E. Melvin Porter facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
E. Melvin Porter
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|---|---|
| Member of the Oklahoma Senate for the 48th district | |
| In office 1965–1987 |
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| Preceded by | none (first member) |
| Succeeded by | Vicki Miles-LaGrange |
| Personal details | |
| Born |
Edward Melvin Porter
May 22, 1930 Okmulgee, Oklahoma, U.S. |
| Died | July 26, 2016 (aged 86) Oklahoma City, Oklahoma |
| Nationality | American |
| Political party | Democratic |
| Spouses |
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| Residence | Oklahoma City, Oklahoma |
| Alma mater | Tennessee State University Vanderbilt University Shorter College |
Edward Melvin Porter (born May 22, 1930 – died July 26, 2016) was an important American lawyer and politician. He was also a strong civil rights activist in the state of Oklahoma. He worked hard to make things fair for everyone.
Early Life and Education
Edward Melvin Porter was born in 1930 in Okmulgee, Oklahoma. He went to several colleges, including Tennessee State University, Vanderbilt University, and Shorter College. He studied hard and became a lawyer. In 1960, he passed the Oklahoma Bar examination. This meant he could officially practice law. Porter had seven children.
Fighting for Civil Rights
E. Melvin Porter was a dedicated civil rights activist. This means he worked to protect the rights of all people. In 1961, he became the president of the Oklahoma City branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). The NAACP is a group that works for equal rights for African Americans. His leadership helped bring about important changes in Oklahoma.
Making History in Politics
In 1962, Porter tried to get elected to the Oklahoma State House. He did not win that election. But he didn't give up! In 1964, he ran for the Oklahoma State Senate. He won the election for District 48. This was a very big deal. E. Melvin Porter became the first African American to serve in the Oklahoma State Senate. He served in the Senate for a long time, from 1965 until 1987. He helped create laws and policies for the people of Oklahoma.
Later Life
E. Melvin Porter passed away on July 26, 2016. He was at his home in Oklahoma City. He is remembered for his important work as a lawyer, politician, and civil rights leader. His efforts helped make Oklahoma a more fair and equal place.
