Bringing The Quiet Legacy of Theodora Smiley Lacey to the Nation: A Call to Action

Join us in commemorating the extraordinary life and indelible legacy of Theodora Smiley Lacey, a titan of civil rights activism and educational innovation. Born in 1932 in Montgomery, Alabama, Mrs. Lacey bore witness to the injustices of segregation, igniting within her an unwavering commitment to fight for equality.

Mrs. Lacey has often been “in the room”, playing a pivotal role in challenging injustice, starting shortly after graduating from Alabama State University, when she became an active participant in the Montgomery Bus Boycott alongside her friends, Dr. King and Rosa Parks.

Theodora’s father served on the board of directors for the Dexter Avenue Baptist Church, during Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s tenure as pastor from 1954 - 1960. It was in the basement of that church where Dr. King launched the Montgomery Bus Boycott.

Throughout her life, Mrs. Lacey's influence extended far beyond mere participation. She conducted groundbreaking research with her husband Archie, shedding light on voter registration fraud in Alabama, which catalyzed legal victories for voting rights, including the Civil Rights Act of 1957.

Relocating to New Jersey, Mrs. Lacey continued her tireless advocacy. She spearheaded initiatives such as Teens Talk About Racism and co-founded the North East Community Organization, playing a pivotal role in integrating Teaneck Public Schools, making history as the first district in the nation to do so without a court order. Mrs. Lacey Joined the Fair Housing Council of Northern New Jersey, combating discriminatory housing practices.

As Co-chair of the county African-American Advisory Committee and the Bergen County Martin Luther King Jr. Monument Committee, Mrs. Lacey helped bring the life-size bronze statue of Dr. King to the campus of Fairleigh Dickinson University. The Theodora Smiley Lacey School, opened in Teaneck, New Jersey, in 2020, stands as a testament to her enduring commitment to education and equality.

Her efforts in advocacy and community leadership have garnered numerous accolades and honors from esteemed organizations. With a career spanning over 40 years in education, Mrs. Lacey's impact has been profound. 

Now, renowned artist Philip Smallwood has captured the essence of Mrs. Lacey in a portrait that beautifully reflects the embodiment of a life of service.

Join us in a push to amplify Mrs. Lacey's voice and preserve her place in history. Add your name to our petition advocating for the placement of her portrait in the Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History & Culture in DC. Together, let's ensure that the story of this quiet warrior for justice and equality resonates for generations to come. Sign the petition today and make a lasting impact!

***PLEASE NOTE***
Donations made through the Change.org website are designated for petition promotion to help solicit more signatures.

To support our cause and contribute directly to the success of the "A Life of Service" tour, please visit psmallwood.com/ALifeofService.

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