Rodolphe Desdunes
1849–1928 (age 79)
Civil rights activist
Biography
Rodolphe Desdunes, a lifelong New Orleanian, was a tireless advocate for civil rights who documented the struggles and achievements of his community through journalism, public speaking, and legal appeals, helping to keep the fight for equal treatment in local and national conversation.
He nurtured younger leaders, preserved the stories of Creole families, and returned repeatedly to his hometown to counsel civic organizations, leaving behind a body of writing and activism that inspired future generations.