Dorothy Height was a presence in Washington -- often you'd see her hat before you saw her. In the 30 years that I've lived in the nation's capital, I've seen her at dozens of events, rallies, luncheons and meetings. Even in the past few years when her body was betraying her, she remained determined and fierce. She died today, yet another in a line of our esteemed elders who paved the way for us to be free, self-determining, strong men and women.
She was best known for her work in the civil rights movement, but I was equally impressed by her efforts on behalf of women -- to ensure child care, fight for better career opportunities, encourage us to walk alongside -- never behind -- our men. We seem to take so much for granted these days when so many choices and opportunities are available to us. It's easy to forget that women like Dorothy Height were born in a time when her life was claustrophobic and some choices unavailable to her on the basis of her skin color and gender. So much has changed for the generations that followed hers, and some of the credit goes to Ms. Height.
I will miss seeing her around DC and the one of two responses she always engendered: either a hushed, reverential, "That is Dorothy Height!" or "What is with that lady in the hat?" Her hats were sometimes impossibly large and fussy, on a scale that few others would choose to wear. But few others still alive today had the impact on our lives that she had. Rest in peace, Ms. Height, and I hope you spend eternity wearing a fabulous hat, and basking in the glow of a life lived well.
Marian Wright Edelman: Dr. Dorothy Height -- Extraordinary Leader, Lantern, and Role Model
To me Dr. Dorothy Height was a dearest friend, mentor, and role model. When she passed away on April 20 at age 98, we all lost a treasure, a wise counselor, and a rock we could always lean against for support in tough times.
Phaedra Ellis-Lamkins: Remembering Dr. Dorothy Height
This morning the world lost an unwavering champion of justice and freedom, when "the godmother of the Civil Rights Movement" passed away at the age of 98.
Lola Adesioye: Dr. Dorothy Height Dies: Where Are the Women in Black Leadership?
As the black community looks at the black agenda, we mustn't forget that women are part of that agenda and must continue to contribute to and be fully engaged in it.
Barbara R. Arnwine: Breaking the Glass Ceiling
Economic justice is not just a women's issue or a moral issue; it's clearly a legal one. As lawyers, we must promote opportunities and equity in the new economy; we must embrace change and not the historical precedence of gender inequities.
I thought about that, when I read of her passing. I think what made Dr. Height the unceasing worker for equality that she was is that she "got it." She understood the difference between justice and "just us."
So, thank you, Dorothy Height.