36 Facts About Constance Baker Motley

Early Life and Education

Constance Baker Motley was a trailblazer in the civil rights movement. Her early life and education laid the foundation for her remarkable career.

1. Born on September 14, 1921, in New Haven, Connecticut, she was the ninth of twelve children.
2. Her parents were immigrants from the Caribbean island of Nevis.
3. She attended Hillhouse High School, where she excelled academically.
4. Motley earned a scholarship to Fisk University but transferred to New York University, graduating with a degree in economics in 1943.
5. She then attended Columbia Law School, where she received her law degree in 1946.

Legal Career and Civil Rights Work

Motley's legal career was marked by significant contributions to the civil rights movement. She worked on landmark cases that changed the course of American history.

6. She joined the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund in 1945.
7. Motley was the first African American woman to argue a case before the U.S. Supreme Court.
8. She played a crucial role in the Brown v. Board of Education case, which ended racial segregation in public schools.
9. Motley argued ten cases before the Supreme Court, winning nine of them.
10. She was instrumental in the desegregation of the University of Georgia, representing Charlayne Hunter and Hamilton Holmes.

Political Career

Motley's influence extended beyond the courtroom. She made history in the political arena as well.

11. In 1964, she became the first African American woman elected to the New York State Senate.
12. She was the first woman to serve as Manhattan Borough President, a position she held from 1965 to 1966.
13. Motley was appointed to the federal judiciary by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1966.
14. She became the first African American woman to serve as a federal judge.
15. Motley served as Chief Judge of the Southern District of New York from 1982 to 1986.

Personal Life and Legacy

Motley's personal life and legacy continue to inspire future generations. Her achievements paved the way for many who followed.

16. She married Joel Wilson Motley Jr. in 1946, and they had one son, Joel Wilson Motley III.
17. Motley received numerous honorary degrees from prestigious institutions, including Harvard University and Princeton University.
18. She was awarded the Presidential Citizens Medal by President Bill Clinton in 2001.
19. Motley was inducted into the National Women's Hall of Fame in 1993.
20. Her autobiography, "Equal Justice Under Law," was published in 1998.

Impact on Society

Motley's work had a profound impact on society, influencing civil rights, education, and the legal profession.

21. She mentored many young lawyers, including future Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall.
22. Motley's efforts helped to dismantle Jim Crow laws across the South.
23. She was a key figure in the fight for gender equality, advocating for women's rights in the workplace.
24. Motley played a significant role in the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
25. Her legal strategies are still studied in law schools across the country.

Honors and Recognitions

Throughout her life, Motley received numerous honors and recognitions for her contributions to civil rights and the legal profession.

26. She was the recipient of the Spingarn Medal from the NAACP in 2003.
27. Motley was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal posthumously in 2006.
28. She was named one of the "100 Most Influential Lawyers in America" by the National Law Journal.
29. Motley was honored with a commemorative stamp by the U.S. Postal Service in 2020.
30. Her name is inscribed on the Civil Rights Memorial in Montgomery, Alabama.

Continuing Influence

Motley's influence continues to be felt today, as her work inspires ongoing efforts for equality and justice.

31. The Constance Baker Motley National Student Writing Competition encourages young writers to explore civil rights issues.
32. The Constance Baker Motley Fellowship in Law and Social Justice supports law students committed to social justice.
33. Her legacy is celebrated annually on Constance Baker Motley Day in New York City.
34. The Constance Baker Motley Award for Empowerment honors individuals who have made significant contributions to civil rights.
35. Her life and work are frequently featured in documentaries and educational programs.
36. Motley's papers and personal archives are preserved at Columbia University, providing valuable resources for researchers and historians.

Celebrating Constance Baker Motley's Legacy

Constance Baker Motley left an indelible mark on American history. Her work as a civil rights activist, lawyer, and judge paved the way for countless others. From her role in landmark cases like Brown v. Board of Education to becoming the first African American woman appointed to the federal judiciary, her achievements are monumental. Motley's dedication to equality and justice continues to inspire new generations. Her story reminds us that one person's courage can lead to significant societal change. By understanding her contributions, we honor her legacy and recognize the ongoing struggle for civil rights. Let's keep her spirit alive by advocating for fairness and equality in our communities. Constance Baker Motley’s life is a testament to the power of perseverance and the impact one individual can have on the world.