A Journey of Resilience, Excellence, and Global Impact

At our recent club meeting, we were honored to have a truly moving presentation by our very own Dr. Christine Warren. She brought to life the extraordinary story of Dr. Anna Julia Haywood Cooper, a woman whose life journey serves as a powerful reminder of the Rotary spirit of perseverance and service.

Breaking Barriers from the Start

Born into slavery in 1858, Dr. Cooper defied every racial and gender barrier of her time to become a titan of education and civil rights. Her achievements were not just remarkable for her era—they remain awe-inspiring today:

* 📚 Academic Powerhouse: Despite systemic obstacles, she excelled in Mathematics and Latin, proving her intellectual prowess early on.

* 🌍 Global Achievement at 65: At an age when many are looking toward retirement, Dr. Cooper earned her PhD in History from the University of Paris (Sorbonne).

* ⚖️ A Voice for Change: She was a fierce advocate for the education of Black women, famously challenging societal norms and fighting for equal rights.

A Quote for the Ages: The Passport Connection

Perhaps the most surprising fact Dr. Warren shared is that Dr. Cooper’s legacy travels with millions of Americans every day. If you open a United States Passport to the very last page, you will find her words. She is the only woman—and the only Black woman—featured in the passport with this powerful quote:

"The cause of freedom is not the cause of a race or a sex, a party or a class — it is the cause of humankind, the very birthright of humanity."

Inspiration for Our Community

Dr. Cooper’s legacy reminds us that it is never too late to pursue our dreams or to stand up for what is right. We are incredibly proud to have members like Dr. Warren who keep these vital histories alive and inspire our club to continue our mission of Service Above Self.

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