Edith Irby Jones

American physician and civil rights activist

Edith Irby Jones (December 23, 1927 – July 15, 2019) was a pioneering American physician and civil rights activist. She was the first African American to be admitted to the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, and she became a prominent figure in the fight for racial equality in the medical field.

Early Life and Education

Edith Irby Jones

Edith Irby was born in Conway, Arkansas, to Robert Irby and Mattie Buice Irby. Her early life was marked by poverty and the challenges of growing up in the segregated South. Despite these obstacles, she excelled academically and was determined to pursue a career in medicine.

Jones attended Knoxville College in Tennessee, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree. Her academic excellence and determination led her to apply to the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. In 1948, she became the first African American student to be admitted to the institution, breaking racial barriers in higher education.

Medical Career

After graduating from medical school in 1952, Jones completed her internship at the University of Arkansas Medical Center. She then moved to Houston, Texas, where she established a successful private practice. Her work focused on providing medical care to underserved communities, and she became known for her compassionate approach to patient care.

Jones was also a founding member of the Association of Black Cardiologists and served as the first female president of the National Medical Association. Her leadership and advocacy for racial equality in medicine were instrumental in advancing opportunities for African American physicians.

Civil Rights Activism

Throughout her career, Jones was deeply involved in the civil rights movement. She worked alongside prominent leaders such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Ralph Abernathy, advocating for equal rights and opportunities for African Americans. Her activism extended beyond the medical field, as she participated in marches and demonstrations to challenge segregation and discrimination.

Jones's commitment to social justice was recognized with numerous awards and honors, including the American Medical Association's Dr. Nathan Davis Award for Outstanding Public Service.

Legacy

Edith Irby Jones's legacy is one of courage, determination, and service. She paved the way for future generations of African American medical professionals and inspired countless individuals through her dedication to equality and justice. Her contributions to medicine and civil rights continue to be celebrated and remembered.

Related Pages

• University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
• National Medical Association
• Civil rights movement