Sadie Tanner Mossell Alexander, American economist and lawyer (d. 1989)

Sadie Tanner Mossell Alexander (January 2, 1898 – November 1, 1989) stands as a monumental figure in American history, celebrated for her trailblazing achievements as a Black professional and an unrelenting civil rights activist throughout the early to mid-20th century. Born into a prominent intellectual family – her uncle was renowned artist Henry Ossawa Tanner and her father, Aaron A. Mossell, was one of the first African American lawyers in Philadelphia – Alexander inherited a legacy of excellence and advocacy that she would profoundly expand upon.

Her academic journey was marked by groundbreaking "firsts." In 1921, Sadie Tanner Mossell Alexander earned her Ph.D. in economics from the University of Pennsylvania, making her the first African American to achieve a doctorate in economics in the United States. Her seminal dissertation, titled "The Standard of Living Among One Hundred Negro Families in Philadelphia," offered critical insights into the socioeconomic conditions facing Black communities during a period of significant racial discrimination and economic hardship. This achievement was particularly remarkable given the immense barriers faced by Black women in higher education at the time.

Not content with a single academic triumph, Alexander continued to shatter glass ceilings in the legal field. Just a few years later, in 1927, she became the first woman to receive a law degree from the University of Pennsylvania Law School. Following this, she made history yet again by becoming the first Black woman to practice law in Pennsylvania, launching a distinguished legal career where she specialized in estate and family law, often serving the underserved communities that faced systemic injustices.

Beyond her unparalleled academic and legal pursuits, Sadie Tanner Mossell Alexander was a pivotal leader in national organizations. From 1919 to 1923, she served as the first national president of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., one of the historically Black Greek-letter sororities deeply rooted in public service and social action. Under her leadership, the sorority expanded its reach and solidified its commitment to community development and advocacy for civil rights, laying a strong foundation for its future influence.

Her commitment to civil rights was a lifelong endeavor, often pursued in tandem with her equally influential husband, Raymond Pace Alexander, a prominent lawyer and later a judge in Philadelphia. Together, they formed a formidable power couple, advocating for racial equality and justice both locally in Philadelphia and across the nation. Their efforts were instrumental in challenging segregation and discrimination in various spheres.

Sadie Tanner Mossell Alexander's influence extended directly into the highest echelons of American governance. In 1946, President Harry S. Truman appointed her to his groundbreaking President's Committee on Civil Rights. This committee’s pivotal 1947 report, "To Secure These Rights," laid out a comprehensive blueprint for civil rights reform, urging an end to segregation and the protection of voting rights. Her intellectual rigor and legal expertise significantly shaped this landmark document, which became a foundational text for the burgeoning modern Civil Rights Movement.

Locally, her dedication to social justice was equally profound. In 1952, she was appointed to the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations, an essential civic body tasked with addressing issues of discrimination and promoting equitable practices within the city. She served with distinction on this commission until 1968, a period spanning crucial decades of the Civil Rights Movement, where she actively worked to implement fair housing policies and combat employment discrimination.

Her legal acumen continued to serve the cause of justice through her involvement with key organizations. In 1963, she was a founding member of the national Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, an organization established at the request of President John F. Kennedy to ensure legal representation for those involved in the Civil Rights Movement and to combat racial injustice through legal means. Her decades of experience provided invaluable guidance to this critical initiative. Furthermore, she contributed significantly to economic empowerment and social equality as a dedicated board member of the National Urban League for an impressive 25 years, actively participating in efforts to improve the lives of African Americans in urban settings.

Even in her later years, Alexander remained a respected voice in public service. In 1979, U.S. President Jimmy Carter honored her with an appointment to chair the decennial White House Conference on Aging, recognizing her vast experience and insights into societal issues. This significant honor, aimed at addressing the concerns and needs of older Americans, was regrettably withdrawn by the incoming Reagan administration, highlighting the political shifts of the era. Nevertheless, Sadie Tanner Mossell Alexander's legacy as a relentless advocate for justice, equality, and human rights remains indelible, inspiring generations to come.

Frequently Asked Questions about Sadie Tanner Mossell Alexander

Who was Sadie Tanner Mossell Alexander?

Sadie Tanner Mossell Alexander was a pioneering African American professional, civil rights activist, lawyer, and economist. She broke numerous racial and gender barriers in academia, law, and public service throughout the 20th century.

What were Sadie Tanner Mossell Alexander's key "firsts"?

She was the first African American to earn a Ph.D. in economics in the United States (1921), the first woman to graduate with a law degree from the University of Pennsylvania Law School (1927), and the first Black woman to practice law in Pennsylvania. She also served as the first national president of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

What significant contributions did she make to civil rights?

Her contributions were extensive. She served on President Harry S. Truman's groundbreaking President's Committee on Civil Rights, was a long-standing member of the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations, and was a founding member of the Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights Under Law. She and her husband, Raymond Pace Alexander, were also prominent civil rights advocates in Philadelphia and nationally.

What was her academic background?

She earned a Ph.D. in economics from the University of Pennsylvania in 1921 and later a law degree from the University of Pennsylvania Law School in 1927. Her doctoral dissertation focused on "The Standard of Living Among One Hundred Negro Families in Philadelphia."

What was her connection to the White House?

She was appointed by President Harry S. Truman to his President's Committee on Civil Rights in 1946. Later, in 1979, President Jimmy Carter appointed her to chair the decennial White House Conference on Aging, an appointment later rescinded by the Reagan administration.