Iowa Females You Should Remember: Viola Gibson
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Editor’s Note: Four weeks ago, we announced four new Iowa Women’s Hall of Fame inductees. We wanted to do a little extra to celebrate their accomplishments, so we are showcasing the nomination information for one honoree each week as an Iowa Females You Should Know or Remember. This is the final week in the series.
WHO SHE IS
Viola Gibson, now deceased, changed the Cedar Rapids community by promoting human rights and fostering peace.
GIbson was born in Bethel Springs, Tenn., in 1905. After her mother’s death, when Viola was 9, the family moved to Cedar Rapids. In Cedar Rapids, Viola left school when she was 14 to work to help support the family, later returning to complete high school several years later. After she married and became the mother of six children, Gibson pursued a nursing degree to become a practical nurse and a Red Cross Home Nursing instructor. Viola also studied at the Moody Bible Institute in Chicago and was ordained as a minister in 1954 by the board of the Christ Sanctified Holiness Church. Viola later became the pastor and served in this capacity for more than 20 years, where she served the Cedar Rapids community in numerous roles.
WHAT SHE ACCOMPLISHED
“One summer day in 1942, Viola’s nephew was denied entry to the Ellis Park pool because of his race. Gibson protested the fact that her nephew was unable to enter the pool. On June 17, 1942, Gibson started the local chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). After her successful protest, the rules were changed to allow African-Americans entrance to the pool.” — Stephanie Wenclawski, daughter of nominator
Her many accomplishments include founding the Cedar Rapids branch of the NAACP in 1942; setting up the first adult evening classes on black history within the state of Iowa; and pushing for the teaching of African-American history in the Cedar Rapids community schools. She served on numerous boards and committees and fulfilled other community roles. She also received several awards for her civic involvement. In 1970, Viola Gibson Park was dedicated, and in 2002 the Cedar Rapids Community School District opened the Viola Gibson School in her honor.
WHY YOU SHOULD REMEMBER HER
Viola Gibson’s faith and her lifelong work in the church gave purpose and determination to the numerous civic and community activities she took part in. This community involvement, spanning more than 70 years, made her a true champion in the area of human and civil rights for all.
Other features on 2016 Iowa Women’s Hall of Fame inductees:
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