Womens History Month 2023: Mary E. Church Terrell

Mary E. Church Terrell: An Advocate for Women’s Suffrage and Civil Rights

Mary E. Church Terrell was an African American suffragist and civil rights advocate who dedicated her life to fighting for women’s rights and racial equality. Born in Memphis, Tennessee in 1863, Terrell was the daughter of former slaves who worked hard to ensure their children received a good education. After graduating from Oberlin College in 1884, Terrell became a teacher, but soon turned to advocacy work.

In 1892, Terrell joined the National American Woman Suffrage Association and became a prominent speaker and organizer for the suffrage movement. She used her platform to draw attention to the intersectionality of race and gender, and to advocate for the right to vote for all women, regardless of race. She also fought against discrimination in public spaces, and was a key figure in the desegregation of restaurants in Washington, D.C.

Terrell’s advocacy work continued throughout her life. In 1909, she helped found the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), and served as the only woman on its first executive committee. She also played a leading role in the fight against lynching and other forms of racial violence.

Terrell’s tireless advocacy work helped lay the groundwork for the civil rights and feminist movements of the 20th century. Her legacy continues to inspire people today, as we work to build a more just and equal society.

#MaryEChurchTerrell #WomensHistoryMonth #CivilRights #SuffrageMovement #Intersectionality #SocialJustice #AdvocacyWork