MS_0057 - Jesse Mccray Jr. Collection

Location: AC.3.A.1.3.1 - AC.3.A.1.3.5

Jesse J. McCrary Jr. (1937–2007) was a pioneering lawyer, civil rights activist, and public official from Florida. Born in Blitchton, Florida, he earned his law degree from Florida A&M University, where he was also active in organizing civil rights sit-ins.

In 1978, McCrary made history when he was appointed Florida’s Secretary of State, becoming the first African American to hold a Florida Cabinet position since Reconstruction. He also broke barriers as one of the first Black attorneys from a southern state to argue a case before the U.S. Supreme Court.

Throughout his career, McCrary was a strong advocate for civil rights and equality, leaving a lasting legacy as a trailblazer in law and public service in Florida.

https://myfloridahistory.org/date-in-history/july-19-1978/jesse-j-mccrary-jr

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