William Andrew White III born in Nova Scotia in 1915, was a Canadian composer, social justice activist, and choral leader. He was the first Black Canadian to run for federal office in Canada.

White was born into an exceptional family with a deeply rooted history in Nova Scotia’s Black community. His father, who is named after, moved from Baltimore, Maryland to Canada to study at Acadia University in Nova Scotia. He became a minister and missionary, travelling to churchs throughout the Black communities across the province. He also took part in World War I, and soon became a regarded as a significant figure in Black Atlantic history.

Not only was his father a prominent Canadian figure, but his siblings led impressive lives as well. Among his twelve siblings were internationally renowned singer Portia White, labour union leader and politician Jack White, and television performer Lorne White. Another sister married and had a child Donald H. Oliver, who went on to be the first Black Canadian Senator.

In 1949, he ran for Co-operative Commonwealth Federation in Toronto’s Spadina electoral district. While he did not win, he was recognized in 1971 for his efforts and appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada. After being the first Black Canadian to run for office, the appointment was made for “services to the community and his contribution to better relations and understanding between people of different racial backgrounds.”

White used his music background to teach, compose and lead choral groups. One of these groups was with his own children, including his son Chris White, who is now an influential Canadian folk artist and activist.