THE VFA PIONEER HISTORIES PROJECT

Sister Margaret Ellen Traxler, SSND

March 11, 1924 – February 12, 2002

“Just because I took a vow of obedience, doesn’t mean that I can’t say what I think.”

Devoting herself to advocacy on behalf of interracial justice and the rights of women in society and in the Catholic Church. Prominent supporter of the Equal Rights Amendment with her lobbying group, National Coalition of American Nuns. One of 26 Religious Sisters who signed their names to an advertisement in The New York Times entitled “A Catholic Statement on Pluralism and Abortion,” 1984. Founder of the Institute for Women Today, a Christian–Jewish–Protestant coalition to reach out to troubled women. Opened Sister House on Chicago’s west side to aid women coming out of prison. Established Maria Shelter for abused women and children and Casa Notre Dame for older homeless women. Founded Margaret’s Village, 1974.