Joel Atkins

Joel Elvin Atkins was an important leader who worked for civil rights in Florida. He was a pastor at Zion Hill Missionary Baptist Church for 42 years until he passed away in 1997. He also led the NAACP in Winter Haven, Florida, and later for the whole state. He helped organize efforts to bring people together and ensure equal rights for everyone.

A Leader for Civil Rights

Joel Elvin Atkins was a strong voice for change. He became the president of the local NAACP group in Winter Haven, Florida. Later, he became the leader for the entire state of Florida.

Fighting for Equal Schools

Mr. Atkins challenged Florida's governor, Claude Kirk. The governor was trying to slow down or stop school busing. School busing was a way to help integrate schools, meaning students of all races could attend the same schools. Joel Atkins believed in making sure all students had fair chances.

Advocating for Fairness

In 1967, Joel Atkins suggested that "social action" was a better way to solve problems than "confrontations at rallies." This meant working through laws and community efforts rather than just protests. In 1970, he spoke about his concerns that many people who died in encounters with law enforcement officers were Black. He worked to bring attention to these issues and push for fairness.

He was once photographed with Tal Rutledge and Rev. Omega F. Neaman at an NAACP meeting.

His Life and Family

Joel Elvin Atkins was married to Theodosia Sarah Owens Atkins for 50 years. He passed away in Miami on October 5, 1997, when he was 75 years old. He was survived by his wife and four children.