Fannie Lewis facts for kids

Fannie Lewis (June 6, 1926 – August 11, 2008) was a very important leader in Cleveland, Ohio. She was the longest-serving councilwoman and a strong civil rights activist. She is famous for the Fannie Lewis Law. This law makes sure that government projects in Cleveland hire local workers.

In 1986, Fannie Lewis was chosen for a special trip. She joined a group of Black female politicians who traveled to China. They represented the United States. Other important leaders, like Congresswoman Maxine Waters, were also part of this group.

Early Life and Challenges

Fannie Lewis was born in Memphis, Tennessee. She spent her early years in Marked Tree, Arkansas. Later, she moved back to Memphis. As a teenager, she went to Booker T. Washington High School.

Lewis was a talented athlete. She earned awards in basketball and track. She also played baseball very well. In the late 1930s, she played on a traveling female baseball team. Once, her team played an all-white female team. They faced hostility from white spectators. Lewis and her teammates had to leave quickly for their safety. As a child, she also worked in the fields. She picked cotton in Marion, Arkansas.

Serving on the Cleveland City Council

Fannie Lewis was a member of the Democratic Party. She served on the Cleveland City Council for many years. Her term started on January 2, 1980. She served until her death on August 11, 2008. This made her the longest-serving female council member in Cleveland's history.

Lewis was known for speaking her mind. She sometimes had strong disagreements with other politicians. In 2002, she met with President George W. Bush. He said he was honored to hear her speak. Lewis was also shown in a film called No Umbrella: Election Day in the City. This film highlighted her efforts to get more voting machines for her community. People had to wait in the rain for hours to vote.

She supported the Cleveland School voucher program. This program helps students attend different schools. She was also a key supporter of the Fannie Lewis Law. This law, passed in 2003, requires that local residents get jobs on public construction projects in Cleveland.