Sadie Tanner Mossell Alexander was a prominent civil rights activist and attorney in the 20th century who made significant contributions to the legal field and the fight for equality. Born on February 1, 1898, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, she was a trailblazer in her time, breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations of African-American women.
Coming from a family of achievers, Sadie Tanner Mossell Alexander was the daughter of Aaron Albert Mossell II and Mary Louisa Tanner. She grew up alongside her siblings, Aaron Albert Mossell III and Elizabeth Mossell, in a household that valued education and excellence. From a young age, Sadie showed great promise and intelligence, setting her sights on pursuing higher education and making a difference in the world.
After completing her schooling in Philadelphia, Sadie went on to become the first African-American woman in the United States to earn a PhD from an American university. She achieved this milestone at the University of Pennsylvania, where she also became the first African-American woman to be admitted and graduate from the Law School. Her academic accomplishments were groundbreaking and opened doors for other women of color to pursue higher education and careers in the legal field.
Throughout her career, Sadie Tanner Mossell Alexander was a fierce advocate for civil rights and social justice. She became the first African-American woman to be admitted to the Pennsylvania Bar and went on to make history as the first woman to serve as secretary of the National Bar Association. She was a founding member of the national Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, where she fought tirelessly for equality and justice for all.
In addition to her legal work, Sadie was deeply involved in activism and advocacy. She was appointed to the President's Committee on Civil Rights and played a crucial role in shaping policies and initiatives to advance civil rights in the United States. She was also a driving force behind the passage of key legislation that promoted equality and justice for marginalized communities.
Outside of her professional achievements, Sadie Tanner Mossell Alexander was a devoted wife and mother. In 1923, she married Raymond Pace Alexander, a prominent attorney and civil rights activist. Together, they had two daughters, Mary Elizabeth Alexander and Rae Pace Alexander, who would also go on to make significant contributions to society.
Throughout her life, Sadie Tanner Mossell Alexander remained dedicated to her family, her community, and the fight for justice. Her legacy continues to inspire generations of activists, lawyers, and advocates who strive to uphold the principles of equality and fairness. She was a true pioneer in the civil rights movement, breaking down barriers and challenging injustice with courage and determination.
Named by U.S. President Jimmy Carter to chair the decennial White House Conference on Aging in 1979, Sadie Tanner Mossell Alexander left a lasting impact on the legal profession and the fight for civil rights. Her work and her legacy serve as a reminder of the power of perseverance, passion, and purpose in the pursuit of justice and equality for all.