Wendell Huggins

Wendell Huggins, a long-time resident of Fayetteville, Arkansas, has lived in the city for over 35 years, moving there in 1987 from Oklahoma City for a job with AT&T. Initially unfamiliar with Fayetteville, Wendell was drawn to the area for its slower pace of life, lower crime rate, and the overall quality of life, which he found ideal for raising a family.

Wendell’s professional journey with AT&T allowed him to travel extensively across Northwest Arkansas, witnessing significant changes in the region over the decades. He has observed both racial and socioeconomic shifts, noting the increasing diversity in the area. Despite the changes, Wendell remains aware of the subtle and overt forms of racism that persist, ranging from casual racist language to more blatant acts of discrimination.

Throughout his time in Fayetteville, Wendell has been active in the community, particularly through his involvement with St. James Church and the Mayor's African American Advisory Council. He has seen the importance of community and the impact of not having a concentrated black neighborhood, which affects the sense of belonging and support among black residents. His experiences in both large urban environments and smaller, more rural settings have given him a unique perspective on race relations and community building.

Wendell is vocal about the need for more inclusion and representation in local government and decision-making processes. He advocates for the proactive recruitment of people of color for leadership positions and stresses the importance of supporting black businesses and entrepreneurs. He believes that fostering a sense of unity and celebration among black residents is crucial for the community’s growth and empowerment.

Raised to be an advocate and outspoken about injustices, Wendell draws inspiration from his family’s history of activism, including his aunt, Dr. Ada Lois Sipuel Fisher, who integrated the University of Oklahoma Law School. His commitment to speaking out against racism and advocating for change is deeply ingrained in his values, emphasizing the need for continuous progress and recognition of black history and contributions in Fayetteville and beyond.

Wendell's passion for social justice and community involvement continues to drive his efforts to make Fayetteville a more inclusive and welcoming place for all its residents.