Economic Opportunity Commission, Southeast Texas

Abstract Cleveland Nisby was a prominent civic leader and activist in the Beaumont, Texas area. While employed by the Magnolia Refinery, Mr. Nisby worked to get union representation for Black workers and to eliminate dual lines of promotion for Black and White workers. In the 1960’s he made numerous appearances before local elected officials to encourage the hiring of Black clerical and professional employees. His efforts led to the hiring of the first Black employee hired for a clerical position in...