Irene Griffin (activist) facts for kids
Irene W. Griffin (born November 10, 1927 – died March 27, 2012) was an important African-American activist. She made history as the first black woman to register to vote in Plaquemines Parish, Louisiana. Irene was married to Rev. Percy Murphy Griffin, who was also a civil rights leader in their community.
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Fighting for Equal Rights
Irene and her husband, Percy Murphy Griffin, worked hard for civil rights. After Percy returned from World War II, they began to challenge unfair rules. They especially stood up against Judge Leander Perez, who supported segregation. Segregation was a system that kept black and white people separate.
Voting Rights for Everyone
The Griffins started a campaign to help black people register to vote. This was a big step because, at the time, many black citizens were prevented from voting. In 1954, Irene Griffin became the very first African-American woman to officially register to vote in Plaquemines Parish. This was a brave and important moment for equal rights.
Working to Integrate Schools
In 1963, the Griffins' home was bombed because of their activism. But they did not stop fighting for what was right. In 1966, Irene and Percy worked to integrate the schools in Plaquemines Parish. This meant allowing black students to attend schools that were only for white students before.
Their goal was to integrate Woodlawn, a school on the Eastbank of Plaquemines Parish. Many white people protested against this change. Twenty-seven black students were supposed to start at Woodlawn High School. On the second day of school, Irene Griffin and other parents bravely took the remaining black students to the school.
Eventually, Woodlawn school was closed down. The school superintendent then offered parents a choice: send their children to Belle Chasse High School or keep them at Phoenix High. Irene Griffin, with her husband's support, allowed two of her sons to attend Belle Chasse High School. This was a courageous decision to help the movement for equal education.
Later Life
Irene Griffin passed away in 2012 at the age of 84. She is remembered for her courage and her important work in the Civil Rights Movement.
