Ethel D. Allen was born on August 5, 1929, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Raised in a politically active household, her parents were staunch Democrats who instilled in her the values of public service and community engagement. Despite this upbringing, Allen's political affiliations would later shift when she volunteered for Dwight D. Eisenhower's successful 1952 presidential campaign and joined the Republican Party.
Allen's academic pursuits were equally impressive. She obtained a bachelor's degree in biology and chemistry from West Virginia State College before going on to earn her medical degree from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. This unique combination of scientific knowledge and medical expertise would serve as the foundation for Allen's future career in public service.
Allen's entry into politics came in the 1970s when she was elected to the Philadelphia City Council as a Republican. Her commitment to social justice and healthcare advocacy quickly garnered attention, leading to her appointment as Secretary of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania under Governor Dick Thornburgh.
During her tenure as Secretary, Allen faced challenges and controversies, including her eventual dismissal by Thornburgh. Despite this setback, Allen found support from various civil rights organizations and her local African-American community, a testament to her unwavering dedication to serving the public good.
Throughout her career, Allen remained deeply connected to her roots in Philadelphia, where she continued to reside and engage with her community. Her upbringing in a politically active family had a lasting impact on her values and priorities, shaping her commitment to public service and advocacy for marginalized communities.
Ethel Allen's legacy as a pioneering African-American woman in Pennsylvania politics endures as a testament to her courage, resilience, and unwavering commitment to justice and equality. Her journey from humble beginnings to political prominence serves as a powerful example of the transformative potential of dedicated public service and advocacy.
On August 5, 2021, Ethel D. Allen passed away peacefully in her Philadelphia home, surrounded by loved ones. Her legacy as a trailblazer in Pennsylvania politics and a champion for social justice will forever be remembered and cherished by those whose lives she touched.