photos of ucation and did everything in their power to ensure virtually each and every one of Benjamin and their children succeeded academically” (“A Muni Thelma Smith’s nine children, their grandchildren Family Remembers Their Warriors Superstar”). Al- and their great grandchildren” (“A Muni Family though Benjamin Smith had a strong appreciation Remembers Their Warriors Superstar”). for sports, education was an aspect that he made a Adored grandmother of 25, and great-grand- priority for his children. This emphasis on using ed- mother of four, Thelma Smith passed away on July ucation as a tool to better one’s own circumstances 3, 2005. She was survived by Benjamin Smith, Sr., is one of the Smith family’s cornerstone principles. who passed away on June 23, 2018, at the age of In addition to being a loving husband and fa- 91. The Smith family legacy lives on through their ther, Benjamin Smith was a role model and mentor children, grandchildren and great grandchildren to many young people growing up in the Western whom they dearly loved. Addition neighborhood. As his obituary notes, “BJ not only taught youth about sports, but gave them —Zachary James life lessons and spiritual advice.” In addition to his community support, it was also well known that Works Cited Benjamin would always fi nd a way to make time “A Celebration of Life of Benjamin Smith, Sr.” for his family amidst his busy schedule of numerous Providence Baptist Church. 6 July 2018. jobs. His obituary points out that, “Even after work- “A Muni Family Remembers Their Warriors ing two or three jobs he still made time to raise and Superstar.” 27 May 2016. SFMTA coach all his children to be outstanding individuals.” Ness, Carol. “Faces of Black Success.” SFGate. Throughout his life, Benjamin enjoyed playing 6 July 1999. and watching sports, especially basketball, and was “Thelma Vivian Smith.” Legacy.com. 2005.

159 PHIL

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HILLIP ARNOLD SMITH was an inspirational bas- WIKIPEDIA Pketball player and remarkable man. He was born on April 22, 1952, in San Francisco to Ben- jamin and Thelma Smith. Smith was the second youngest of nine children. Growing up, his love for basketball was immense. According to his brother, Stephen Smith, basketball was “probably the big- gest thing on the planet.” He attended Washington Phil Smith, star of the Golden State Warriosrs. High School where he played both football and basketball. He went on to attend the University of San Francisco. In his four years at USF, from praise for the young shooting guard from USF: 1971–1974, he led the Dons to multiple NCAA “For a rookie to come into the league and to tournament appearances, going as far as the sec- have this big an impact in the team’s success was ond round. He averaged 21 points his senior year a rarity.” Smith went on to have two NBA All-Star to go along with All-American honors. Despite appearances in 1976 and 1977, All-NBA 2nd Team his achievements at the collegiate level, it wasn’t selection in the 1975–1976 season, and All-Defen- enough to garner a fi rst round selection in the NBA sive 2nd Team honors the same season. He’s one draft. of the best players to ever put on a Warriors uni- Still relatively unknown, he was drafted by the form and if it wasn’t for an Achilles tendon injury, San Francisco Warriors in the second round. The his coaches believe, he would have been remem- Warriors didn’t know yet but they had just drafted bered as one of the greatest of all time. His career an instrumental piece for their 1975 championship concluded with two-year stints with the San Diego run. Smith led a comeback in Game 1 of the 1974– Clippers and the Seattle Supersonics. 1975 NBA Finals against the Washington Bullets In 1975, Phil married his college sweetheart which set the tone for the rest of the series. The Angela and, according to his former USF coach Warriors ended up winning in a 4-0 sweep. Smith’s Bob Gaillard, he fainted during his vows. Phil teammate and Hall of Famer Rick Barry had high and Angela settled down in Escondido, Califor-

160 CHANGEMAKERS Phil Smith played an ketballs. You saw a revolution in the neighborhood because this one dude from the neighborhood had instrumental role on the made it.” After four long years battling bone marrow Golden State Warriors cancer, Phillip Arnold Smith passed away on July championship team in 1975, 29, 2002, in his home in Escondido, California, at the age of 50. He remains an inspiration to those but he was also an inspiration in the Fillmore and is still widely recognized by the basketball community. In 2017, in honor of Black off the court. History Month, NBA.com posted a video com- memorating his story featuring Rick Barry, Bill nia where they had fi ve children and remained Cartwright, and members of his family, all telling married for 27 years. Alicia, his eldest daughter, stories of the late great Phil Smith. Although bas- said that her father was a family man who always ketball was his fi rst love, nothing would surpass stressed the importance of education before ath- his love for his family. His former coach, Al Attles, letics. The Smith’s family values have been com- once said, “As great as he was as a basketball play- memorated with a portrait of Thelma and Ben- er, he was a much better person,” and that is how jamin Smith on the Ella Hill Hutch Community his legacy is remembered. Center mural. Even in fame, Phil was a dedicated family man, choosing to spend time at home with —Jesse Cortes his brothers rather than with his teammates in the spotlight. After an interview with Smith’s younger Works Cited brother, Matthew, Mark De Andre wrote, “It was basketball that kept Matthew Smith and his broth- “A Muni Family Remembers Their Warriors ers on the straight and narrow. Basketball, and Superstar.” SFMTA, 27 May. 2016. “Phil Smith Statistics” Basketball Reference. 2018. parents determined to see their children succeed “Phil Smith.” University of San Francisco. 2018. despite the pitfalls that ruled the inner-city streets “Phil Smith.” Wikipedia. 2019. of the Fillmore District in the 1970s.” Phillip Smith inspired new generations of peo- ple to play basketball. His story was that of success and it echoed throughout the neighborhood. Bill Cartwright, a former NBA player and USF alum- ni, said, “When Phillip made it to the pros, guys who had never picked up in their life— robbers, muggers, thieves—began to pick up bas-

161 REUBEN

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N THE WALLS of the Fillmore’s Ella Hill Hutch GATE OCommunity Center, stands a mural of one of the neighborhood’s foremost youth advocates, Reu- ben “Smitty” Smith. Smith was born in 1933 and was raised on the Upper West Side of New York City. After graduating from Saint Augustine’s Col- lege in in 1957, Smith served in the Reuben Smith U.S. Army. In 1963, he moved from Harlem to the Bay Area because he “wanted to see what was hap- pening on this side of the world” (Millard). After moving across the country, Smith recog- In an interview with the San Francisco Examiner, nized that America was a country of great inequity. Smith elucidates his dedication to uplifting the next He began his career working to infl uence the lives generation of Hunters Point: “In my mind, most of of children, stating that he wanted “to improve these kids, when they become adults, they should be the quality of people’s lives. These young people better than me, with all the opportunities they have” are citizens of tomorrow, and that’s all we have. (Millard). He encouraged the idea of “actions not They’re going to run the city and run the country, words.” Though he was a man of few words, when and a lot of people don’t realize that” (Millard). he spoke he spoke profoundly when he served as a He became an agent of change when he was po- mentor and big brother fi gure to many (Yollin). sitioned as the Executive Director of the Hunters Smith established connections with all his Point Boys and Girls Club in 1970. Hunters Point members and often played pool and ping-pong with carried a reputation for being heavily impover- them. He took the children to the library, Golden ished. Unemployment played an impactful role in Gate Park, Mt. Diablo State Park, and many other the socioeconomic makeup of the neighborhood. places that were worth the excursion. During the After arriving in Hunters Point, Smith connected time spent with the boys, Smith had become a big with the community, took it as his own, and never brother, mentor, and even father fi gure to many. gave up on the children he mentored. Robert Duty, a 62 year-old El Cerrito real es-

162 CHANGEMAKERS Reuben Smith was Director Boys and Girls Club open. On January 26, 2006, Smith helped steer a project with the city alongside of the Hunters Point Boys and Rob Connolly, President of the San Francisco Boys and Girls Club, to grant $1 million in funding to Girls Club for 38 years. Hunters Point Boys Club. For the remainder of his life, Smith danced to tate broker, was 14 when he met Mr. Smith. Duty jazz and continued to reveal the potential of his remembers Smith as “a big kid himself” (Yollin). community (Brown). He died from cardiovascular Duty also saw Smith as a father fi gure: “He was disease on December 25, 2008, at the age of 74 at very personable. He was not pretentious and he the Alta Bates Hospital in Berkeley. Five hundred was a real down-to-earth person. Kids really iden- mourners, including generations of youth who he tifi ed with him. He was not like all the other adults. inspired, gathered together at his memorial. Reu- He started a bodybuilding program. A lot of older ben “Smitty” Smith is remembered as an inspi- gang members came to lift weights with him. Every- ration who encouraged youth to believe that they one related to him” (Yollin). could be successful. Smith was more than just a fun mentor, he was —Juliet Baires also an eff ective disciplinarian who used construc- tive methods to correct the children’s misbehavior. Works Cited In one incident, a boy was misbehaving and Smith corrected him by saying “Why don’t you go into Brown, Willie (Mayor). “Resolution 930-01” City the men’s room and take a look in the mirror?” He of San Francisco, 19 Nov. 2001. would allow the boys to take a moment to refl ect Hunters Point Boys & Girls Club, June 2000. upon themselves and recognize their worth and Millard, Max. “Hunters Point Boys &Amp; Girls Club.” value as growing gentlemen. He would then say, Murphy, Pat. “Loving Arms of Private and Public “Did you like what you saw? Well, you don’t have Sector Forge $1 Million Hunters Point Youth Cen- to act up then” (Yollin). His simple yet empower- ter.” Fog City Journal, 7 Jan. 2006. “Reuben ‘Smitty’ Smith.” SF Chronicle, 1 Feb. 2008, ing ways of discipline made Smith a parental fi g- Yollin, Patricia. “ ‘Smitty’ Smith, Mentor to Youth, ure to many. Dies at 74.” SFGate, 31 Jan. 2008. Smith retired from Hunters Point Boys and Girls Club after 38 years in 2001. To recognize his exemplary service and commitment to the Hunters Point Boys and Girls Club, Mayor Willie L. Brown declared “Reuben Smith Day” on July 20, 2002. Even in retirement, Smith was strongly com- mitted to keeping the doors of the Hunters Point

163 IMAGE

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SMITH RUDY

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SUSAN

UDY SMITH, from legendary American Foot- BRISSENDEN Rball running back at San Francisco State

University to Chief Probation Offi cer of Juvenile - SMITH Services in San Francisco, has long cemented his legacy as a changemaker. Smith’s perseverance, hard work, and passion, allowed him to make sig- Rudy Smith in 2018. nifi cant impact in San Francisco. Smith was often written about in local news- papers during his collegiate playing career, with a itary service spanned three years of active duty majority of those writings being in praise of abili- and several years in the reserves, culminating in ties. For instance, in 1950 the San Francisco Chronicle his promotion to the rank of Major. wrote that “star running-back (Right Half) Rudy Upon returning to San Francisco with a young Smith for SF State was deemed ‘Gator star of the family, Rudy held several jobs, including acting as evening’ after a 58-yard run from scrimmage was a cable car gripman, until he found his calling the longest run of the night to score their second with San Francisco Juvenile Probation, serving at touchdown.” In his fi rst dominant years at San the Youth Guidance Center. In this role, Smith Francisco State University, he was renowned for fostered relationships with the community leading going on scoring streaks throughout the season. him to work throughout the 1960s with city lead- Rudy was inducted into the SFSU gridiron Hall ers such as Lefty Gordon and many others who of Fame in 1992 as a result of his achievements. are memorialized on the Inspiration Murals. Before fi nding his way into juvenile services, In 1970 Smith was recruited to work for a Smith entered the Air Force after graduating from special new probation unit called Watoto in East SF State in 1955. As a second lieutenant he was Palo Alto (“watoto” means “children” in Swahili). trained as a pilot at Luke Air Force Base, near He accepted the challenge of this experiment, uti- Phoenix, Arizona. His close friend Rotea Gilford lizing community street workers in an attempt to was quoted as saying that Rudy’s landing of a jet stem the of crime in this community. was more like a “controlled crash.” Rudy’s mil- After serving for many years in San Mateo

164 CHANGEMAKERS Recruited by Mayor Willie L. such as the Western Addition, have never wavered in their appreciation for the impact he has made. Brown, Rudy Smith served as Smith’s impact can be captured by a recent experience. Smith was out at lunch when he was Chief Probation Offi cer for approached by a young man who asked, “Are you San Francisco’s Probation Mr. Smith?” When Rudy replied that he was, the young man said, “I want to thank you—you were Services, advocating for youth my P.O. in S.F. and I was on the wrong path. You and restorative justice. saved my life.” Who could hope for a more impactful legacy?

County, through opportune timing and impres- — Marcelo Swoff ord and Susan Brissenden-Smith sive experience, Smith became the second in com- mand at San Francisco’s embattled juvenile proba- tion department, having been recruited by Mayor Works Cited Willie L. Brown to take over in 1996. He had previously served as San Mateo County’s juvenile “Gators Crush Humboldt.” SF Chronicle. 21 Oct. 1950. intake/traffi c director, a position of equal impor- “Juvenile Jolt.” SF Chronicle. 5 Jun. 1996. tance in juvenile and probation services. He said Moore, Teresa. “Juvenile Hall Offi cial Was About to Be Replaced.” SF Chronicle. 21 Oct. 1996. of the opportunity to serve in San Francisco: “I’m “SF State Scores First, then Bows to Poets, 41–20.” excited. It’s quite a challenge,” at the limber age SF Chronicle. 14 Oct. 1950. of 63 years old. Smith was granted the position of interim chief probation offi cer that same year after Ed Flowers had resigned from the position. Here, Smith led discussions for plans to reorganize the department’s budget and to correct the actions of accounting director Ace Tago, after embezzle- ment troubles of up to $100,000 had been discov- ered. Smith made every eff ort to reform Juvenile Services in San Francisco before his retirement. Rudy Smith led a varied career in the fi elds of juvenile/probation services, and much more. It was his demeanor and purpose in every position he would go on to tackle that set him apart as a changemaker. Although he has been retired for many years, the communities he has worked in,

165 JAMES E. IMAGE

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HELEN

STRATTEN AMES E. STRATTEN was born in Cedartown, Geor- Jgia, on November 20, 1913. He later attended Talladega College in Alabama where he earned his bachelor’s degree before moving to New York James E. Stratten to attend to receive a mas- ter’s degree in physical education (SFGate). He went on to play professional football with the New York Street back to the Japanese community after their Brown Bombers and Black Hawks in addition to displacement and removal to internment camps. playing semi-pro basketball in the Central New Jer- This refounding of the school was one of Stratten’s sey League (“New Supervisor”). In 1945 Stratten, dreams coming to fruition. He truly wanted to cre- who at the time was working as a regional super- ate a place where people of diff erent ages and ethnic visor for the United Service Organizations in New identities could come together and celebrate the di- York, decided to move to San Francisco (SFGate). versity of the Western Addition. In 1945, James Stratten was appointed as Execu- During his tenure at the Booker T. Washington tive Director of the Booker T. Washington Commu- Community Center, Stratten earned many presti- nity Center (BTWCC), which was founded during gious accolades and honors. In 1947, he became the World War I to serve the needs of the impoverished fi rst African American to be named to a grand jury and neglected black community. Stratten’s primary in California. During his service, he was a represen- goal at the center was to create diff erent multicul- tative at the White House Conference on Children tural programs emphasizing leadership, responsibil- and Youth and the White House Conference on ity, and education. He was responsible for founding Education. He also served on the California Youth programs like the Japanese Language School at the Committee and was appointed to the Republican Community Center. Stratten worked closely with the State Central Committee (“New Supervisor”). Ad- Japanese community once they began to move back ditionally, Mayor appointed Strat- into the Fillmore after World War II and they were ten to be part of the San Francisco Redevelopment able to return the language school building on Bush Agency where he served from 1950 to 1956 (“New

166 CHANGEMAKERS Supervisor”). In 1954, he served as a member of at Lowell High School in San Francisco. Ronald also the California State Board of Education, and from worked for the NCAA’s Education Services division 1954 to 1960 he served on the advisory council of and followed in his father’s footsteps as a football the California Congress of Parents and Teachers coach at Portland State University (Bodovitz). (“New Supervisor”). While working there, he rep- James E. Stratten left a rich legacy within the resented the interests of the Fillmore community Western Addition community. He was a vitally im- (SFGate). portant individual and left an imprint through his Stratten was appointed by Mayor George Chris- knowledge of community engagement and his un- topher to the San Francisco School Board in 1961, derstanding of the community’s assets. Not only and then again in 1963 (SFGate). In 1964, he be- was Stratten able to speak for the African American came the fi rst African American president of the community but he also made an eff ort to include school board (Obituary). As the San Francisco other cultural groups, such as the Japanese people School Board President, he was able to engage the who were integrating back from the internment community in how the district could better benefi t camps. In essence, James E. Stratten has a place on the area by receiving the input of those living there. the Ella Hill Hutch mural because he was a strong After stepping down from the Booker T. Wash- advocate for the Fillmore and worked to help others ington Center in 1967, he took a position appoint- fi nd their voices. Stratten died on March 30, 1996, ed by Governor Ronald Reagan with the National but his legacy lives on through the changes he made Afro-American History and Culture Commission as in the school districts in San Francisco and through the Administrative Representative to the Youth Au- those that he inspired along the way. thority (SFGate). There he used his experience from more than 20 years of work at Booker T. Washing- —Nell Baylis, Zoe Foster, and Ethan Tan ton Community Center to help other organizations. Unfortunately he was taken off the school board the Works Cited same year he accepted this new job by Mayor John F. Shelley because Attorney General Thomas Lynch Bodovitz, Joe. “Stratten—the Man, the Job.” SF Examiner, 24 Mar. 1961, p. 9. said that his new job made him an “offi cer of the Booker T. Washington Community Center. A Legacy state.” City Attorney Thomas M. O’Conner said of Victory. San Francisco: Booker T. Washington that Stratten’s old job as a member of the school Community Center, 2008. board made him an offi cer of the city and it was History of Booker T. Washington Community Center. decreed by the city charter that Stratten could not May 2008. serve in both positions at once (“School Board”). “Obituary—James E. Stratten.” SFGate. 15 Apr. 1996. James E. Stratten inspired the lives of many, in- Wax, Mel. “New Supervisor, SF School Board Member cluding his son Ronald Stratten, who was the fi rst Named.” SF Chronicle, 23 Mar. 1961, pp. 1–2. black student elected as the student body president

167

JAMES

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THIGPEN COURTESY

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I S AMES THIGPEN, one of the many notable com- Jmunity leaders depicted upon the Ella Hill Hutch Community Center Wall, was a man who thrived against the odds to become a well known and successful entrepreneur, restaurateur, and local James Thigpen on the Ella Hill Hutch Community Center Mural. San Francisco philanthropist. Born in Chicago on March 8, 1940, James Thigpen found himself in an era wrought with racism and prejudice. How- by his wish to better the future of the community ever, he never doubted his potential and was even- through its youth. He was able to fund his contribu- tually able to attend Cornell University where he tions to the community through the money that he earned a bachelor’s degree in Hotel and Restau- made with the various hotels and restaurants that rant Management. Thigpen’s degree refl ects the he owned such as the Blue Diamond, The Terrace passion that he held for taking care of others. Restaurant at San Francisco International Airport, Thigpen did not want his newfound skills to Thiggy’s at Lincoln Park Golf Course and Thig- go to waste and became an avid member in the gy’s in Golden Gate Park. As one of Thigpen’s hotel, restaurant, and educational aid industries. most well-known restaurants, Thiggy’s in the Rich- He was a participant on numerous boards: S.R. mond was even host to events like mayoral debates. Martin College Preparatory School, the California Sandra Crumpler, a business associate and Lutheran University Board of Regents, the Golden friend of Thigpen explained: “He was always go- Gate University Committee on Hotel Restaurant ing to annual conferences for disadvantaged busi- Tourism Management, the San Francisco Black nesses who wanted to get into airports…He was Chamber of Commerce, and the Ella Hill Hutch always talking about the new international airport Community Center. His participation demonstrat- (plans) and he was very excited about getting more ed his eagerness to better his community. Restau- contracts for minorities. [James Thigpen] was a rants and hotels ensured that a large sector of the leader and a motivator and many people were en- economy brought continuous business into the couraged by what he had done” (Sun Reporter). area. Thigpen’s interest in education was spurred Born during trying times, Thigpen was able to

168 CHANGEMAKERS James Thigpen was a highly status of African Americans across the entire na- tion” (100 Black Men of the Bay Area, Inc). regarded and successful More than 100 African American businessmen and women attended the Wholesale Food Industry entrepreneur, restaurateur, Workshop sponsored by the Black business Listings/ and local San Francisco Northern California Black Pages according to Cal- ifornia Voice. This was in an eff ort to educate those philanthropist. who were given an unfair start in life. Joe Bell, a close friend of Thigpen, explained that he believed that achieve his goals through perseverance. Despite any “once you get it you must always share with others. prejudices or labels that were placed upon black His biggest thing was helping educate kids where businessmen at the time, he stayed true to his pas- they could have a better start in life” (Examiner). sions and showed the community that he truly had James Thigpen died on June 8th, 1999, in Houston a great message: that black entrepreneurs are no and is still remembered for his passion, thoughtful- diff erent than any other. Fred Jordan, a close friend ness and dedication to his community. His place on of Thigpen’s, remarked “that although many other the Ella Hill Hutch Community Center wall serves African American businessmen are victimized by as a symbol of entrepreneurial and community spir- the media and the establishment for grand achieve- it for all those in the Western Addition. ments, Thigpen managed to rise above it all” (Sun– —Chase Nakayama; additional research by Zachary James Reporter). Using his own restaurants, James Thigpen would generously fund diff erent events to better his Works Cited community. For example, in 1992 Thiggy’s donated a percentage of its gross receipts at the annual Can- California Voice Oakland. 15 Jan 1993. dlelight Again fundraiser to help the San Francisco “James Thigpen.” Sun-Reporter. 10 June 10 1999. Unifi ed School District’s after school programs with [Available at SF Public Library History Center.] SF Chronicle. 14 Oct. 1992. 29 other local restaurants. “Our History.” 100 Black Men of the Bay Area. According to a Sun–Reporter article from 1999, King, John. “2 Forums for Mayoral Candidates- Four S.F. Thigpen was also an economic guru of the Afri- Contenders Sparin Pair of Venues.” SF Chronicle. 25 July can American community and often gave his fel- 1995. low community members fi nancial advice. Thig- Wagner, Venise. “James Thigpen.” SFGate. 23 June 1999. pen was a founding member and chapter president of 100 Black Men of the Bay Area which was an organization whose purpose was “To improve the quality of life in African American communities by improving the educational, economic and social

169 DR. SHIRLEY A. THORNTON IMAGE

COURTESY

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YWCA

R. SHIRLEY A. THORNTON, a woman dedicated to D the pursuit of equal education and opportunity, lives by this life motto: “Let us use the knowledge we have, to gain the knowledge we need, to do the job we Educator Shirley Thornton must for all children” (Thornton). A determined ad- vocate for “excellence in education for all children,” active participant in the fi ght for disease research. Al- Thornton is originally from New Orleans (YWCA). She though her love for the medical fi eld did not necessarily now extends her advocacy into the Bay Area commu- follow her into her career, she continued to be a pas- nity and continues to dedicate her life to the education sionate member and advocate for her community. She and empowerment of younger generations. Thornton is a self-described “scholar, educator, administrator, au- earned a bachelor’s degree in biology from San Francis- thor, and school board member” (Thornton). Thornton co State in 1965 and a doctorate in education from the has a wealth of intellectual qualifi cations, professional University of San Francisco in 1985 (Thornton). experience, and credit in the literary world. With the During her undergraduate years, she began her ca- publishing of her textbook Transforming Schools, Finding reer in education as a Science and Physical Education Success For Students At Risk Through Systemic Change, Thorn- teacher for Aptos Junior High School (Thornton). In ton paved the path for disadvantaged youth and aspiring the ensuing years, she was consistently promoted within changemakers. the educational and administrative system. She was pro- Thornton’s accomplishments within the educa- moted from principal of Balboa High School to Area tion sector have hardly gone unnoticed—in fact, she Superintendent of High School Operations and In- has received over 50 awards for her powerful insights struction Division for the San Francisco Unifi ed School and contributions, not only in local settings, but also in District (Thornton). the greater educational fi eld (Thornton). Dr. Thornton Thornton used her time between her educational aimed to develop the whole person through exposure careers to develop relationships within the San Fran- to educational opportunities, specifi cally for marginal- cisco community by working as an active member of ized groups. Most notably, she developed a program in the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Using the educational sector known as the “California Local her background in biology, she was able to become an Educational Reform Network” which is a technical tool

170 CHANGEMAKERS Dr. Shirley Thornton has helped (“Sausalito Marin City School District Board Meeting Minutes”). Center for Excellence provides a space for transform the education system youth to use art as a way to create opportunity, love, and happiness (“Welcome to The Center for Excellence”). into an equitable and socially Thornton continues her personal mission today by building the foundations for holistic learning and edu- receptive institution. cation. Her main philosophy “stresses that all children can learn, and that high standards and expectations are for improving schools (YWCA). The program was pi- necessary not only for the students but for all involved loted in Sacramento Schools in 1987–89 and worked to in their education” (Thornton). She continues to ac- provide equal opportunities for all students regardless tively post on social media about contemporary issues, of race or income (YWCA). Such an advancement in social events, and how to get involved. In an interview education has helped students across the nation. with College Partnership she explains her passion for After dedicating her life to education as a teacher, her career: “If people go into it thinking it’s a job, then counselor, and administrator, Thornton then worked as there’s a problem.” Her holistic approach to education the Deputy Superintendent of California schools until is a testament to her devotion to making the world a 1995 (Thornton). Programs like these greatly helped Af- better place. rican American youth address the barriers that many face in obtaining higher education. — Kiana Martinez and Draucillia Bala; From 1995 to 1996, Thornton served as Director additional research by Olivia Walker of San Francisco Public Housing. Former San Francisco Mayor Frank Jordan noted: “Thornton is a strong man- Works Cited ager and eff ective leader who is ready to create change and better days for the Housing Authority and for San “Dr. Shirley A. Thornton.” YWCA San Francisco and Francisco” (SF Gate). In 2000, Thornton decided to re- Marin. sign from her role as associate professor at Sacramento “Vitae—Dr. Shirley Thornton.” Shirley Thornton. State University so that she could take the job as Senior “15 Minutes with Dr. Shirley A. Thornton” College Vice President and National Director of the Schools Partnership. Division of the America’s Schools Program (Thornton). Bowman, Catherine Chronicle Staff . “Educator Since 2006, Dr. Thornton has been an Adjunct Favored As Housing Head” SF Chronicle. 14 July 1995. Associate Professor in the California State University, “Sausalito Marin City School District Board Meeting Sacramento’s School of Education, in the Educational Minutes.” Sausalito Marin City School District. 8 Administration and Policy Studies Department (Thorn- Sept. 2015. ton). Additionally, she owns Thornton Educational Ser- “Welcome to The Center for Excellence.” The Center vices which focuses on helping schools provide quality for Excellence: Empowering Students through the Arts. education for at-risk youth. In order to continue providing these resources, Dr. Thornton co-founded the nonprofi t Center For Excel- lence where she continues to act as the Board President

171 IMAGE

BURL A. COURTESY

OF

SF

TOLER CHRONICLE / PAUL

CHINN

URL TOLER was the best. He had everything an / POLARIS “Bathlete should have: he loved the game, he was Burl A.Toler was a star football player, referee, and champion fast and he was the best tackler I’ve ever seen. He of education. would have been a hell of an NFL linebacker,” said Gino Marchetti, defensive end for the The 1951 Dons have been described as “one Colts and former teammate of Toler. of the greatest college teams of all time” by the San Burl Abron Toler, Sr., was born on May 9, 1928 Francisco Chronicle. However, they never had the op- in Memphis, Tennessee, to Arnold W. Toler, Sr., portunity to compete in the Orange Bowl because and Annie King Toler. Attending a segregated they were not invited to play. At the end of the 1951 school during his senior year, he planned to play for season, the Dons defeated the College of the Pacifi c the school football team but could not try out due to 47 –12 in a game that was supposed to determine his arm getting burned by a vat of cooking grease. which team would be invited to the Orange Bowl. Nevertheless, Toler would eventually play football Despite the loss, College of the Pacifi c was invited at the City College of San Francisco (CCSF) when instead because the Dons had two African Ameri- he moved to Oakland with his uncle in 1948. His can players on their football team: Burl Toler and talent was spotted in a gym class by an assistant Ollie Matson. USF teammate Marchetti said that coach and he was immediately asked to play. “when we found out Burl and Ollie weren’t going “Nobody could block Burl because he was so to go, we said . . . we ain’t going.” The team stood strong and quick,” said Walt Jourdan, a former in solidarity and never thought twice about going to CCSF running back. “Ollie Matson [the team’s the Orange Bowl without Toler and Matson. star player] ran three straight dive plays, and Burl Despite not going to the Orange Bowl, Toler stopped him all three times. Then Ollie ran a sweep, was drafted to play for the Browns (later and Burl was there to meet him.” The 1948 CCSF traded to the Chicago Cardinals). However, a knee team fi nished 12–0, winning a national junior col- injury during the college all-star game cut his play- lege title. Once the season was over, Toler and Mat- ing career short. He then became an NFL offi cial son transferred to the University of San Francisco to with the help of NFL commissioner Pete Rozelle. join the legendary 1951 Dons football team. Toler offi ciated for 25 years, from 1965–1989. Some

172 CHANGEMAKERS of these games were crucial, including 2017. According to a USF-sponsored article, Burl XIV in 1980 and the 1982 AFC championship A. Toler was chosen for the honor because he em- game. (He was also selected as an alternate for Su- bodied “USF’s Jesuit Catholic mission, as a student, per Bowl I.) He was, in fact, the African American a member of the 1951 Dons’ ‘undefeated, untied offi cial in any major league professional sport. Un- and uninvited’ football team, then as a beloved fa- fortunately, he was the target for many racial slurs. ther, husband, longtime San Francisco educator Jim Tunney, who worked on the same crew with and well-known NFL linesman offi cial.” With the Toler for 11 years, stated that Toler “[did not] al- renaming of the residence hall, Toler’s legacy is now low racism to interfere in doing his job. He never even further solidifi ed. mentioned it, and if it ever did occur, he just rose Toler was a loving father and husband. He mar- above it.” He was very passionate about the game, ried his wife, Melvia Woolfolk, in 1953. They had six and would not allow anyone to ruin it for him. children, three daughters and three sons, and were While Burl Toler might not have become a star also the proud grandparents of eight grandchildren. in the NFL, he was seen as much more than an ath- Toler’s love for football was passed down to his lete in the Fillmore community. While he offi ciat- son and grandson. Burl Toler, Jr., played college ed football games, he also taught at San Francisco’s football for UC Berkeley, and Burl Toler Jr.’s son, Benjamin Franklin Middle School where he became Burl Toler III, played in the NFL. Toler III gained the fi rst black junior high school vice-principal. He inspiration from his grandfather’s advice: “Do your was eventually promoted to principal. Because of best and the best will be good enough.” his seventeen years of service to the school, it was After Burl A. Toler’s passing in 2009, all of San renamed the Burl A. Toler Campus in 2006. The Francisco came to appreciate his proud legacy. school was named in his honor because of his ded- ication to helping the community. When asked in a — Betsy Jacobo and Grace Jackson 1968 interview why he became an educator he said, “I had planned to play professional football, and I Works Cited was also always interested in education and students. Adams, Bruce. “Cal’s Burl Toler III carries on great family The knee injury led me into education sooner.” tradition.” SFGate, 10 Nov. 2001. Among his many contributions to the larger San “Burl Toler dies at 81; fi rst African American game offi cial in Francisco community, Toler served as San Francis- NFL history.” The Los Angeles Times, 18 Aug. 2009. Fitzgerald, Tom. “Burl Toler, NFL’s fi rst black offi cial, dies.” co Police Department Commissioner from 1978 to SFGate, 18 Aug. 2009. 1986. He also served on the Board of Trustees at Schultz, Mark. “Burl Toler blazed a trail 50 years ago.” the University of San Francisco from 1987 to 1998. Football Zebras, 7 Feb. 2016. As testament to Toler’s excellence as a com- “Toler Hall Dedication.” University of San Francisco, munity leader, the University of San Francisco re- 27 Apr. 2017. Weber, Bruce. “Burl Toler, First Black N.F.L Offi cial, Dies at named Phelan Hall to become Toler Hall in May of 81.” , 20 Aug. 2009

173 IMAGE

REV. COURTESY

OF

TRUE

ARELIOUS HOPE

CHURCH

WALKER OF

GOD

IN

EV. ARELIOUS WALKER, born in small-town At- CHRIST lanta, Texas, in 1931, moved to San Francisco Rev. Arelious Walker has led the True Hope Church of God R in Christ for decades. in 1956 in search of work opportunities. It would be here that the legendary community pastor opened his True Hope Church of God in Christ portunity in life away from drugs and crime. He in the Bayview District on May 12, 1968, with also tended to visit housing projects, street corners, the help of his wife, Hazel Walker. And although and broadcast talks over radio; he used the radio Walker has always demonstrated an immense abil- to promote his work at San Bruno Jail, where he ity to help others and be proactive in aiding im- tended to visit inmates and conduct regular wor- poverished communities, his church is the defi ning ship services. keystone of his career. It started off with only four Homelessness was another issue that True members, but after years of hard work and expan- Hope tended to tackle. As Walker put it: “We’re a sion, they were able to move to a larger location in community oriented church.” He wanted to help, the Bayview on Gilman Avenue in 1978. but also wanted to make help far more available. As Arelious focused on expanding the infl u- He recruited homeless families to share “grits and ence of his church, he made sure to do this by goodies” for others during Christmas. By 1983, he directly impacting the lives of many in his com- helped gather more than 700 landlords and tenants munity. He was especially infl uential in off ering the from across San Francisco to meet at City Hall, at- church as an alternative to drugs and crime in the tempting to bolster the city’s rent control laws. In Bayview, having gathered hundreds of people for 1987, he also helped garner 32,078 signatures to talks of drug rehabilitation, strongly announcing propose a measure that would elect San Francis- that “when you accept Christ, you have no with- co supervisors by district. “This is a mandate from drawal.” Around this time, he created thousands the people of San Francisco... District elections will of pamphlets entitled “What’s Happening in Our hold the supervisors of San Francisco accountable Black Neighborhoods” that served as a piece of to the people.” These are prime examples of the motivation literature for those seeking a new op- community activism that made Arelious such a

174 CHANGEMAKERS special pastor. and led the True Hope Church for over 50 years In 1994, Walker held an Open Forum about alongside his wife Hazel and his fi ve children. Pas- the problem of incarceration with fellow Change- tor Walker has continued to passionately work to maker Reverend Amos Brown. He led one of the bring jobs, housing, needed services, and equity to most eff ective jail ministries in the nation and aid- southeast San Francisco. He also continues as the ed the lives of countless citizens. His Caring and Chair of the Board of Directors for the Bayview Restoration Home helped ex-off enders make their Hunters Point, a representative of the Tabernacle transition from prison into the real-world. He was Community Development Corporation, and lead- quick to give attention to the vast diff erence in in- er of Bayview Hope Housing. His immeasurable carceration between neighborhoods like Pacifi c commitment to community activism has cemented Heights and the Tenderloin or Bayview. He put this Walker’s legacy as a Changemaker, with his face to same eff ort toward job growth, such as in the Home be among so many others who’ve made a diff er- Depot debate of 2002. Certain community offi cials ence on the Inspiration Murals. argued its introduction would diminish local busi- ness, but Walker saw it as an opportunity for more —Marcelo Swoff ord than 200 jobs to surge into the community: “This isn’t just about the jobs,” he said, “This is about Works Cited a neighborhood’s right of self-determination. It’s about respect.” This same year, after membership Ford, Dave. “Helping Home Buyers Get a Foot in the signifi cantly grew, the church was able to expand Door.” SF Chronicle. 9 May 2003. True Hope Church of God in Christ. 2019. by 30,000 square feet. Hsu, Evelyn. “Packed Hearing on Rent Control.” The True Hope Church was chosen as the SF Chronicle. 27 Oct. 1983. site for the new Bayview Hope Housing Project Lomax, Almena. “True Hope Pastor Who Reforms in 2003, as Walker’s leadership for more than 35 Wrongdoers.” SF Examiner. 23 Mar. 1974. years forwarding spiritual solace, day care, sub- Pereira, Joseph. “‘Voice for the Voiceless’ in SF.” stance abuse rehabilitation, and job skills training SF Chronicle. 16 May 1983. did not go unnoticed. Mayor Willie Brown, along Pogash, Carol. “Once Often in Jail, Now Often in with a handful of others, worked alongside Walker Church.” SF Examiner. 10 Aug. 1973. in creating this groundbreaking low-income hous- Roberts, Jerry and J.H. Doyle. “SF District Election ing complex on the parking lot of True Hope. Any Petitions Turned In.” SF Chronicle. 23 Jul. 1987. “The Black Church Should Get its Due.” SF Chronicle. extra revenue the church garnered, Walker said, 9 Feb. 1994. would go towards paying off the church’s mort- Garofoli, Joe. “Neighborhoods Divided over Home gage, funding a new computer learning center, and Depot Plan.” SF Chronicle. 29 Apr. 2002. a neighborhood association to keep the area clean. Wood, Jim. “It’s True Hope: SF Church Makes Plans Arelious Walker has now lived in the Bayview to Help the Homeless.” SF Chronicle. 19 Dec. 1982.

175 IMAGE

DORIS COURTESY

OF

WARD SF

GATE / FREDERIC

LARSON

ORIS MARGARET WARD was born in Chicago / Don January 27, 1932, to Robbie Floyd and POLARIS Jesse Keys. She was raised by her grandparents Jo- seph and Julia Floyd, who lived in Gary, Indiana, and managed a family owned grocery store. From Doris Ward at City Hall. kindergarten through 12th grade, Ward attended Frable School where she was an active member of the debate team. She was also nominated the diana before deciding to move to California where Queen of the Bud Billiken Parade, an event that has in 1968, she attended San Francisco State Univer- been hosted annually in Chicago since 1929 and is sity. After receiving her PhD in education at SFSU, the largest African-American parade in the United Ward began her political career. She ran a success- States. During her youth, Ward was very active in ful campaign in 1972 and was appointed as a trustee the burgeoning civil rights movement and partic- for the San Francisco Community College District. ipated in sit-ins at bars. In 1980, Ward explained Ward also took on several more positions includ- to the San Francisco Examiner that “Even though I ing County Supervisor in 1979, President of the recognized from a very early age what racism was, Board of Supervisors in 1990, and the San Fran- I didn’t let that daunt me. When they closed one cisco County Assessor-Recorder in 1996. While on door, I opened another.” This statement highlights the Board of Supervisors she wrote rent control leg- the resilience that Ward carried throughout her life. islation, worked for better oversight for police and Upon graduating from high school, Doris Ward pushed for more aff ordable housing. In 2000, she attended Indiana University and earned both her also became a delegate for the Democratic National Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in education. During Convention as a representative for California before this time, she continued to further her lifelong battle she retired in 2006. against social injustice at the Indianapolis NAACP, Ward centered her political career around social where she opposed the hateful rhetoric of the Ku justice and equity for all. “The accomplishments that Klux Klan. Ward spent ten years as a teacher in In- brought her the most included her sponsorship

176 CHANGEMAKERS woman mayor, has been inspired by Ward since Doris Ward remained meeting her in high school. Breed had even worked committed to social justice for Ward on a campaign and praised her for her positive attitude, spirit, and kind nature. while serving as the President Doris Ward passed away at the age of eighty- of the Board of Supervisors six in her San Francisco home on Saturday April 15, 2018. Rev. Amos Brown, a prominent pastor and the San Francisco and civil rights activist in San Francisco, had kind words to say about Ward, fondly praising “her re- County Assessor. spect for education and hard work, and her respect for the dignity and worth of all people--from the or co-sponsorship of legislation governing minority high and mighty to the drunk on the corner.” Rev- business set-asides, rent control mandates for San erend Brown explained that “Whenever there was Francisco apartment vacancies, and the divestiture a controversy and people were running around in of investments in apartheid South Africa.” Ward circles, she would always raise the piercing ques- dedicated herself to fi ghting for the rights of un- tion, ‘What are you doing to deal with this mat- derrepresented and marginalized people on both a ter?’ She was a doer.” local and global scale. She never shied away from taking action on issues that mattered and dedicated —Teresa Fishman and Grace Jackson herself to the promotion of legislation that would improve the lives of others. Ward was also “a Work Cited founding member of the San Francisco chapter of 100 Black Women Inc., and Black Women Stirring “The Honorable Doris Ward.” The HistoryMakers. the Waters. She led the African American Action 2 May 2017. Network and served as Board Vice President of the Fagan, Kevin and Sarah Ravani. “Doris Ward, fi rst Black Coalition on AIDS, which became the Rafi ki African American to lead SF Board of Supervisors, Coalition for Health and Wellness.” dies at 86.” SF Gate. 18 April 2018. Ward was active in many social and political or- ganizations around the Bay Area and she inspired others to engage in politics that were focused on equality and justice. Former Mayor Mark Farrell described Ward as a “fearless political leader” who possessed a “trailblazing presence whose courage and resolve helped inspire countless others to fol- low in her footsteps.” Current San Francisco May- or London Breed, the city’s fi rst African-American

177 ELOISE IMAGE

COURTESY WESTBROOK

OF

SF

CALL

LOISE WESTBROOK was born in 1915 in Waco, ETexas. She moved to the Bay Area twelve years before she earned her position as President of the Bayview–Hunters Point committee. In 1955, she Eloise Westbrook in 1968 speaking at a protest in support of was part of the staff of the Hunters Point pover- students. ty board. She was a mother, a grandmother to 15 children, and an active advocate for the San Fran- cisco community. Community members have de- Westbrook never accepted no for an answer scribed her as “one of the most vocal advocates for and Hunters Point’s residents were desperate for the betterment of conditions for families living in change. In 1970, the individuals from the Hous- the dilapidated warehouses at Hunters Point” (Bay- ing Committee had traveled a long way to fi ght for view Footprints). Westbrook was a Bayview–Hunters housing and the future of Hunters Point. HUD Point pioneer and was described as “an outspoken, offi cials refused to negotiate with Hunters Point feisty, fearless woman, afraid of no one, no mat- delegates which caused extreme levels of stress for ter their status in life or power” (Metcalfe). West- Westbrook. Eloise Westbrook fought for the people brook served as the head of the Hunters Point Joint until she physically couldn’t anymore. The levels of Housing Committee and was sworn in on June 9, stress led Eloise Westbrook, Chairman of the Joint 1968, as only the second woman to take on this House Committee at that time, to have a stroke be- role. Not knowing that they would receive nega- fore fainting. tive comments, the Joint Housing Committee fl ew Westbrook led a delegation in 1973 under out to Washington, D.C. to meet with the federal Mayor Alioto to get federal funding to build houses housing offi cials to fi x the housing problem in San in Bayview Hunters Point. She was recognized as Francisco. Eloise Westbrook was tired of being dis- a woman who spoke her mind and was known as respected by the Housing of Urban Development’s the voice of the community since 1980. She was head and so she placed her foot on his chair so that the strongest tenants’ advocate on the commission. he had no place to sit. Her purpose was not only to build aff ordable hous-

178 CHANGEMAKERS Eloise Westbrook was an mater could establish a College of Ethnic Studies. Eloise Westbrook will forever be a legend to the advocate for those who were San Francisco and Hunters Point community. She was an advocate for those who were in need of food, in need of food, shelter, jobs, shelter, jobs, and accessible health care. She was and accessible health care. a voice for those oppressed in the city. Westbrook passed away on September 13, 2011 at 96 years ing with the redevelopment agency, but to build a old (Metcalfe). In her memory, many health facili- better image for the neighborhood and to address ties carry her name including the Westbrook Plaza the issue of social isolation that residents encoun- Health Center and Housing Complex (Metcalfe). tered within the city. Westbrook and her commit- Mayor Willie Brown spoke of Eloise Westbrook at tee, who were known as “the big fi ve,” hired their her funeral, saying, “She used to scare me! She was own architects, their own contractors, and created a pure, unadulterated sister!” (Metcalfe). jobs for those in the construction fi eld. Westbrook wanted more access to aff ordable housing and had —Ashley Cruz and Meisy Tunay a long-term plan to provide community members Works Cited with jobs. She claimed, “I don’t think there’s an- other urban renewal that works the way Hunters Anders, Corrie. “From Picket to President of Board.” Point works” (SFSU). The Bayview-Hunters Point Brekke, Dan, Alex Cherian and Adam Grossberg. community had always been involved in the de- “From the Archive: Bayview-Hunters Point Backs cision making process for the new housing devel- SF State Strike, December 1968.” 10 February opment program. Westbrook was known for her 2015. KQED. housing advocacy passion. It was no surprise when “Eloise Westbrook.” Bayview Footprints, 4 Mar. 2014 she decided to picket in front of the SF Housing “Eloise Westbrook on the New Look for Hunters Authority (Anders). Point.” SF Bay Area Television Archive, 28 Oct. 2013. Eloise Westbrook attended San Francisco State Johanesen, Harry. “Guaranteed Paid Urged for Poor.” University where she showed her support for the 20 November 1966. SF Chronicle. San Francisco State Strike. In a speech, Westbrook Metcalfe, Rochelle. “I Heard That: A San Francisco stated, “I only have but one life to give children, Pioneer Passes ...” Beyond Chron, 28 Sept. 2011. when I die I’m dead. And you’d better believe it. Westbrook, Eloise. 1969. 1969 Calendar. But I’m dying for the rights of people” (Bayview San Francisco: Hunters Point Joint Housing Footprints). Westbrook always fought for justice. Committee and San Francisco Redevelopment At San Francisco State University, she publicly an- Agency. nounced her support for the Black Student Union and Third World Liberation Front so that her alma

179 EARL IMAGE

WHITE COURTESY

OF

JOSEF

NORRIS

IVIL RIGHTS ACTIVIST and entrepreneur Earl CH. White was born in the small city of Musk- ogee, Oklahoma, in 1934 to parents Albert Earl White and Agatha White. Around the age of Earl White as depicted on the Inspiration Murals. ten, White moved to San Francisco. He received a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of San Francisco in 1963 and Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART), San Francisco continued his higher education at Pepperdine General Hospital, and Bechtel Corporation. These University, earning a master’s degree in business endeavors prioritized engineering, construction, administration in 1975. He would later go on to and project management goals. In 1989, White be- acquire a doctorate from Washington Internation- came the Chief Administrative Offi cer and princi- al University in 1981. White was one of the most pal of Systems Support Technologies—a position prominent leaders in the African American busi- he served in for eleven years. ness community, helping many people through his White immersed himself in the San Francisco entrepreneurial endeavors. community, fi nding any way he could to positive- Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, White was ly impact people’s lives. He led the United States the director of the San Francisco Model Cities Black Chamber of Commerce from 1981 to 1985, Program, a series of programs designed to help representing and promoting African American those living in poverty. As director, he oversaw and business owners in the Bay Area. In 1995, White assessed 21 projects that were worth $7.5 million. assumed the responsibilities of President of the Also in 1971, White founded E.H. White, Inc., a San Francisco Black Chamber of Commerce (SF- fi nancial consulting fi rm. The company created BCC). databases for San Francisco’s Purchasing Depart- One of the primary tasks that White faced as ment and Human Rights Commission, which doc- a Republican President of the Black Chamber of umented women and minority involvement in busi- Commerce was his confl ict with California Gover- ness enterprises. The company created contracts nor . Wilson, in an eff ort to advance his for the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission, Republican political agenda in a Democratically

180 CHANGEMAKERS Earl White served as ernment said, “[Earl White] really wanted to see African Americans empowered—he wanted us to President of the San Francisco be more involved in the economy. He volunteered many long hours of his time to work for economic Black Chamber of Commerce. empowerment. Earl was a leader that will be sorely missed in the community.” dominant state, was trying to garner attention from As Harry Alford, President and Chief Exec- Republican politicians in other states; in order to utive Offi cer of the National Black Chamber of accomplish this, he continued to abolish race- and Commerce in Washington, D.C., expressed: “San gender-based affi rmative action policies at the Uni- Francisco has lost a great advocate. We have truly versity of California at Berkeley. White responded lost a great leader in the African American busi- to this by threatening to abandon the GOP, calling ness community. It’s sad. He had been working Wilson’s actions a disgrace to Bay Area politics. on [computer technology] long before anyone The SFBCC, under White’s leadership, was knew about the Internet. For 30 years, he had able to stir up the political and business worlds been involved in technology issues—all the way in the city. Wells Fargo, in 1998, initiated $1 bil- back when IBM had those big mainframes . . . loan program nationwide to aid the success Earl was a trooper.” This eloquent expression of of small African American businesses. The SFB- Earl White’s impact demonstrates his legacy as a CC led the initiative over a span of 12 years and Changemaker. the Bay Area received a massive portion of these funds, nearly 10% of the total holdings, due to —Luigi Aieta, Althea Pyle, and Marcelo Swoff ord their eff orts. In the year 1999, the National Mi- Works Cited nority Supplier Development Council received a citywide proposal changing the basis for minori- Johnson, Jason. “Protest Over Plans to Ease Rules on ty-led basis criterion; for a business to be consid- Minority Contracts.” SF Chronicle. 27 Nov. 1999. ered minority-owned, it would need to only be run Johnson, Jason. “Wells Establishes $1 Billion Loan by 30% minority workers rather than the usual Program.” SF Chronicle. 20 Jun. 1998. 51%. However, White argued that it was part of Ferriss, Susan. “GOP Driving Away Minority the larger plan to try and destroy affi rmative ac- Supporters.” SF Chronicle. 30 July 1995. tion in city politics. In May of 2000, Earl H. White “S.F. Business, Civic Leader Earl H. White.” passed away after a battle with colon cancer at the SFGate. 18 May 2000 age of 66, leaving behind an extensive legacy in Zamora, Jim Herron. “Earl H. White Worked for the city of San Francisco. Blacks’ Prosperity.” SFGate, 15 May 2000. As Dr. Caesar Churchwell, President of Black Leadership Forum San Franciscans for Better Gov-

181

EUGENE IMAGE

COURTESY

E WHITE

. OF

LYNNETTE

A EVOLUTIONARY artist Eugene E. White was not . WHITE Rafraid to depict the truth regarding race. His work unabashedly celebrates Black culture and art while faithfully encapsulating Black history and Eugene E. White was an internationally celebrated artist. Black lives. White’s legacy as a creative thinker cap- tivates and inspires people not only in San Francis- co but also all over the United States and the world. White ventured to San Francisco, where he opened Eugene E. White was born in Ozan, Arkansas, the very fi rst black-owned gallery in the city in 1962. on March 29, 1933, to James and Maggie White. He In 1963, White suff ered a life-threatening car acci- spent his younger years developing his artistic tal- dent. Throughout his hospital stay, loved ones con- ents in an era where Jim Crow laws shaped the way stantly surrounded and supported him. White credits he lived. As a young boy, White spent much of his his loved ones as the major reason for his survival. childhood doing agricultural work. White’s rigorous After his time in the hospital, White began to upbringing played a huge role in his creative focus. take inspiration for his art from his childhood. He In an interview with the University of San Fran- was drawn back to the plight, struggle, defi ance, and cisco’s Martín-Baró Scholars, White told an anec- beauty of being black in America. In 1964 he was dote about how he would cleverly maneuver his way invited by Bulart to select works to be displayed in through his school subjects. He explained, “I used the Hall of Flowers in Golden Gate Park. to bargain in school. I would look for people who Ever since his debut, White has earned nu- were good in math or English and ask them to do merous accolades and signifi cant recognition for my homework for me. If they said yes, I would draw his work. White’s art gave the African American them pretty pictures or write their names in calligra- community validation and resolve. In all his work, phy.” White showed an affi nity for art since a young White was able to portray the full range of black age but never fully realized it until later in his life. existence, from violence to poverty to black excel- In the 1950s, Eugene moved to Detroit and lence. In 1967 White became the fi rst black visu- worked for Cadillac briefl y as a designer. In 1958, al artist to display his work at the Monterey Jazz

182 CHANGEMAKERS Mayor Ed Lee proclaimed In recognition of his many artistic contributions and his dedication to his community for over 50 July 11, 2013, to be years, the San Francisco Art Appreciation Society honored White on July 11, 2013, and Mayor Ed Lee Eugene E. White Day proclaimed that day to be Eugene E. White Day in in San Francisco. the city of San Francisco. An outstanding Citizen Film documentary Festival. In the 1970s his art was exhibited in the about White’s work and life, To See One’s Self, direct- Chicago Black Expo, the Congress of African Peo- ed by Sophie Constantinou, was released in 2017. ple, and the fi rst Black Art Festival, among many Eugene E. White passed away on February others. 8, 2019. His life was celebrated by hundreds of White’s infl uence led him to be asked to speak at mourners at Third Baptist Church, with poignant Howard, Yale, Stanford, Notre Dame, and Harvard, remarks made by Mayor London Breed and Rev. among other universities. His infl uence also extends Dr. Amos C. Brown. The Board of Supervisors beyond the U.S. borders: he was given the opportu- formally celebrated White’s life at its March 5, nity to exhibit and speak about his art at FESTAC, 2019 Board meeting. an international art festival in Lagos, Nigeria. White is survived by his wife and community Locally, White’s murals have graced the walls activist, Lynnette White; their daughter Tracye of the Third Baptist Church, the Ingleside Presby- Taylor; grandchildren Grandville Taylor IV, Nata- terian Church, and the Ella Hill Hutch Community sha Taylor, Nykoloe Taylor, Trevion Speed, Jamar- Center. His “Juneteenth” mural, commissioned by ion Speed, and Jamarie Speed; and great grand- Mayor Brown, depicts the migrations of African son, Grandville Taylor, V. Americans from the south. A portrait of White can also be found on the Buchanan Mall as well. — Teresa Fishman, Yaqub Elmi, Kimberly McAllister, Always a devoted parent, he was awarded the Ian Duke, Matt Chiodo, and Mei Lin Father of Year Award by KDIA radio in 1976. From 1975–2012, White published a beautiful Works Cited quarterly magazine called Kujiona (meaning “to see oneself ” in Swahili). Unfortunately, during this pe- “Artist Eugene E. White to Be Honored by SF Appreciation riod, in the 1980s, White’s studio suff ered a major Society.” San Francisco Bay View. 4 July 2013. “Eugene E. White, Artist.” 2015. African American Registry. fi re, destroying more than 50 works of art, but the Interview with Martín-Baró Scholars. University of San fi re strengthened his resolve to paint even more. Francisco. 22 Sept. 2017. Just after ending his print run of Kujiona, White To See One’s Self, Citizen Film. Sophie Constantinou (Director), turned his attention toward writing his autobiogra- Tamara Walker (Producer). 2017. White, Lynnette. “Beloved Artist Eugene E. White Passes.” phy, Jabo’s Boy—Now His Manchild, which was pub- San Francisco Bay View. 20 Feb. 2019. lished in 2004.

183 REV.

CECIL IMAGE

COURTESY WILLIAMS

OF

RED

CARPET ECIL WILLIAMS is an activist and pastor

Cwhose work positively impacted the Tenderloin BAY

and the City of San Francisco. He pastored for de- AREA cades at the celebrated Glide Memorial Church on the corner of Ellis and Taylor. Rev. Williams was re- sponsible not only for expanding his church, but for Reverend Cecil Williams has directed Glide Memorial Church using it as a catalyst for change. Today, Glide oper- since 1963. ates numerous programs aimed at connecting and giving back to the community. One of their cur- my mother designated me a minister.” At the age rent programs, Serve a Meal, recruits volunteers to of 12, he decided to take a year off of school and serve 2,000 free meals a day to those in need. Other instead focus on strengthening the skills he needed programs run by Glide include HIV/Hepatitis C to work in Methodist ministry. Williams graduat- services and testing, a free legal clinic, a childcare ed in 1955 from the Perkins School of Theology center, and the Glide Walk-In Center which pro- at Southern Methodist University, one of the fi rst vides assistance to clients in obtaining shelter and African Americans to graduate from the university. other critical needs (Glide). In 1963, the Bishop of his church appointed him Williams was born on September 22, 1929, in as pastor at Glide Memorial Church. At the time San Angelo, Texas. From a young age he felt drawn of his arrival, the all-white congregation was com- to the ministries. According to an interview done by prised of a mere thirty-fi ve members. the National Public Radio, at the age of two Wil- Williams is known for being radical and going liams’ mother told him that she knew he was to be a against the grain. Many of his values are based on pastor and even gave him the nickname “Rev” (Na- the principles of Liberation Theology which focus- tional Public Radio). es on empowering those facing oppression. Its core Williams said in a personal interview, “I wanted principles are empowerment, unconditional love, to certainly be a spokesperson for the people in our and acceptance. These principles are at the heart communities. But, before I even got to that point, of Williams’ work with Glide and other infl uential

184 CHANGEMAKERS activists such as Martin Luther King, Jr. I had people that were with me, who walked with Williams once said, “One reason people stand me, stood with me, and would not let me do this by up and begin to say ‘no longer,’ is that they get an- myself.” His biggest supporter was his wife, Janice gry and put out. When you disenfranchise people, Mirikitani, a sensei, poet, and activist. Her parents then you also begin to understand those people are were put in Japanese internment camps when she going to come back again. And when they come was just a baby. Her perspective on race and social back, they are going to come back quite diff erent justice created an understanding within their rela- from what they left. And that’s the way a revolution tionship. During their interview with NPR, Mirik- starts.” Rev. Williams emphasized that revolutions itani recounts that when she fi rst met Williams she do not take a single form but instead start with peo- saw him inviting members of the community into ple who are “dissatisfi ed” and who “are unable to the church who were looked down upon. From live life fully.” This disturbance is important in the then on, Mirikitani supported his goal of bringing success of a revolution and making change in our all members of the community together. world. Rev. Williams is universally known for his During a personal interview, Williams discussed warm heart. He once stated, “I don’t love people his early days as a new pastor and how experiences to death, I love people to life.” His words as a pas- with his new congregation shaped the church and tor are powerful and it is easy to see why he is able its ideals. Williams knew that those who attended his to initiate positive change everywhere he goes. Wil- church were there because they were missing some- liams has always believed in the future of revolution thing in their lives. One Sunday during his sermon, among the youth. He believes that as long as there is he hung a small mirror around his neck and said inequality there will be the potential for change. Rev. to his small congregation, “I want you to know that Williams is a revolutionary legend who continues to I’m mirroring your life so I can catch up with you. make change in the city of San Francisco and the You won’t have to live this way any longer. You don’t larger global community. have to go through these trials and tribulations.” This was an example of his unconditional love and — Erica Mitchell; additional research by acceptance. He refused to “stand idly by” and decid- Kristen Williams and Isabel Tayag ed that change needed to occur in his community. Williams also became known for inviting Works Cited homeless people and people of the LGBTQ com- munity into his church. It perplexed many people “The Controversial, Yet Popular, Reverend Cecil Williams.” NPR, 5 Apr. 2013. that a pastor would openly support same-sex mar- “Reverend Cecil Williams.” Personal interview. riage. However there were many fellow community Mitchell, Erica, 18 May 2016. members who supported his controversial decision. “Volunteer with Glide.” www.glide.org/serveameal. The Reverend explained, “I had a support system.

185 LIEUTENANT

HENRY IMAGE

COURTESY

WILLIAMS OF

JOSEF

NORRIS S A CIVIL RIGHTS ACTIVIST and founder of a ma- Ajority African American police organization, Henry Williams was a key motivator in improving Henry Williams as depicted on the Inspiration Mural. relations between the San Francisco Police Depart- ment and black citizens. Born in 1927, Williams’ and by 1968, had co-founded a primarily black path to becoming a police offi cer and changemaker organization within the police department called began in his youth (Copeland). He was educated at Offi cers for Justice (Copeland). This cohort of of- George Washington High School and after gradua- fi cers worked to address “the issues of racism and tion he continued on to San Francisco Community lack of African American promotions [within the College (Copeland). According to Williams, his fi rst police system]” and, with determined aspirations direct encounter with racism began when he enlisted for social change, Williams “was the fi rst president in the Marines during World War II. He repeatedly of the organization, which was replicated in other observed racism and systematic oppression towards areas across the country” (Copeland). Throughout black people, but made every eff ort to translate this his three decades of committed service, he received experience into improving race relations. After he numerous awards, including a certifi cate he earned fi nished his military service, Williams returned to in 1967 for “meritorious conduct for his bravery in San Francisco where he witnessed white police of- the line of duty” (Copeland). fi cers mistreating and targeting black people (Cope- As remarkable as his awards were, Williams’ land). This was his motivation for becoming a police legacy survived through his assertive engagement offi cer himself, and in 1952 he integrated himself with the police department and his brave attitude into the San Francisco Police Department to pro- that helped shape a progressive future. As of 2018, mote the voice of the oppressed (Copeland). gun violence and systematic racism are plaguing Henry Williams was the fi rst black police of- our current political climate. The media coverage fi cer to be promoted beyond patrol offi cer in the of these issues has spiked and the conversation is city of San Francisco (Copeland). A long overdue moving to involve everyone. It can be said that achievement, this was one of the many landmarks Williams is an underrated hero who initiated a dis- left in Williams’ wake. He served as a lieutenant ruption in the norm to achieve a greater good for

186 CHANGEMAKERS Lieutenant Henry Williams mounting instances of (Miller 2). Within his community, Henry Williams observed co-founded the Offi cers the destructive nature of this dynamic and offi - cially co-founded Offi cers for Justice. Williams be- for Justice within the San lieved that the problem was rooted within the sys- Francisco Police Department. tem itself. Through Offi cers for Justice, Williams’ aim was to address the racism within the police force and relations between white offi cers and the the people. In turn, he inspired current generations black community. to participate in politics and challenge racial con- Williams carved a path and molded a future structs. His legacy stands for confronting and re- for many minority offi cers. He was able to work forming systems of segregation. He actively spoke within a system and strive for the betterment of out against police offi cers using their fi rearms free- police–civilian relations. Henry Williams’ place on ly in the line of duty. When he retired, Williams the Inspirations mural was earned through his ini- was proud to be able to say that he never used his tiative, courage, and a peaceful approach. His leg- guns in all his years of service and even dumped acy still lives on within the organization he founded them into the ocean (Copeland). and in the battle against police brutality in the city. Williams was a police offi cer during the post- war era, a time when police brutality was heavily —Olivia Walker and Sydney Summers–Knight affl icting black communities like the Fillmore and Hunters Point. Civil rights leaders in organizations Works Cited like the NAACP and the CFCU pushed local gov- ernment to address relations between police forces Copeland, Carolyn. “Henry Williams—Civil Rights and minority groups. Black leaders in local com- Activist, S.F. Cop.” SFGate. 31 July 2011. munities lobbied the city, requesting that there be Crowe, Daniel. Prophets of Rage: The Black Freedom Struggle in San Francisco; 1945-1969. 112–13. New York: more African American representation in the police Garland, 2000. force to increase transparency between the parties, Miller, Paul T. The Interplay of Housing, Employment and especially with struggling African American youth. Civil Rights in the Experience of San Francisco’s African So in 1956, two African American offi cers, Henry AmericanCommunity, 1945–1975. 213. 2009. Williams and Jon Finney, were put into the Juvenile Miller, Paul T. The Postwar Struggle for Civil Rights: Division of San Francisco Police Department. African Americans in San Francisco,1945–1975. 94. New York: Routledge, 2010. During that turbulent time, the Fillmore was a hub for African American businesses and enter- tainment and Hunters Point, conversely, was large- ly ignored by the rest of the city. Unemployment and poverty rates were high in correlation with the

187 LT. COLONEL

THEODORE IMAGE

COURTESY

A WILSON

. OF

SF

GATE

N 1942, Lieutenant Colonel Theodore A. Wil- Ison was drafted into the United States Air Force, where he began a decorated career as a Tuskegee Lt. Colonel was a Tuskegee Airman. Airman. Through his courage and bravery, he de- fi ed the stigma of a black presence in the armed Wilson during an interview, “we had 16 hour days, I forces. Wilson’s 26 years of active duty, through fl ew 130 fl ying hours.” World War II and the , is a unique and At the beginning of his deployment, Wilson inspiring story that stands as a historic beacon of arrived in Cercola, Italy where he was stationed as black excellence in the midst of the outrageous cir- a replacement pilot in the 99th squadron. For one cumstances of war and domestic injustice. Wilson’s mission, he was sent north along the Italian coast- scholastic pursuits, involvement with the fi nance in- line to dive bomb. During the fl ight, Wilson fi red dustry, and over six-decade love for his wife, Doris his machine gun and dropped the 1,000 lb bomb, Wilson, exemplify his talent and devoted spirit. while shots were fi red into his engine, causing the Wilson was born in Gloucester, Virginia, in 1920 propeller to stop and start to windmill. Smoke en- and served the United States Air Force from 1942 tered the cockpit, leaving Wilson unable to read the through 1944. He was stationed as an active duty gauges, allotting him one choice: jump. At 2,500 pilot in the European Theater. Wilson completed feet in the air, and 25 miles from ally shores, Wilson 60 missions during his deployment in Italy where he ejected himself from the plane remembering: “be- contributed to the extensive success of The Tuske- tween the wing and the tail was only eight feet, so gee Airmen, who were a group of all African-Amer- I had to jump from the wing and hope I wouldn’t ican aviators and the only fi ghter group to have a hit the tail.” perfect record protecting the bombers. For context, Wilson escaped fi re from the Germans by para- white U.S. military pilots were not permitted to fl y chuting into an allies’ camp and remembers fi ghting more than 52 missions, while African-American pi- with his operations offi cer because he wanted to rest lots often served more since they had less replace- the next day instead of fl ying. During an interview, ments. “The nine months was no bed of roses,” said Wilson jokingly said, “You know sometimes, when

188 CHANGEMAKERS I was fl ying airplanes, I thought about my wife and million dollars and 314 employees. He received an I thought she’s smart- she should be over here fl y- Accommodation Medal for outstanding service and ing every other day and letting me rest.” Starting payment alongside a bronze star for outstanding the next day, Wilson fl ew 46 more missions. Wilson achievement. became a 2nd Lieutenant in his fi rst 12 months of Wilson retired as a decorated veteran and went service, a 1st Lieutenant 13 months after, and came off to college. He received his bachelor’s degree in back to the United States as a captain in 1945. sociology from Virginia Union University where At the beginning of America’s involvement in he also became a fi nance offi cer and moved on to World War II, received a grant be assistant professor of the ROTC, eventually be- to train the fi rst black aviators. This worked towards coming the leading professor for the entire program. developing a class of 1,000 volunteers in America’s Wilson went back to school before working at Bank fi rst black military airmen unit. The 332nd Fight- of America for 16 years. He started as a landing of- er Group consisted of the 99th squadron, 100th fi cer, then moved to a training offi cer, and ended his squadron, 301st squadron and 302nd squadron. career as Assistant Vice President in Contributions. The men were trained as pilots, navigators, or bom- Wilson met his wife Doris Wilson in college in bardiers. According to the Tuskegee University Air Virginia, where she received a degree in mathemat- Force Historical Research Agency, the Airmen of ics. Theodore and Doris had two children and re- the 332nd had the highest success rates in escort- ceived their master’s degrees in business together. ing bombers across enemy borders in World War II. In retrospect, Wilson says, “I am proud to look They stood unmatched by any other fi ghter group. back on my life and accomplishments as most Tus- The 99th squadron, where Lt. Col. Theodore A. kegee Airmen are.” Wilson’s work as a pilot and Wilson fl ew, was awarded two Presidential Unit Ci- devoted citizen will be remembered throughout his- tations between the years of 1943 and 1945, both tory and will be treasured in the hearts of Wilson’s for providing exceptional tactical air support and family, friends, and many others. aerial support for the 12th Air Force in Italy. Over- all, the courageous work performed by Lt. Colonel —Annelise Suleiman and Hannah Shepherd Wilson stands as historically signifi cant in the fi ght towards racial integration in America because it Works Cited boldly proved wrong all doubts held against black citizens fi ghting in the American armed forces. Costantinou, Marianne, “Theodore Wilson– Tuskegee Airman.” SF Gate, 18 March 2006. Wilson also served in Korea from 1950 to 1952. Squatriglia, Chuck. “The Bay Area Farewells of During his deployment, Wilson fl ew 42 missions, 2006.” SF Gate, 31 December 2006. became a Major in Korea in 1952, and became “Tuskegee Airmen Facts” Tuskegee University, 2017. Lieutenant a Colonel in 1961. He also worked as a Chief Accounting and Finance Offi cer during his time overseas. Wilson was accountable for over two

189 ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

This project was the result of an enormous collaborative effort. In addition to everyone named in the intro- ductory pages and in many of the biographies, we’d also like to gratefully acknowledge the support, counsel, and connections we received from the following people and entities:

Mayor London Breed, Mayor Willie L. Brown Jr. and the Willie L. Brown Jr., Institute on Politics and Public Ser- vice, Vallie Brown, Belva Davis, Sherri Young, Adrian Owens, Rebecca Morrow King, David S. Johnson, Wendy Nelder, Dr. Joe Marshall, Charles Austin, Rev. Dr. Amos C. Brown, Rev. Arnold Townsend, Devi Zinzuvadia, Claude T. Everhart, Rudy Smith, Susan Brissenden-Smith, Marcus Sanders, Karen Bell Francois, Naomi Kelly, Marci Eppinger, Rodney Chin, Lee Housekeeper, University of California at Berkeley Bancroft Library, Online Archive of California, San Francisco Arts Commission, San Francisco Human Rights Commission, Vanessa Erlichson (Polaris Images), Joaquin Cabello, Laura Luster, Thomas Robert Simpson, Amelia Ashley-Ward, Shawna Sherman, San Francisco Fire Department, San Francisco Police Department, San Francisco Mayor’s Offi ce, San Francisco Unifi ed School District, YMCA, YWCA, Ebony Magazine, University of Rochester, Mark Buell, LA Jones Media, Legal Pad, San Francisco Bay View, The Sun-Reporter, SF Gate, San Francisco Chronicle, San Francisco Call, SF Progress, Beyond Chron, San Francisco Christian Center, American Civil Liberties Union, The New Bayview, Musicians Local No. 6, Local 261, Lori Norr, James Barrios (BR Printers), Rev. James McCray Jr., Helen Stratten, Scarlet Gordon, Burl Toler, Jr., Anna Simon, Timothy Simon, Dr. Shirley Thornton, KQED, KPOO, KALW, Equal Justice Society, Glide Memorial Church, Providence Baptist Church, Third Baptist Church of San Francisco, True Hope Church of God in Christ, Ingleside Presbyterian Church, Red Carpet Bay Area, Amy Whitcomb, David Carrington Miree, My Brother’s and Sister’s Keeper San Francisco (MBSK), Citizen Film, Marisa Williams, Danielle Banks, Derick Brown, Sam Jordan’s Bar and Grill, Rahman Jamaal

At the University of San Francisco we are grateful for assistance and support from:

Donald E. Heller, Paul J. Fitzgerald, S.J., Marcelo Camperi, Mary Wardell-Ghirarduzzi, Pamela Balls Organista, Eileen Fung, Jeffery Paris, James Lance Taylor, Alan Ziajka, Torry Brouillard-Bruce, Kara Knafelc, Tyrone Cannon, Candice Harrison, Ted Matula, Cathy Gabor, Sage Stefanick, Gina Murrell, Megan Danielson, Glori Simmons, Shawn Calhoon, Kathleen Coll, Hwaji Shin, Joshua Gamson, Jacquelyn Brown, Genevieve Chan, Yesame Kinfe, Deja Gill, Beth Gonzales, Amy Joseph, Sarah Rewers, Tyler Murphy, Arvin Temkar, Cedric White, Cathrin Jacob, Sophia Passin, Natalia Rocco, University of San Francisco Faculty Development Fund, Student Housing and Residential Education, Steering Committee of the Leo T. McCarthy Center for Public Service and the Common Good

190 CHANGEMAKERS Changemakers, written and researched by students at the University of San Francisco, documents and celebrates the lives and legacies of 96 inspiring African Americans featured on the Inspiration Murals at the Ella Hill Hutch Community Center in San Francisco’s Western Addition neighborhood.

Celebrated artist Eugene E. White painted the portrait of Ella Hill Hutch on the cover in 1992. He is seen here in front of the Inspiration Murals, painted in 1999 by Josef Norris.

published with generous support from