Constance Slaughter-Harvey facts for kids
Constance Iona Slaughter-Harvey, born in 1946, is an important American judge. In 1976, she made history by becoming the first Black female judge in the state of Mississippi.
Her Early Life and Education
Constance Slaughter-Harvey grew up in Forest, Mississippi. She was a very bright student and graduated as the top student from Hawkins High School in 1963. She then went to Tougaloo College, where she earned a bachelor's degree in political science and economics. She graduated with high honors.
While in college, she met Medgar Evers, a brave leader in the Civil Rights Movement. When he was sadly assassinated in 1963, it deeply affected her. This event inspired Constance to study law and become a lawyer. She then attended the University of Mississippi School of Law. In 1970, she became the first African-American woman to graduate from that law school.
Her Amazing Career
At just 24 years old, Constance Slaughter-Harvey played a key role in making sure that the Mississippi State Highway Patrol included Black officers. Her efforts helped open the door for Black men to become state troopers not just in Mississippi, but across the entire United States.
After finishing law school in 1970, she took legal action against the state of Mississippi. She argued that the state was unfair because of race. Because of her efforts, Mississippi added its first three Black state troopers. These brave men were Walter Crosby, Lewis Younger, and R. O. Williams. Constance Slaughter-Harvey believed that the Highway Patrol needed to change, and she used her law degree to make that happen. She was so focused on this important case that she even missed her own law school graduation ceremony!
In 1976, Constance Slaughter-Harvey was chosen to serve as a judge for Scott County. This appointment was a huge moment, as it made her the very first Black female judge in Mississippi. She also served on important committees that advised the Governor and President Jimmy Carter.
Her Personal Life
Constance Slaughter-Harvey is a member of the Catholic Church.
See also
- List of first women lawyers and judges in Mississippi
