Sylvia Bernstein (activist) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Sylvia Bernstein
|
|
|---|---|
| Born |
Sylvia Walker
November 6, 1915 |
| Died | November 23, 2003 (aged 88) |
| Nationality | American |
| Education | George Washington University |
| Occupation | Civil rights activist |
| Spouse(s) | Alfred Bernstein |
| Children | 3, including Carl Bernstein |
Sylvia Bernstein (born Sylvia Walker; November 6, 1915 – November 23, 2003) was an American activist who worked to make society fairer for everyone. She spent her life fighting for civil rights and equality.
Contents
Early Life and Education
Sylvia Walker was born on November 6, 1915. Her parents had moved to the United States from Russia. She grew up and went to Central High School. Later, she continued her studies at George Washington University.
Working for Change
In the 1930s, Sylvia Bernstein worked as a secretary for the War Department. In the 1940s, she and her husband, Alfred, held strong beliefs about how society should work. Because of these beliefs, they faced difficulties from the government. When asked about her involvement, Sylvia used her Fifth Amendment right. This right allows people to avoid saying things that might get them into trouble.
Helping Others and Protesting
In 1962, she worked as a statistician for a group called Resources for the Future. This group studied economic ideas. From 1964 to 1989, she worked in a gift shop at Garfinckel's. Later, she even worked for President Bill Clinton's team. She helped answer letters for the First Lady, Hillary Rodham Clinton.
Sylvia was a very active member of the Democratic Party. She also joined a group called Women Strike for Peace. This group protested against nuclear weapons and the Vietnam War.
Fighting for Equal Rights
Sylvia Bernstein played a big part in ending segregation in Washington, D.C. Segregation meant that Black and white people were kept separate. She helped make sure that restaurants, the Glen Echo amusement park, public swimming pools, and playgrounds were open to everyone. She also supported Julius and Ethel Rosenberg, who were involved in a famous court case in the 1950s.
Family and Later Life
Sylvia Walker married Alfred Bernstein, who was also an activist. They had three children together. Their son, Carl Bernstein, became a well-known journalist. Their other children were Mary Bernstein and Laura Bernstein.
Sylvia Bernstein passed away on November 23, 2003. She was 88 years old and died in Washington, D.C.
See also
