Throughout history, courageous individuals have paved the way for social justice and equality. Among them, Myrlie Evers-Williams stands as a beacon of resilience, leadership, and activism. Best known as the widow of civil rights martyr Medgar Evers, she transformed personal tragedy into a lifelong commitment to justice, eventually becoming the first female chairperson of the NAACP. Her unwavering dedication has left an indelible mark on the fight for racial equality in America.
Born on March 17, 1933, in Vicksburg, Mississippi, Myrlie Louise Beasley grew up in the segregated South, where racial injustices were a daily reality. She attended Alcorn A&M College (now Alcorn State University), where she met Medgar Evers, a fellow student deeply committed to civil rights. The two married in 1951, forming a partnership that would become instrumental in the movement for African American equality.
As Medgar Evers rose to prominence as the NAACP’s Mississippi field secretary, Myrlie worked alongside him, assisting in voter registration drives and fighting against racial discrimination. Their activism made them targets of white supremacists, and their family faced constant threats. On June 12, 1963, tragedy struck when Medgar Evers was assassinated in front of their home.
Despite overwhelming grief, Myrlie Evers-Williams refused to be silenced. She tirelessly sought justice for her husband’s murder, enduring two mistrials in 1964 due to all-white juries refusing to convict Byron De La Beckwith, the white supremacist responsible for the crime.
Rather than retreat from public life, Myrlie relocated to California, where she continued her activism. She earned a degree from Pomona College and later worked in corporate America, proving her strength and adaptability. Her dedication to her husband's legacy and civil rights never wavered. After three decades of perseverance, Beckwith was finally convicted in 1994, thanks in part to Myrlie's advocacy.
Myrlie Evers-Williams' impact on civil rights extended far beyond seeking justice for Medgar. In 1995, she made history by becoming the first woman to chair the NAACP. At the time, the organization was struggling with financial instability and internal challenges. Under her leadership, the NAACP regained strength and credibility, paving the way for continued progress in racial justice.
Beyond her work with the NAACP, Myrlie is an accomplished author, having written For Us, the Living, a memoir about Medgar Evers, and Watch Me Fly: What I Learned on the Way to Becoming the Woman I Was Meant to Be, chronicling her own journey. Her influence extends to public speaking, activism, and mentoring the next generation of civil rights leaders.
In 2013, she was honored with the prestigious role of delivering the invocation at President Barack Obama’s second inauguration, becoming the first woman and layperson to do so—a testament to her remarkable influence.
Now in her 90s, Myrlie Evers-Williams continues to be an outspoken advocate for racial justice, equality, and education. Her work has inspired countless individuals to take up the fight for civil rights, proving that resilience, courage, and unwavering dedication can create lasting change.
During Black History Month, her story serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made in the pursuit of justice and the ongoing struggle for equality. As we honor her contributions, we are reminded that the fight for civil rights is far from over—but thanks to pioneers like Myrlie Evers-Williams, progress continues.
Myrlie Evers-Williams embodies the strength, perseverance, and vision that define the civil rights movement. From the heartbreaking loss of her husband to becoming a trailblazing leader, she has never wavered in her commitment to justice. Her legacy is a call to action, urging us to remain vigilant in the fight for equality.
This Black History Month, let us celebrate and honor Myrlie Evers-Williams—a true icon of resilience and justice.