White Actress Files Lawsuit Against San Diego Library Over Canceled One-Woman Show With Her Playing Harriet Tubman and Other Black Icons

A white actress, Annette Hubbell, is pursuing legal action against the San Diego Library for alleged racial discrimination after her scheduled one-woman show, "Woman Warriors," was canceled. In this production, she honors significant Black civil rights figures, including Harriet Tubman. Library officials expressed concerns that some patrons might perceive her performance as culturally insensitive. For five years, Hubbell has showcased her tribute to remarkable women at various venues nationwide, reflecting her belief that these icons have greatly impacted society.Her contract, signed in May 2023, permitted her to portray three characters. However, just two weeks before her performance, the library's management insisted she replace Tubman and another Black historical figure with white characters. Disappointed by this directive, Hubbell decided against participating. Subsequently, she sought assistance from San Diego County Supervisor Joel Anderson, which led to a review that upheld the library's actions as non-discriminatory, despite her claims of bias.