Mamie Currie Hughes

Mamie F. Currie Hughes was born on May 3, 1929. In 1954 Mamie and her husband, Leonard Hughes, came to Kansas City, Missouri, and joined organizations to better the city. Mamie was a leading member of the local NAACP chapter along with other organizations that sought to improve conditions in Kansas City for the African American community. Mamie was regarded by some as "Kansas City's own 'godmother'."

Hughes had five children and three stepchildren.

After moving to Kansas City, KS, with husband Leonard, Hughes earned a teaching certificate after taking courses at Kansas City University, St. Teresa's College, and the Metropolitan Community College. Hughes consistently worked with and advocated for projects in the Kansas City area that helped tear down racism and gender discrimination.

In 1978, Hughes was appointed to the federal volunteer service agency ACTION as the region VII director, where her work focused on community projects in the Kansas City region. Hughes held this position until March 7, 1981. eventually becoming president of the union. Hughes viewed this work as her biggest challenge, requiring navigating the tension between families living in the corridor for decades and the Missouri Department of Transportation.

Hughes was named the "1998 Central Exchange Woman of the Year."

Hughes was granted the ATHENA Award from the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce.

Hughes received the Hall of Fame Award from the Greater Kansas City Women's Political Caucus.

Hughes received the National Medal of Honor from the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution.

In 2019, Hughes was inducted into the Starr Women's Hall of Fame.