Floyd was also an influential force in Grand Rapids’ social scene. Along with John Shakelford, and Milo Brown, the three entrepreneurs banded together to secure Roma Hall located on the corner of Franklin and Division as the location for Club Indigo, the first Black nightclub in Grand Rapids.
In 1951, Ethel’s social activism led her to run for the Grand Rapids Charter Commission, becoming one of the first two Black women to ever run for public office in the city. Coe ran again in 1955, but this time for the Board of Education. Although she lost both races, Coe paved the way for Grand Rapids women in politics and social activism.
In 1951, Ethel’s social activism led her to run for the Grand Rapids Charter Commission, becoming one of the first two Black women to ever run for public office in the city. Coe ran again in 1955, but this time for the Board of Education. Although she lost both races, Coe paved the way for Grand Rapids women in politics and social activism.