Warrior for Justice

Description:

"George Washington Eames, Jr., was the president of the Baton Rouge, LA branch of the NAACP from 1980-1995. He led the desegregation of LSU athletics, he developed baseball programs for inner city youth and led school and civic improvements in the capital city. He worked for improvements at Southern University and for ADA provisions throughout the community. The biography, told by his widow, who is white, shares the life of this courageous wheelchair-bound leader who overcame many personal obstacles. Foreword by LSU Coach Dale Brown, retired, a personal friend"--Provided by publisher. "In this dual biography and autobiography, author Kathy Andre-Eames celebrates the life of her husband by highlighting his numerous accomplishments. George Washington Eames Jr. worked with the Baton Rouge branch of the NAACP for almost thirty years and served as president for fifteen of those. He worked within the system to desegregate the Louisiana State University athletic department, helping coach Dale Brown recruit black players and coaches. Eames' efforts at integration and equality continued, focusing on the city's police and fire departments, public transportation, recreation and parks, and, even, the penal system. He also worked with the American Disability Association to force universities, public areas, and other facilities to comply with ADA standards. Although considered a radical at the time, Andre-Eames supported her husband in all of his endeavors toward social justice. A couple burdened by inequality and oppression, but bound by determination and love, the unlikely romance of Kathy and George affected the lives of so many. Although their family connections were at times tried and stretched to the breaking point, their relationship remained steadfast. Their story reminds us all that one person can accomplish a great many things, but two together, united by love, can impact the world in remarkable ways"--From publisher's website.

subjects: African American civil rights workers,  Race relations,  National Association for the Advancement of Colored People,  Civil rights,  National Association for the Advancement of Colored People. Baton Rouge Branch,  Interracial marriage,  African Americans with disabilities,  Civic leaders,  Civil rights workers,  African Americans,  Biography,  History,  African americans, civil rights,  African americans, biography,  United states, race relations,  Louisiana, biography

People: Kathy Andre-Eames (1946-),  George Eames (1933-2012)

Places: Baton Rouge,  Louisiana,  Baton Rouge (La.)

Times: 20th century