THE VFA PIONEER HISTORIES PROJECT

Hon. Ethel Skyles Alexander

January 16, 1925 – September 10, 2016

“From 1950 I’ve worked, prayed and asked for this day.” – after hearing Barack Obama’s speech during the Democratic convention, 2008.

Served in the Illinois House of Representatives, 1979-1986. Appointed to the Illinois Senate in 1986. A founding member of the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus Foundation. Known for her work to strengthen laws against child pornography and legislation titled the “Rape Shield Law,” which protects rape victims from having their sexual reputation or past used against them during trial.