Exploring the Life and Legacy of Viola Bowles Black

Viola Bowles Black was a woman ahead of her time. Born in 1889, she dedicated her life to fighting for civil rights and equality for African Americans. She faced numerous challenges and obstacles throughout her life, but her unwavering commitment to justice and equality made her a hero to many.

Early Life

Viola Bowles was born in 1889 in Nashville, Tennessee. Her parents were former slaves who had moved to Nashville after the Civil War. Growing up, Viola witnessed firsthand the injustices and inequalities that African Americans faced on a daily basis. Despite these challenges, she was an excellent student and graduated from Fisk University as valedictorian in 1910.

Activism and Advocacy

After graduating from Fisk, Viola moved to Cleveland, Ohio, where she became involved in civil rights activism. She joined the NAACP and worked tirelessly to promote equal rights and opportunities for African Americans. She also became involved in politics and served as a delegate to the 1924 Democratic National Convention.

Throughout her career, Viola fought against discrimination in housing, education, and employment. She was particularly passionate about ensuring that African American children had access to quality education. In 1935, she helped found the Cleveland Council of Negro Women, which worked to improve the lives of African American women and children.

Legacy

Viola Bowles Black passed away in 1948 at the age of 59. However, her legacy lives on through the countless individuals she inspired and the organizations she helped establish. In 1951, the Cleveland Board of Education named a new elementary school after her in honor of her tireless efforts to promote education and equality.

A young Viola Bowles Black

Viola's contributions to the civil rights movement paved the way for generations of activists and advocates. Her work serves as a reminder of the importance of standing up for what is right and fighting for justice and equality for all.

The Viola Bowles Black Center for Diversity and Inclusion

In 2018, Case Western Reserve University opened the Viola Bowles Black Center for Diversity and Inclusion in honor of Viola's legacy. The center serves as a hub for diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives and programming on campus, and seeks to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all members of the university community.

Viola Bowles Black speaking at a civil rights rally

Viola Bowles Black may not be a household name, but her impact on the civil rights movement cannot be overstated. Her unwavering dedication to justice and equality serves as an inspiration to us all, and her legacy continues to live on through the organizations and individuals she influenced during her lifetime.

Viola Bowles Black, civil rights, activism, equality, diversity and inclusion