Honoring Ethel B Coe's Passion and Service
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Ethel B. Coe remains a beloved and revered figure, celebrated for her remarkable contributions as an entertainer, educator, and unwavering champion of civil and human rights. Her influence went beyond the boundaries of Grand Rapids as she also worked in communities across the United States. From an early age, Ethel defied societal norms, courageously breaking down barriers and fostering connections that bridged racial divides. Today, her enduring legacy is honored through the prestigious Ethel Coe Humanities Giant Award, bestowed upon individuals who, like Ethel, demonstrate a profound dedication to the visual and performing arts. As a vocalist and actor, Ethel's undeniable talent captivated audiences, leaving them yearning for more with each performance. Beyond her artistic passions, Ethel was a community servant, tirelessly advocating for social justice and civil rights, leaving a permanent imprint in our community.
Ethel Lee was born in Falls Church, Virginia, in 1899. At the age of eight, she relocated to Grand Rapids, MI, to live with her aunt and uncle, Mrs. and Mr. Stanley Barnett. This move was prompted by her parents' desire for Ethel to receive a better education in a city with accessible public schools. When she moved here in 1908 or 1908 the African American populations was less than 1,000 and racial discrimination persisted. In a 1977 interview, Mrs. Coe reflected on her journey, recalling how she had left the racist Jim Crow South only to confront discrimination in the North. As a teenager attending South High School, Ethel's resilience and determination were evident when she won a civil rights case after being denied service at a local ice cream parlor. Throughout her life, Ethel remained steadfast in her commitment to challenging Jim Crow practices and advocating for civil rights.
In 1923, Ethel married Walter Coe, the first African American detective in the Grand Rapids Police Department, forming a dynamic duo dedicated to social and civil rights causes. Together, they navigated the intricacies of activism while also enriching the cultural landscape of their city through their musical talents and community involvement. From her involvement in literary and women's clubs to her leadership roles in organizations like the NAACP and the Urban League, she tirelessly advocated for racial equality and social justice. Her commitment extended to youth empowerment, as evidenced by her founding membership in the Junior Mother's Club and her contributions to the YWCA.
Ethel Coe's career as a soughtafter soloist and thespian not only showcased her remarkable talent but also served as a powerful vehicle for advocacy and entertainment. Her commanding presence on stage captivated audiences, while her resonant voice echoed with messages of hope, resilience, and social justice. Throughout the tumultuous decades of the 1930s and 1940s, amidst the hardships of America, Ethel remained active and used her performances to uplift spirits and ignite change.
Whether performing in churches, NAACP events, or literary and women's clubs, Ethel seem to have an unwavering commitment to her craft. Her roles as a stage actress at the Civic Theater and other venues in Grand Rapids during this era not only showcased her versatility but also provided a platform to confront societal injustices head-on. She performed in plays like "A Raisin in the Sun," "King of Hearts," and "Old Acquaintances." Her performances must have had lasting effects on the audiences.
But Ethel's contributions extended beyond the stage. She had an active role on the World Fellowship Committee and the Y-Teen Committee for the YWCA. In 1926, Ethel was one of the founding members of the Junior Mother's Club started to provide aid and educational work for parents of preschool children. In the 1930s, she took on the role of an educator, teaching classes in parliamentary law and empowering others with the tools to navigate complex systems of governance and advocacy. Her commitment to education and empowerment resonated deeply with her community, inspiring future leaders to follow in her footsteps.
In 1945, Ethel's influence reached new heights as she played a pivotal role in bringing the legendary Langston Hughes to Grand Rapids. This historic collaboration not only enriched the cultural fabric of the city but also solidified Ethel's legacy as a trailblazer and visionary in the arts.She was one of the first AfricanAmerican women to run for public office in Grand Rapids. In 1951 she ran for the Charter Commission. And in 1955, she ran for the Board of Education. Both of these bids for public office were unsuccessful; however, she was endorsed by many in the black community, and she paved the way for others.
While Mrs. Coe passed away in 1988, the Ethel Coe Humanities Giant Award lives on and celebrates individuals who, like Ethel, harness the power of the arts to inspire, educate, and advocate for positive change. By honoring Ethel's unparalleled contributions to the humanities, this award recognizes the transformative potential of artistic expression in shaping a more just and inclusive society. Ethel's legacy serves as a guiding light for future generations, reminding us of the enduring power of art, creativity, resilience, and passion in the face of adversity.
Sophia Brewer (M.L.I.S.) is Collection Development and Serials Librarian, Grand Rapids Community College; Co-President of the Greater Grand Rapids History Council; member of the Grand Rapids Study Club and serves on the Grand Rapids Public Library, Board of Library Commissioners (Elected 2016-2021). She is a former Head of Programs, Grand Rapids Public Library and former Branch Manager, Madison Square Branch, Grand Rapids Public Library Congresswoman
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