Ah Quon McElrath facts for kids

Ah Quon McElrath (born December 15, 1915 – died December 11, 2008) was an important leader in Hawaii. She worked hard to improve conditions for workers and was a strong voice for fairness. She spent her career fighting for equal pay and better treatment for people in unions. She wanted to make sure workers were treated well by big companies in Hawaii, known as the Big Five. She retired in 1981, but her work made a lasting difference.

Growing Up in Hawaii

Ah Quon McElrath was born in a place called Iwilei, Hawaii. Her parents had moved there from Zhongshan, China. Her father worked many small jobs. Sadly, he passed away when Ah Quon was only five years old. After her father's death, Ah Quon and her brothers and sisters had to work in pineapple canneries to help their family.

When she was 17, Ah Quon went to hear a famous writer named Upton Sinclair speak. He talked about how hard life was for many poor people. This speech really inspired her. It made her want to become a social activist and help others. In 1941, she married Robert "Bob" McElrath.

Working for Change

Starting Her Career

While she was studying at the University of Hawaii, Ah Quon McElrath joined a group called the Interprofessional Association. There, she met Jack Hall. He was a leader of a big workers' union called the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) Local 142.

After finishing college, she worked for the Board of Public Welfare. This job helped her understand more about people's needs.

Helping Workers and Communities

In the 1940s, Ah Quon started volunteering for the ILWU. She gave speeches and helped dockworkers join the union. She used her skills as a social worker to help many people. For example, after a big tsunami hit Hilo in 1946, she helped those affected.

She also played a part in the sugar strike of 1946. During this time, she taught striking workers about their rights. In 1954, she officially became a paid social worker for the ILWU. She worked there until she retired in 1981. After retiring, she also served on the board of a group that worked for civil rights.

Later Years and Legacy

Continuing Her Advocacy

Even after she retired, Ah Quon McElrath kept working hard for important causes. She spoke up for people who were poor, for women's rights, for better education, and for good health care for everyone.

For two years after retirement, she worked with a foundation to improve a program called SSI. This program helps people who need financial support. She also served on the Board of Regents at the University of Hawaii. She helped create the Ethnic Studies department there, which teaches about different cultures and backgrounds.

Awards and Recognition

Ah Quon McElrath received many honors for her dedication. In 1988, the University of Hawaii gave her an honorary doctorate degree. This is a special award that recognizes someone's achievements. In 2004, she received the UH Founders Alumni Association Lifetime Achievement Award.

Ah Quon McElrath passed away in 2008. Her life showed how one person can make a huge difference in fighting for fairness and helping others.