Allie B. Latimer

Allie B. Latimer is an African American woman who is also known for being a part of the “second wave of feminist pioneers” according to Veteran Feminist of America. One of the significant roles she took in was to seek equal opportunity for woman in the work place. She did this through the founding and development of her organization Federal Employed Women (FEW). According to Women of the Hall, “FEW’s many accomplishments and activities have impacted the federal workplace and contributed to improved working conditions for all.” Her key role in this movement is extremely important because it has set the foundation for woman in the federal workplace today by being the culprit of the creation of many given rights we hold today.


One of the most amazing things about this woman is that not only has she gone through all levels of education but she is also the “first African American and woman to serve as General Counsel of a major federal agency…and attain the GS-18 salary level.” Most responses about her accomplishments have been, for example in an article published in The Chicago Defender in 1973 stated that Latimer “demonstrated professional competence” as well as having “distinguished service to the agency”. An article in the Washington Post writes that GSA is now becoming the lead agency in the upward mobility program for women. This has definitely been a part of a trend of emerging high ranking working woman.


Latimer is still alive today and is still dedicating her life to the agency and many other organizations. She has acquired several awards throughout her life; such prestigious awards include the GSA Administrator’s Exceptional Service Award. She continues to be involved in her community and her church.