Violet King Henry: Reflecting on the Legacy of Canada’s Legal Pioneer

Violet King Henry: A Trailblazer in Canadian Law

A Celebratory Google Doodle

Today, Google honours the 94th birthday of an extraordinary woman who left an indelible mark on Canadian history and law – Violet King Henry, the first Black female lawyer in Canada. Illustrated by guest artist Shanti Rittgers, this Google Doodle celebrates Violet King Henry’s life and accomplishments, reminding us of her trailblazing journey through the legal profession and her enduring legacy of perseverance.

Pioneering Spirit and Early Years

Violet King Henry was born on October 18, 1929, in Calgary, Alberta. From an early age, she showed great promise as a well-rounded student, excelling academically and actively participating in various extracurricular activities. Her determination to pursue a legal career was evident even in her high school yearbook caption, where she boldly announced her ambitions.

In 1950, she enrolled in the Faculty of Law at the University of Alberta, where she continued to excel academically while also teaching piano lessons and taking on leadership roles in feminist organizations such as the Blue Stocking Club and the Students’ Union. Her exceptional dedication and contributions to the university earned her an executive “A” gold ring in 1952, recognizing her remarkable efforts.

Achieving Firsts in Canada

In 1953, Violet King Henry became the first Black Canadian to earn a law degree from the University of Alberta. This groundbreaking achievement not only marked a significant milestone in Canadian legal history but also shattered barriers for Black individuals aspiring to pursue careers in law.

As an articled student (intern), she worked on five major criminal trials in her first year at a Calgary law practice. In 1954, when she was admitted to the Alberta Bar, she became the first Black woman to practice law in Canada, adding another illustrious “first” to her long list of achievements.

Contributions and Legacy

After her time in Alberta, Violet King Henry made significant contributions on both sides of the border. Settling in Chicago, she broke new ground by becoming the first Black woman, as well as the first woman of any race, to hold an executive position in the Organizational Development Group of the U.S. National Council of YMCA.

Returning to Canada, King Henry worked in the federal Citizenship and Immigration department, assisting recent immigrants in finding employment and settling in their new country. Her dedication to community outreach and support continued when she relocated to the United States, where she served as the Executive Director of the YMCA’s Community Branch in Newark, New Jersey, helping Black job seekers find employment.

Violet King Henry’s commitment to breaking barriers and championing social progress is evident in her inspirational quote: “So I went ahead.” She refused to let the discouragement she faced deter her from pursuing a legal career, and throughout her life, she shattered glass ceilings, empowering women of color to pursue their aspirations despite opposition.

Conclusion: A Trailblazer Remembered

On the occasion of her 94th birthday, we celebrate Violet King Henry’s extraordinary life and achievements. Her unwavering determination, resilience, and passion for justice continue to inspire generations of Canadians. Violet King Henry’s legacy in the legal profession serves as a reminder that diversity and representation are vital in creating a truly equitable society.

As we remember Violet King Henry, let us not only honor her courage and trailblazing spirit but also take her example as a call to action. We must continue working towards a more inclusive and diverse legal profession, breaking down barriers that still persist and opening doors for aspiring lawyers from all backgrounds. It is through collective efforts that we can truly achieve justice for all.