Mr. Chase was a trumpeter for voter registration and bravely encouraged so many to register to vote. Dooky Chase Restaurant went on to provide a safe place for individuals of all ethnic communities to meet and discuss strategies for the Civil Rights Movement. Mr. & Mrs. Chase were forerunners that vigorously worked to open doors for African American Artists and Entertainers. Mr. Chase, as a legendary musician and Leader of the Dooky Chase Orchestra, was the first African American to co-promote a musical concert that was held in the Municipal Auditorium. Billed as “The Greatest Show of 1949” a line-up that included Duke Ellington and his full orchestra. This historical event was enjoyed by a racially mixed audience during the era of segregation.

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Mr. & Mrs. Chase were patrons of black art and helped to create opportunities for African American Artists to showcase their talents. Their collection — displayed on the walls of the restaurant — was at one time considered New Orleans’ best collection of African American Art. Mrs. Chase served on the board of the New Orleans Museum of Fine Arts and has even testified before Congress to lobby for greater funding for the National Endowment for the Arts. They were true ambassadors for the Cultural Arts and had empowered and inspired artists to live their dreams.