Interview #35: Hughes, Mamie

Step into the remarkable story of Mamie Hughes — an educator, activist, and community leader whose life journey spans the segregated South, the Civil Rights era, and decades of advocacy in Kansas City.

In this powerful oral history interview, Hughes reflects on growing up in Jacksonville, Florida, the influence of Black educators and leaders like Mary McLeod Bethune, her experiences with segregation in Mississippi, and her later work in politics and community empowerment through organizations like Freedom, Inc.

Her story offers a firsthand look at perseverance, faith, education, and the ongoing fight for equality and opportunity. Read the full interview below, then continue the experience by watching an additional video interview featuring Mamie Hughes.