21 Marjorie Edwina Pitter King (she/her)
By Kent Bui (he/him)
Marjorie Edwina Pitter King’s journey began in 1921 when she was born in Seattle to parents Edward A. Pitter and Marjorie Allen Pitter. Her path to success was not without its challenges, but her resilience and determination proved to be her defining traits in the face of adversity. After graduating from Garfield High School, King pursued higher education at the University of Washington in the College of Economics and Business, where she aimed for an accounting degree.
Financial constraints loomed large during her university years, leading King to find unconventional methods to fund her education. To do this, she founded “Tres Hermanas,” a printing company, with her two sisters. Yet, her academic journey was marred by the pervasive racism of the era, leaving a bitter taste of discrimination within the halls of higher learning. In 1942, seeking refuge from the prejudice she encountered, King transferred to Howard University, a historically Black college and university, to complete her senior year. However, World War II started, and the call of duty beckoned, which she heeded by abandoning her formal education to join the war effort. She contributed her skills by conducting office work at the Pentagon.
Following the war conclusion in 1944, King returned to her roots in Seattle. She planted the seeds of her entrepreneurial spirit by establishing M & M Tax and Consultant Services. She ran and owned the business until 1995 when she sold it. King’s ambitions extended beyond commerce and she was driven by a fervent desire to effect change in her community. Thus, she became a tireless advocate for the Democratic Party, assuming various pivotal leadership roles over the years.
As a lifelong activist for the Democratic Party, King held various positions such as Treasurer of the Washington State Federation of Democratic Women, Inc., and sat on the Rules, Credentials, and Platform Committee of the King County Democratic Party. She attended the 1964 National Democratic Convention and gave her unwavering support to the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party delegates. At the 1968 Convention in Chicago, she was tear-gassed during the riots. The apex of King’s political career arrived in 1965, a watershed moment marked by tragedy and triumph. Following the sudden death of Ann T. O’Donnell, King ascended to the pinnacle of her political career, becoming the first Black woman to serve in the Washington State Legislature. This historic milestone not only shattered the glass ceilings but also illuminated the path for future generations of aspiring leaders.
Marjorie Edwina Pitter King’s life epitomizes the adage of adversity that breeds resilience. From humble beginnings marred by discrimination to being an advocate for others politically, her journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and determination. Through her tireless commitment to public service, King carved out a legacy that continues to empower individuals to strive for excellence and effect positive change in their communities. Her story serves as a beacon of change, reminding the world that with resilience and determination, we all can overcome each and every obstacle while leaving an enduring impact on the lives and environments around us.
