Susan Elizabeth Frazier facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Susan Elizabeth Frazier
Susan Elizabeth Frazier
Born	May 29, 1864 New York City
Died	February 3, 1924 New York City
Occupation	New York City public school teacher

Susan Elizabeth Frazier (born May 29, 1864 – died February 3, 1924) was an important person who spoke up for the rights of women and African Americans. She was a skilled substitute teacher in New York City Public Schools. This was at a time when it was very hard for African American women to get such jobs.

Speaking Up for Rights

Susan Elizabeth Frazier believed in fairness for everyone. She was a strong voice for women and for African Americans.

A Powerful Speech

In 1892, Susan gave a speech called "Some Afro American Women of Mark." She spoke to the Brooklyn Literary Union. This speech was very important. People still talk about it and use it in books today. It showed how much she cared about equality.

Fighting for a Teaching Job

In the late 1800s, it was common for schools to separate students and teachers by race. African American teachers usually only taught African American students.

Facing Discrimination

In 1894, Susan applied to be a public school teacher in New York City. She wanted to teach at a school with mostly white students. The principal, F. W. James, met her. But he refused to hire her because she was African American. He said it would "cause trouble."

Susan was very brave. She said, "There are colored teachers in the schools of Brooklyn, Jersey City, Boston and other cities, and I think it time that the color line was obliterated in appointing a teacher in New York City." She meant that a person's skin color should not stop them from getting a job.

Taking Her Case to Court

Susan decided to fight this unfair decision. She took her case to court. At first, the court did not agree with her in 1895. But Susan did not give up. She kept fighting for her right to teach. Finally, on May 26, 1896, she won! She was officially hired as a teacher. This was a big victory against unfair rules.

Helping During World War I

Susan Elizabeth Frazier also helped her community during World War I.

Supporting Soldiers

She became the president of the Women's Auxiliary of the Old Fifteenth National Guard. This was an African American army group. She continued to work with them even after they became known as the 369th Infantry. She helped support the soldiers and their families.

A Trip to Europe

In 1919, Susan was one of 15 teachers who won a special contest. The contest was held by the Evening Telegram newspaper. People voted for their favorite teachers.

Visiting Battlefields

The winning teachers got to travel to Europe. They left on November 10, 1919, on a ship called the SS Royal George. They visited the places where battles had just ended. This trip gave them a chance to see history firsthand.

A Lasting Legacy

Susan Elizabeth Frazier passed away in 1924. She was honored for her service and bravery.

Honored for Her Life

Her funeral was held with full military honors at the 369th Regiment Armory. Her casket was covered with the American flag. This showed how much she was respected. Susan was the great-granddaughter of Andrew Frazier, an African American Veteran who fought in the American Revolutionary War. She left behind a legacy of fighting for justice and equality.