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Wade Henderson
Wade Henderson (10557212654).jpg
President of the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights
In office
January 7, 2021 – May 2, 2022
Preceded by Vanita Gupta
Succeeded by Maya Wiley
In office
1996–2016
Succeeded by Vanita Gupta
Personal details
Born (1948-04-22) April 22, 1948 (age 77)
Washington, D.C., U.S.
Education Howard University (BA)
Rutgers University, Newark (JD)

Wade J. Henderson (born April 22, 1948) is an African-American leader who works to protect and advance civil and human rights. He has been the president of the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights (LCCHR). This group works to make sure everyone has fair treatment and equal opportunities.

Wade Henderson's Journey

Early Life and Education

Wade Henderson went to Howard University and then studied law at the Rutgers University School of Law. He is a lawyer who can practice in Washington, D.C., and at the highest court in the United States. He started his own company, Wade J. Henderson, LLC, which helps groups with civil and human rights issues. He also taught law at the David A. Clarke School of Law.

Working for Civil Rights

From 1991 to 1996, Mr. Henderson worked for the NAACP. He was in charge of their work with the government and their national laws program. He helped create plans for social justice both in the U.S. and around the world.

As president of the LCCHR, he helped pass many important laws. These included laws to protect voting rights, ensure fair pay for workers, and prevent hate crimes. He also supported the appointments of important judges and government officials.

Growing the Movement

During his time as president, the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights grew a lot. It went from 170 groups to 230 groups working together. He traveled to many countries, like Switzerland, Germany, and South Africa, to talk about human rights. In 2015, he spoke at the United Nations. He asked for global action against hate crimes.

Helping People with Money and Jobs

From 2007 to 2011, Mr. Henderson advised the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC). This group helps make sure banks are safe. He gave advice on how more people could get banking services, especially those who didn't have them. He also pushed for fair hiring rules at banks. This helped people who had been in trouble in the past get a chance to find work.

Continuing to Help Others

As of 2021, Mr. Henderson volunteers his time to help people get better education and money chances. He is on the board of the Center for Responsible Lending. He also helps the Educational Testing Service and the District of Columbia School of Law. Before leading the LCCHR, he worked for the NAACP and the American Civil Liberties Union.

Awards and Recognition

  • He received special honorary doctorates from Queens College School of Law and Gettysburg College.
  • He is a member of the Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity.
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