One of the first Black women to register to vote in Atlanta celebrates 100th birthday

Stay connected via Google News

Follow us for the latest updates from Unheard Voices

A history-making Atlanta woman is celebrating another huge milestone this month, her 100th birthday!

Lucille Anderson was born on December 1, 1920, according to her family. She celebrated her birthday with a drive-through parade celebration on December 6 in Atlanta, reports Atlanta’s 11 Alive.

Affectionately called “Mama” or “Big Mama”, the matriarch of the Anderson family has lived through history.

According to her family, Anderson was one of the first Black women to register to vote in Atlanta back in the 1960s.

“The privilege to vote has been very important to her as far back as she can remember,” family member Patricia Campbell told 11 Alive.

“So naturally, when she received the flyer for voter registration from the Atlanta Negro Voters League, she would be sure to stand in line to be one of the first groups to register to vote.”

In 1964, Anderson registered to vote for the first time at the Fulton County Courthouse on Pryor Street. When she registered at the courthouse, she had to enter the building through the rear.

Voting continues to remain a priority to Anderson, Campbell said.

“Having lived for 10 decades, she wants to let others know how important voting is to achieve the justice we seek in our communities,” Campbell said.

Anderson has remained an inspiration to her family and others throughout her life.

“She is a living example of what Christianity looks like,” Campbell said. “Her life has inspired so many, and her inner strength and faith resonate in everything that she does.”

Happy Birthday!