African Descent Archives - Page 3 of 51

A noted educator and nationally known club woman, Bowser developed night classes and led summer teaching institutes throughout the state of Virginia for African American educators. She would later become a founder and president of the Virginia State Teachers Association.

Jamila Jones

Jamila Jones sang professionally as a teenager with the Montgomery Gospel Trio and the Harambee Singers. In 1958, she came to the Highlander Folk School for nonviolent activist training.

Dorie Ladner

Sisters Dorie and Joyce Ladner grew up in Mississippi and became civil rights activists as teenagers in the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP).

Joyce Ladner

Sisters Dorie and Joyce Ladner grew up in Mississippi and became civil rights activists as teenagers in the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP).

Janie Porter Barrett

From her home in Hampton, Barrett founded the Locust Street Settlement House, serving her local Black community with classes, childcare, entertainments, and lectures.

Odessa Brown

She worked tirelessly to convince Model Cities to develop a Central District Pediatric Clinic in Seattle.

Judge Lori K Smith

Judge Smith’s impacts extend far beyond the courtroom’s walls. She has actively worked to improve the judicial system, advocating for social justice, equity, representation, and lending her voice and expertise to countless organizations fighting for change.