Penny Hodge facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Penny Hodge
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|---|---|
| Born |
Penelope Anderson
1920 |
| Died | July 5, 2016 Canada
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| Nationality | Canadian |
| Occupation | Activist Office worker |
Penelope "Penny" Hodge (1920 – July 5, 2016) was a Canadian woman who worked in offices and was also a dedicated activist. An activist is someone who works hard to bring about social or political change. Penny Hodge spent much of her life helping to make things better for Black women and communities in Canada.
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Who Was Penny Hodge?
Penny Hodge lived a long and important life. She was known for her hard work as an office employee. She was also a strong voice for change, especially for Black women in Canada.
Early Life and Education
Penny Hodge was born Penelope Anderson in Digby, Nova Scotia, Canada, in 1920. Her father, Martin Anderson, was a Baptist preacher. Her mother, Alfaretta Berry, was a teacher. Penny grew up on a farm in Yarmouth.
She went to a segregated public school. This means that only Black students attended her school. After finishing high school, she went to teacher's college in Truro.
Working Life
Penny Hodge taught for two years after college. Then, she started a new career as a clerk. She was hired by the National Research Council in Ottawa. This is a government organization that supports science and research.
After three years, she moved to Toronto. She worked briefly for the YWCA, which helps young women. Then, she became a clerk at the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC). The CBC is Canada's national public broadcaster. Penny worked there until she retired in 1986.
A Champion for Change
Around 1952, Penny Hodge joined the Canadian Negro Women's Association (CANEWA). This group later became known as the Congress of Black Women of Canada. Penny was a very active member. She served as the treasurer, then vice-president. In 1956, she became the president of the association.
She also volunteered her time to help the Ontario Black History Society. This group works to preserve and share the history of Black people in Ontario. Penny also served as the historian for the First Baptist Church in Toronto.
Later Years and Recognition
Penny Hodge was married twice during her life. Her first husband was Rupert Hodge. Later, she married a Mr. LaVaughn.
In 2012, Penny Hodge received a special award. It was called the Mary Matilda Winslow award. The Ontario Black History Society gave her this award to recognize her important contributions.
Penny Hodge passed away in a hospital on July 5, 2016. She was 96 years old. Her life showed how one person can make a big difference through hard work and dedication.
