David Hilliard Eaton facts for kids

David Hilliard Eaton (born 1932 – died October 21, 1992) was an important African-American minister and leader in Washington, D.C.. He was the first African-American minister at All Souls Church, Unitarian. Under his leadership, the church became a key place for social activism. It also became a welcoming place for people of all races.

Early Life and Learning

David Hilliard Eaton was born in Washington, D.C. He went to Dunbar High School. In 1954, he earned his first college degree from Howard University. He then studied to become a minister at the Boston University School of Theology.

In 1954, Eaton served in the army as a Second Lieutenant in Germany. He became a Methodist minister in 1957. Later, in 1961, he returned to Washington, D.C. He worked at Howard University as a Methodist chaplain, helping students with their spiritual needs. He also worked as the university's registrar.

Leading All Souls Church

In 1969, David Eaton became the minister of All Souls Church. At that time, most people in the church were white. However, the area around the church was becoming mostly black. Eaton was the first African-American minister not only at All Souls but also at any large Unitarian Universalist church. He was a trusted advisor to Marion Barry, who was the mayor of Washington, D.C. and a member of his church.

One of Eaton's early sermons caused a lot of discussion. In May 1970, he spoke about a new law that would let police enter homes without knocking. He strongly disagreed with this law. He believed that people should be able to protect their homes. He said that stopping unfairness was very important.

Community Work

Beyond his church work, Eaton was very active in the community. He served on the District of Columbia State Board of Education from 1981 until his death. He was even the president of the school board from 1982 to 1985.

In 1964, Eaton started the Washington Institute for Employment Training. This organization helped people find jobs and learn new skills. It later became part of a larger group called the Opportunities Industrialization Center.

Eaton also taught at Federal City College starting in 1968. He was an associate dean and a professor of philosophy. Later, he became the dean of student services.

For about 15 years, from the 1960s to the 1970s, Eaton hosted a radio show called "Speakup" on WOL (AM). It was a late-night call-in show where listeners could share their thoughts and opinions.

Later Life

David Eaton passed away on October 21, 1992. He is buried at Arlington National Cemetery.

Awards and Recognition

David Hilliard Eaton received many awards for his important work:

• In 1976, he received the Washingtonian of the Year Award from Washingtonian magazine.
• Also in 1976, he got the Citizen of the Year Award from the National Association of Social Workers.
• In 1983, he was given the Man-of-the-Year Award by the Shiloh Baptist Church in Washington.
• He received the UUA Clarence Skinner Award in 1985 for his sermon "Racism is Alive and Well."
• In 1986, he was given an honorary doctorate degree from the Starr King School for the Ministry.
• In 1990, the YMCA of Metropolitan Washington named him Man of the Year.
• In 1992, he received the UUA Holmes-Weatherly Award for his strong dedication to social justice.