03/03/2026
We honor W. D. Morrison Jr., a pioneering real estate professional from Detroit, MN, whose career expanded opportunities for Black brokers.
Morrison was one of twelve founding members of the National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB), established on July 29, 1947, in Tampa, Florida, during a period when Black real estate professionals were excluded from many local REALTOR® boards and industry networks. As a founder, he demonstrated a strong commitment to building professional infrastructure and community for Black brokers nationwide.
Soon after NAREB’s founding, Morrison became its first president, serving from 1947 to 1951. He helped shape NAREB’s mission to improve business conditions for Black real estate practitioners and increase access to fair housing and homeownership.
During his tenure, Morrison promoted collaboration and professional development and expanded brokerage opportunities for Black professionals facing industry barriers. His efforts laid the groundwork for future fair housing advocacy and broader economic equity.
Pioneers like W. D. Morrison Jr. remind us that today’s diverse real estate landscape is built on the foundation of leaders who expanded access, representation, and opportunity for all.
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Photo courtesy of NAREB
