Dorothy Height

Date of Birth: March 24, 1912

Zodiac Sign: Aries

Date of Death: April 20, 2010

Biography

Dorothy Irene Height was a prominent American civil rights and women’s rights activist who dedicated her life to fighting for equality and social justice. Born on March 24, 1912, in Richmond, Virginia, Height moved with her family to Rankin, Pennsylvania, at a young age. She showed early promise as a student and was awarded a scholarship to Barnard College, where she was initially denied admission due to a racial quota. She eventually attended New York University, earning a bachelor’s degree in education and a master’s degree in psychology. Height began her career as a social worker but soon became deeply involved in the civil rights movement. In the 1930s, she joined the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) and later became its president, serving from 1957 to 1997. During her tenure, she worked closely with other civil rights leaders, including Martin Luther King Jr., and played a significant role in organizing the 1963 March on Washington. Height was also a strong advocate for women’s rights and worked tirelessly to address issues such as unemployment, illiteracy, and voter turnout among African American women. Her efforts earned her numerous accolades, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1994 and the Congressional Gold Medal in 2004. Dorothy Height passed away on April 20, 2010, leaving behind a legacy of activism and advocacy that continues to inspire future generations.

5 Interesting Facts about Dorothy Height

1. Dorothy Height was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1994 and the Congressional Gold Medal in 2004.

2. She was a key organizer of the 1963 March on Washington and stood on the platform when Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his famous “I Have a Dream” speech.

3. Height served as the president of the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) for 40 years, from 1957 to 1997.

4. Despite being initially denied admission to Barnard College due to a racial quota, she went on to earn her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from New York University.

5. Height was an influential advisor to several U.S. presidents, including Dwight D. Eisenhower, Lyndon B. Johnson, and Barack Obama.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Dorothy Height

1. “Greatness is not measured by what a man or woman accomplishes, but by the opposition he or she has overcome to reach his goals.”

2. “We hold in our hands the power to shape not only our own but the nation’s future.”

3. “We have to improve life, not just for those who have the most skills and those who know how to manipulate the system. But also for those who often have so much to give but never get the opportunity.”

4. “Without community service, we would not have a strong quality of life. It’s important to the person who serves as well as the recipient.”

5. “The Black family of the future will foster our liberation, enhance our self-esteem, and shape our ideas and goals.”