Camilla Williams was a trailblazing African American opera singer who achieved several significant firsts in the world of classical music. She was the first African American woman to receive a contract with a major American opera company, making her debut with the New York City Opera in the title role of "Madama Butterfly" in 1946. Williams also became the first African American to receive a regular contract with the Vienna State Opera in Austria.

Throughout her career, Camilla Williams faced discrimination and racism in the predominantly white world of opera, but she persisted and broke down barriers for future generations of Black opera singers. Her talent and perseverance paved the way for greater diversity and inclusion in the opera world.

In addition to her pioneering accomplishments in opera, Camilla Williams was also a dedicated educator, teaching voice and music at several universities. She continued to perform and inspire audiences well into her later years, leaving behind a lasting legacy as a groundbreaking figure in Black history and classical music.