Richard P. Santos

They Call Me Trusty

History & Biography

“There were several individuals and groups who started protesting, talking, having meetings, and using the media to confront race issues, hiring minorities, discrimination, favoritism, and bias in Santa Clara County, California, civil service jobs. The person who stood out the most regarding the fire service was Dudley Bynoe. He was driven with passion, a fierce competitor, and persisted in the face of resistance. His leadership, determination, negotiating skills, and selflessness were the foundation for starting the Santa Clara County Black Firefighters Association. People of color received the benefits of Bynoe’s support and sacrifice. He was the main ingredient that desegregated the fire service in Santa Clara County. I became a better person by knowing and working with him.”