Willie Barrow

Willie Barrow (1924-2015), also known as "The High Priestess of Protest," was a prominent American civil rights activist, minister, and community organizer. She dedicated her life to fighting for social justice, equality, and economic opportunity for African Americans and other marginalized communities.

Barrow began her activism in the 1940s with the Congress of Racial Equality (CORE), participating in lunch counter sit-ins and other forms of nonviolent direct action against segregation. She later became deeply involved with Operation Breadbasket (later Operation PUSH), founded by Jesse Jackson, where she played a crucial role in negotiating agreements with businesses to provide jobs and economic opportunities for Black communities. She rose to the position of national executive director of Operation PUSH and eventually served as chairwoman emeritus of the organization, renamed Rainbow/PUSH Coalition.

Barrow was a powerful voice in the civil rights movement and a tireless advocate for nonviolent social change. She organized numerous marches, demonstrations, and voter registration drives. She was a mentor to countless young activists and a respected leader within the Black community. She was known for her powerful oratory skills and her unwavering commitment to justice.

Her work extended beyond civil rights to include issues such as poverty, housing, education, and healthcare. She received numerous awards and honors for her activism, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2013. Willie Barrow's legacy continues to inspire those working for social justice today.