Say Her Name: Uncovering the Hidden History of Dreda Say Mitchell, the Trailblazing Educator and Civil Rights Activist

In the annals of history, the contributions of many women, particularly women of color, have been overlooked and marginalized. Dreda Say Mitchell is one such figure whose remarkable life and legacy deserve to be celebrated. As an educator, civil rights activist, and trailblazing leader, Mitchell fearlessly challenged the status quo and fought for equality and justice.

Say Her Name

by Dreda Say Mitchell

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3169 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	316 pages

FREE

Early Life and Education

Dreda Say Mitchell was born on March 25, 1898, in St. Louis, Missouri. She was the daughter of former slaves who instilled in her a strong sense of pride, self-reliance, and the importance of education. From a young age, Mitchell excelled in her studies, graduating from high school at the top of her class.

Despite facing racial discrimination throughout her education, Mitchell remained determined to pursue her dreams. She attended Fisk University in Nashville, Tennessee, where she earned a bachelor's degree in education in 1919. She went on to earn a master's degree from Columbia University in 1924.

Educator and Activist

After graduating from Columbia University, Mitchell returned to St. Louis and began her teaching career. She taught English and history at Sumner High School, which was one of the city's premier all-Black schools. Mitchell was known for her passion for teaching and her ability to connect with her students. She encouraged them to think critically, question authority, and strive for excellence.

Outside of the classroom, Mitchell was actively involved in the civil rights movement. She joined the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and became a leading voice for educational equity and social justice. Mitchell fought against segregation, discrimination, and the denial of voting rights for African Americans.

Challenging the Status Quo

Mitchell's activism often put her in danger. She faced threats, harassment, and even physical attacks. Despite these challenges, she remained undeterred in her pursuit of justice. In 1940, she led a successful campaign to desegregate the St. Louis Public Library. She also played a key role in the desegregation of St. Louis schools, which was finally achieved in 1954 with the landmark Supreme Court decision in Brown v. Board of Education.

Later Years and Legacy

Mitchell continued to teach and advocate for social justice throughout her life. She retired from teaching in 1965, but she remained active in the civil rights movement. She worked closely with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and other leaders during the Civil Rights Act and Voting Rights Act campaigns of the 1960s.

Dreda Say Mitchell passed away on September 22, 1985, at the age of 87. Her legacy continues to inspire generations of educators, activists, and leaders who fight for equality and justice. In 2018, she was posthumously inducted into the St. Louis Walk of Fame.

Dreda Say Mitchell was a remarkable woman who dedicated her life to breaking down barriers and creating a more just and equitable society. Her unwavering determination, passion for education, and commitment to civil rights activism made her a true trailblazer. By uncovering her hidden history, we honor her legacy and inspire ourselves to follow in her footsteps.

Let us remember the words of Martin Luther King Jr.: "Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly."

May the life and legacy of Dreda Say Mitchell continue to inspire and guide us as we work together to create a better world for all.

Say Her Name

by Dreda Say Mitchell

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3169 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	316 pages

FREE