Fannie Lou Hamer

civil rights · voting rights · women's leadership · activist

Fighting for voting rights. Fannie Lou Hamer worked tirelessly to help Black Americans register to vote in Mississippi, despite facing threats and violence. She believed everyone deserved a voice in choosing their leaders, no matter their skin color.

The Freedom Summer organizer. She helped organize Freedom Summer, a massive project where hundreds of young activists came to Mississippi to help register Black voters and teach children. This bold effort challenged laws that kept Black people from voting.

Speaking truth at the convention. At the 1964 Democratic National Convention, Fannie Lou represented the Freedom Democratic Party and shared her powerful story of being beaten for trying to vote. Her brave speech moved millions of people watching on television.

Lifting up women leaders. She co-founded the National Women's Political Caucus to help women of all backgrounds run for office and get elected to government positions. She believed women needed a seat at the table too.

Never giving up. Even when she was arrested, beaten, and threatened, Fannie Lou kept fighting for justice and equality. Her courage inspired countless people to stand up for what's right.