Tuesday, February 23, 2021

Elizabeth Jennings Graham, Black Educator Hall of Fame - Philly's 7th Ward

Elizabeth Jennings Graham, Black Educator Hall of Fame - Philly's 7th Ward
ELIZABETH JENNINGS GRAHAM, BLACK EDUCATOR HALL OF FAME



E’ry day this month, the Center for Black Educator Development, in partnership with Phillys7thWard.org, will highlight a Black Educator Hall of Famer.

But, don’t forget, e’ry month is Black History MonthFebruary is just the Blackest.

Today, our featured Black Educator is Elizabeth Jennings Graham.

#BlackEducatorsHoF #BlackTeacherPipeline

Elizabeth Jennings Graham was known as the first freedom rider. She was born in New York in 1827. Her father, Thomas Jennings, was an inventor and was the first Black person to hold a patent. He was also a founder of the historic Abyssinian Baptist Church. Her mother was a speech writer and member of a well-known literary society in New York. The family was well-to-do members of Black society in New York City.

After graduating from school, Graham became a teacher, teaching at the city’s private African Free School. The school, which was founded by abolitionists, was for children of enslaved people and free Black people. Graduates often became influential members of New York’s Black community, including Alexander Crummell and Henry Highland Garnet. Later, Graham opened a CONTINUE READING: Elizabeth Jennings Graham, Black Educator Hall of Fame - Philly's 7th Ward