Patsy Takemoto Mink, politician
Dec. 6, 1927-Sept. 28, 2002
How We Are Smart by W. Nikola-Lisa, illustrated by Sean Qualls (Lee and Low Books, 2006)
Mink, a strong civil rights advocate from Hawaii, was the first Japanese American woman to serve in Congress.
For an overview of her accomplishments, read Mink’s biography in the Biographical Directory of the United States Congress.
Septima P. Clark, civil rights advocate
May 3, 1898-Dec. 15, 1987
Women of Hope: African Americans Who Made a Difference by Joyce Hansen (Scholastic, 1998)
A teacher, Clark fought for equality in civil rights movement. Injustices done to her with regards to her lost job were repaid.
Read about Clark on this site.
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., civil rights advocate
Jan. 15, 1929-Apr. 4, 1968
Martin’s Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by Doreen Rappaport, illustrated by Bryan Collier (Jump at the Sun, 2001)
Dr.
Martin Luther King, Jr.’s words live on. His most famous speech, “I
Have a Dream,” stirs hearts today. The youngest man to win the Nobel
Peace Prize, Dr. King, Jr., a gifted African-American political leader,
minister and peacemaker is honored by a U.S. Federal holiday on his
birthday.
Check out The Seattle Times for a photo gallery, timeline, quotes, and a biography of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., a great American hero.
W.W. Law, civil rights leader
Jan. 1, 1923-July 29, 2002
Delivering Justice: W. W. Law and the Fight for Civil Rights by Jim Haskins, illustrated by Benny Andrews (Candlewick, 2005)
Westley
Wallace Law made a difference. Born in Georgia, amidst poverty and
segregation, this African American, who grew up to be a mail carrier,
joined the NAACP as a young man, helped blacks register to vote and was
instrumental in leading the Great Savannah Boycott.
This Far by Faith, a PBS program, describes W. W. Law’s life of dedication and service.
