Pearl Hart was a trailblazing public defender from Chicago who dedicated her entire career to fighting for the rights of minorities, the oppressed, and those who were unable to defend themselves. Born in Traverse City, Michigan on July 4, 1890, she was the youngest of five daughters to Russian-Jewish immigrants David and Rebecca Harchovsky.
After graduating from John Marshall Law School, Pearl Hart made history by becoming one of the first female criminal attorneys in the city of Chicago. Her passion for justice and her commitment to helping those in need quickly earned her a reputation as a fierce advocate for the underprivileged.
One of Pearl Hart's most notable achievements was her successful defense of immigrants in cases involving government questioning. She was able to persuade the Supreme Court to rule in favor of restrictions to government questioning, setting a precedent that protected the rights of immigrants across the country.
In addition to her work with immigrants, Pearl Hart also dedicated a significant amount of her career to defending the LGBTQ+ community. She fearlessly represented gays and lesbians in hundreds of cases of entrapment, working tirelessly to ensure that their rights were upheld and protected.
Pearl Hart was known for her close friendship with fellow minority rights activist Studs Terkel. Together, they worked tirelessly to advocate for equality and justice for all, using their platform to bring attention to important social issues and drive meaningful change in their community.
Pearl Hart's legacy continues to inspire countless individuals to this day. Her unwavering dedication to fighting for justice and equality serves as a powerful reminder of the impact that one person can have in creating a more just and equitable society. Pearl Hart's pioneering spirit and relentless determination make her a true icon of the civil rights movement, and her legacy will continue to live on for generations to come.