San Diego recently lost a true trailblazer, Leon Williams, who died at 102 from cardiac arrest. He was not only the city’s first Black city councilmember but also its first Black county supervisor. Williams left behind a legacy of service, equity, and community unity that continues to inspire many.
Williams played a key role in creating San Diego’s trolley system and revitalizing downtown. His collaborative spirit helped bridge divides in a city fragmented by the Mission Valley sprawl and the 805 freeway. He was also a pioneer in establishing the Southeastern Economic Development Corporation and the Centre City Development Corporation.
Williams’ story is not just about breaking barriers but also about bringing lasting change to his community. His leadership in starting the local Hate Crimes Registry and founding the county’s first human relations commission showed his commitment to justice and fairness.
A Legacy of Service and Fairness
Leon Williams’ journey to public office began in 1969 when he was elected to represent District 4. Despite facing racial discrimination, he never let it deter his mission. He often said he wanted to create more fairness and equity, drawing inspiration from civil rights leaders like Martin Luther King Jr.
In 1982, Williams became the first Black county supervisor in San Diego. His influence extended beyond the city as he served as president of the California Associations of Counties in 1993 and joined the board of the National Association of Counties. His work was recognized in 2016 when he was named ‘Mr. San Diego’ by the Rotary Club.
Championing Equity and Inclusion
Williams’ passion for equity was not limited to his public roles. He was also a catalyst for change in his neighborhood, becoming the first Black homeowner in an area with ‘whites-only’ restrictions. His home on E Street became a symbol of resistance and triumph.
Seventy years after purchasing his home, the city honored him by renaming his block ‘Leon Williams Drive.’ His story was immortalized in a biography titled ‘Together We Can Do More: The Leon Williams Story’ by Lynne Carrier. Williams even celebrated the book at a hotel that had once denied him service.
Always Dreaming of a Better Society
Even at 100, Williams was still dreaming of how to create a more respectful and appreciative society. He often shared his thoughts on equity and justice, proving that his spirit of service never waned. ‘Sometimes I don’t sleep because I’m thinking about human beings and how we could create a better society,’ he said at his lifetime achievement award ceremony in 2022.
His dedication to building a unified community and his impact on San Diego will be felt for generations. As California Secretary of State Shirley Weber put it, Williams ‘opened the doors with dignity and purpose’ and brought others along with him.
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