Fannie Lou Hamer

Fannie Lou Hamer
Hamer in 1971
Born	Fannie Lou Townsend (1917-10-06)October 6, 1917 Montgomery County, Mississippi, U.S.
Died	March 14, 1977(1977-03-14) (aged 59) Mound Bayou, Mississippi, U.S.
Burial place	Ruleville, Mississippi, U.S.
Organization(s)	National Women's Political Caucus Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee National Council of Negro Women
Known for	Civil rights leader
Title	Vice chairwoman of Freedom Democratic Party; Co-founder of National Women's Political Caucus
Political party	Freedom Democratic Party
Movement	Civil rights movement Women's rights
Spouse	Perry "Pap" Hamer
Children	2
Awards	Inductee of the National Women's Hall of Fame

Fannie Lou Hamer (/ˈheɪmər/; née Townsend; October 6, 1917 – March 14, 1977) was an influential American activist who fought for equal rights. Hamer protested for racial equality and reproductive rights in America. She is known for speaking for the African American group at an important national all-white meeting. Hamer was also a church singer. Her perseverance and rebellious spirit allowed her to help others, and make a long-lasting impact.