Born: 1910 (Alton, Iowa)
Died: 2004
Biography:
Mildred McWilliams Millie Jeffrey (December 29, 1910 – March 24, 2004) was an American political and social activist who played a crucial role in various reform movements, including labor reforms, women’s rights, and civil rights. Known for her dedication and relentless pursuit of justice, Jeffrey left an indelible mark on American history.
Mildred Jeffrey was born on December 29, 1910, in Alton, Iowa. Her mother, Bertha McWilliams, was a remarkable woman who became Iowa’s first female registered pharmacist in 1908 and owned a drugstore in Alton and later in Minneapolis. Growing up in a family of seven children, Mildred was influenced by her mother’s strong work ethic and commitment to serving others.
Jeffrey attended the University of Minnesota as an undergraduate and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in psychology in 1932. It was during her time in college that she became involved in the socialist and progressive movements. Inspired by her African-American classmate, Mildred and her friend worked together to integrate restaurants in Minneapolis, an endeavor that showcased her early commitment to equality and justice.
In 1934, Jeffrey furthered her education by earning a master’s degree in social economy and social research from Bryn Mawr College. Armed with her academic background, she embarked on a career as a union organizer. In 1935, Mildred joined the Amalgamated Clothing Workers of America in Philadelphia, where she met her future husband, Homer Newman Jeffrey, who was also a union organizer. The couple worked tirelessly to unionize textile factories in the South and East, fighting for fair working conditions and labor rights.
During World War II, Mildred and her husband moved to Washington, D.C., where they became consultants for the War Labor Board. It was in the nation’s capital that they formed close relationships with influential labor leaders, including Walter and Victor Reuther of the United Auto Workers. In 1944, Mildred relocated to Detroit after being offered the position of head of the U.A.W.’s new Women’s Bureau, making her the first woman to lead a department within the U.A.W.
Following the end of the war, many women who had filled vital roles in factories were laid off due to the return of male veterans. In response to this mass layoff, Jeffrey organized the U.A.W.’s first women’s conference, advocating for the rights and fair treatment of women in the workforce. Her efforts were instrumental in improving working conditions and securing better pay for female workers.
Throughout her career, Mildred Jeffrey held numerous leadership positions within the U.A.W. From running the union’s radio station to directing its community relations department and heading the consumer affairs department, Jeffrey remained a passionate advocate for workers’ rights and social justice. She also played an active role in politics, managing Senator Robert F. Kennedy’s Michigan state presidential campaign in 1968 and working on the campaign of Senator John F. Kennedy earlier in her career.
In 1971, Jeffrey became a founding member of the National Women’s Political Caucus, an organization that fought for gender equality and championed causes such as the ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment, child care, and equal pay legislation. She continued her involvement in various progressive groups, including the Coalition of Labor Union Women, Emily’s List, Americans for Democratic Action, the National Abortion Rights League, the American Civil Liberties Union, and the Democratic Socialists of America.
Mildred Jeffrey dedicated her life to fighting for gender equality, workers’ rights, and social justice. Her tireless efforts helped shape the progressive movement and paved the way for future generations of activists. Her commitment to equality, fairness, and the empowerment of women remains a lasting inspiration.
Awards:
– Mildred Jeffrey received numerous awards and recognitions for her lifelong activism and advocacy work. Some of these include:
– The Eugene V. Debs Foundation Outstanding American Award
– The Mother Jones Foundation Award for Labor Leadership
– The United Autoworkers (U.A.W.) Women’s Advocacy Award
– The Women of Vision Award from the Women’s Institute for Freedom of the Press
Mildred Jeffrey’s contributions to labor reforms, women’s rights, and civil rights have left an indelible mark on American society, making her a truly remarkable figure in women’s history.