Otto P. Snowden facts for kids

Otto Phillip Snowden (1914–1995) was an important leader for Black people in Boston during the 20th century. Snowden and his wife, Muriel S. Snowden, started and led Freedom House in Roxbury from 1949 until they retired in 1984.

Early Life and Standing Up for Rights

Otto P. Snowden was born in Phoebus, Virginia. His parents were Alice and Frank M. Snowden, Sr. His father was an army officer who became a colonel. Otto was the younger brother of Frank M. Snowden, Jr.. In 1944, Snowden married Muriel Sutherland from New Jersey.

Snowden spoke up for equal rights very early in his life. When he was a student at Lewis Intermediate School in Roxbury, he led his classmates in a protest. They protested against the school's track coach because he called Black team members "boy." This showed Snowden's strong belief in fairness and respect.

Leading Change in Boston

Before and after serving in World War II, Snowden directed the St. Mark Social Center in Roxbury, Massachusetts. He later left this job to work without pay to help start Freedom House.

Starting Freedom House

Freedom House was a very important place in Roxbury. Otto and Muriel Snowden worked together to create a community center. It helped people in many ways, like offering job training and educational programs. They wanted to make Roxbury a better place for everyone.

Helping the City

Otto Snowden also worked for the City of Boston. He was a commissioner for the Parks and Recreation Department from 1949 to 1956. This meant he helped manage the city's parks and fun activities. In 1975, he became a commissioner for the Boston Housing Authority. In this role, he helped manage housing for people in Boston.

Community Involvement

Snowden was involved in many groups that helped the community. He was part of the Boston Branch of the NAACP. The NAACP is a well-known organization that fights for civil rights and equal treatment for Black people. He also helped with groups like the American Red Cross, Boston Chapter. He was a trustee for Northeastern University from 1978 to 1995. This meant he helped guide the university.

Education and Achievements

His Schooling

Snowden graduated from Dorchester High School. He then attended Howard University from 1933 to 1937. Later, he was a special graduate student at Boston University School of Social Work.

Special Recognition

Snowden received special degrees called honorary degrees from several universities. He received one from Northeastern University in 1980. He also received honorary degrees from Boston College and Simmons College in 1984. These degrees honored his important work and contributions.

Awards and Honors

Otto Snowden received many awards for his dedication and hard work.

• In 1971, the Roxbury Kiwanis Club gave him the Man of the Year award.
• He received a lifetime achievement award from the NAACP. This award recognized his many years of fighting for civil rights.
• Other awards included the Black Advocates for Quality Education award. He also received the Salvation Army Other award.