Hubbard, Walter, 1924-2007

Although he was born and raised in New Orleans, African-American community activist and interfaith leader, Walter T. Hubbard (1924-2007), moved to Seattle in 1951, where he became prominent in the struggle for racial equality during the 1960s and 1970s.

Though largely active in the cause of African American civil rights, as well as a devout Catholic, the scope of Hubbard's work in advocating for basic human rights was inclusive and wide ranging. For example, as president of the Central Area Civil Rights Committee (a coalition of black civil rights organizations and advocates) from 1969 to circa 2002, Hubbard and the organization participated in activities to support the pursuit of worldwide interracial justice. On the local level, Hubbard co-founded and served as president of the Catholic Interracial Council of Seattle, which was formed by the Archibishop of Seattle to spearhead Catholic participation in civil rights and interracial justice. He also was active in the Catholic community on a national level, serving as a board member and officer of the National Catholic Conference For Interracial Justice and as president of the National Office for Black Catholics (NOBC). Hubbard also particpated in local politics by running for King County Council and Washington State Senate; he was elected to the Seattle Freeholders Board.