Alexis Herman, the first Black U.S. Secretary of Labor, passed away at 77. Appointed by President Bill Clinton in 1997, she had a distinguished career in social work and civil rights. Clinton expressed his sorrow at her loss, noting their long friendship. Current Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-Deremar called Herman a pioneer in strengthening the American workforce.
Born in Mobile, Alabama, in 1947, Herman grew up amid Jim Crow laws and was deeply influenced by the civil rights movement. She graduated from Xavier University in New Orleans and began her career advocating for women in the workplace, notably leading the Women’s Bureau of Labor under President Jimmy Carter in 1977.
Herman received bipartisan support during her confirmation as Labor Secretary. She emphasized the importance of dignity and safety for workers. Following her death, numerous civil rights groups and political leaders celebrated her legacy, highlighting her relentless advocacy for workers, government diversity, and engagement in politics. Her contributions to civil rights and women’s rights were noted as a significant part of her legacy.
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