Cora Walker facts for kids

Cora Thomasina Walker (born June 20, 1922 – died July 13, 2006) was a very important lawyer from Harlem, New York. She was one of the first black women to work as a lawyer in the state of New York.

Who Was Cora Walker?

Cora Thomasina Walker was a pioneering lawyer who broke barriers for black women in the legal field. She was known for helping people in her community and for her leadership in various legal organizations.

Early Life and Education

Cora Walker was born on June 20, 1922, in Charlotte, North Carolina. Her parents were William and Benetta Jones Walker. When she was a teenager, her parents separated. Cora, her mother, and her eight brothers and sisters needed help from the government to get by.

After graduating from James Monroe High School, Cora started working two jobs to help her family. At the same time, she began studying at St. John's University. This was a special six-year program where students could earn both a science degree and a law degree. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in June 1945. She then graduated from St. John's University's School of Law in 1946.

A Pioneer in Law

After finishing law school, Cora Walker faced challenges. In the 1940s, it was hard for a black woman to find a job as a lawyer. So, in 1947, after she became a certified lawyer in New York State, she decided to open her own law office.

Her office was in Harlem, a vibrant neighborhood in New York City. She worked there, helping people in her community, until she retired in 1999. From 1976 to 1999, she worked with her son in their law firm, Walker & Bailey.

Making a Difference

Cora Walker was a leader in many ways. She ran for a seat in the New York State Senate in 1958 and 1964. She also became the first female president of The Harlem Lawyers Association. This was a big achievement for women in law.

In 1970, a major newspaper, The New York Times, recognized her as one of the most powerful people in Harlem. In 1988, she led a section of the National Bar Association. She started a conference to help connect African-American lawyers with big companies.

St. John's University honored Cora Walker twice. On January 25, 1992, she received an honorary Doctor of Laws degree. She also received a Medal of Honor from the university on June 9, 2000.

Family Life

Cora Walker was married to Lawrence Bailey, who was also a lawyer. They later divorced. Together, they had two sons, Lawrence Jr. and Bruce E. Bailey.

Her Legacy

Cora Walker passed away on July 13, 2006. To honor her important work, the Commercial Law Section of the National Bar Association started giving out an award in her name in 2005. This award celebrates her lasting impact on the legal world and her dedication to helping others.