Florence Kelley was born on September 12, 1859 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She came from a well-to-do family and was exposed to social issues at a young age. She attended Cornell University, where she studied under leading social thinkers of the time, including Karl Marx. It was during her time at Cornell that she became deeply passionate about social justice and reform.
After graduating from Cornell, Kelley became involved in various social justice causes. She was a strong advocate for women's suffrage and fought for civil rights for African Americans. In 1909, she played a key role in establishing the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), a leading civil rights organization that continues to fight for racial equality to this day.
Kelley was also a vocal supporter of workers' rights. She campaigned for a minimum wage and an eight-hour workday, believing that all workers deserved fair treatment and compensation for their labor. Her tireless advocacy helped improve working conditions for countless individuals across the country.
One of Kelley's closest friends and allies was author and civil rights leader W.E.B. Du Bois. The two shared a deep commitment to racial equality and social justice, and together they co-founded the NAACP. Their collaboration was instrumental in advancing the cause of civil rights in America.
Kelley was married to Lazare Wischnewetzky in 1884, with whom she had three children. Despite her busy activism and advocacy work, she always made time for her family and ensured they were well cared for. Her dedication to both her family and her work is a testament to her strength and determination.
Florence Kelley's legacy lives on in the countless individuals whose lives she touched through her tireless advocacy and activism. Her work with the NAACP and her efforts to improve working conditions for all workers have had a lasting impact on society. She remains a shining example of social justice and equality for future generations to admire and emulate.