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.
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 1949, Helen Jackson Claytor was the first black woman to be elected board president of the Grand Rapids YWCA. Three board members resigned in protest, reflecting the race relations Helen was dedicated to change.
His first office was above the Burkhead and Collins Drug Store at the southeast corner of Monroe Avenue and Michigan Street, which is now known as the Medical Mile. Dr. Claytor received privileges at Saint Mary’s Hospital shortly after his arrival, becoming the first hospital-employed Black physician in Grand Rapids.