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Susie Sunshine Lewis Fischer: A Trailblazing Woman in the Early 20th Century

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Susie Sunshine

by Lewis Fischer

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	611 KB
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Print length	:	34 pages

Susie Sunshine Lewis Fischer was a pioneering woman who made significant contributions to the fields of education, social work, and law in the early 20th century. She was a tireless advocate for women's rights and social justice, and her work helped to pave the way for future generations of women.

Early Life and Education

Susie Sunshine Lewis was born in Alpena, Michigan, on November 14, 1862. Her parents were both teachers, and she grew up in a home that valued education and social consciousness. Susie attended the University of Michigan, where she earned a degree in education in 1883. After graduating, she taught school in Michigan and Colorado before moving to Chicago in 1890.

Career in Education

In Chicago, Susie became involved in the social work movement. She worked with the Chicago Commons, a settlement house that provided services to the city's poor and working-class residents. In 1893, she founded the Chicago Free Kindergarten Association, which provided free kindergarten education to children from low-income families. Susie believed that education was essential for empowering people and breaking the cycle of poverty.

Social Work and Advocacy

In addition to her work in education, Susie was also a passionate advocate for women's rights and social justice. She was a member of the National Council of Women and the National Women's Suffrage Association. She also worked with the Hull House, a settlement house founded by Jane Addams, which provided a variety of social services to the city's immigrant population.

In 1905, Susie married Elmer Fischer, a lawyer and social reformer. Together, they worked to improve the lives of Chicago's poor and working-class residents. Susie served on the Chicago Juvenile Court Commission and the Illinois State Board of Public Welfare. She also helped to found the Juvenile Protective Association, which provided legal assistance to children in need.

Later Life and Legacy

Susie Sunshine Lewis Fischer continued to be active in social work and advocacy throughout her life. She was a delegate to the International Council of Women in 1925 and served on the board of the National Council of Jewish Women. She died in Chicago on December 25, 1948.

Susie Sunshine Lewis Fischer was a remarkable woman who made significant contributions to her community and to the nation. Her work in education, social work, and law helped to improve the lives of countless people. She was a true pioneer and an inspiration to future generations of women.

Susie Sunshine

by Lewis Fischer

4.6 out of 5