Harriett Woods (1927–2007,) born Ruth Harriett Friedman, was an American politician, journalist, and activist who became Missouri’s first female lieutenant governor and a leading advocate for women in politics.
Born in Cleveland, Ohio, she earned a B.A. in philosophy from the University of Michigan, where she was the first woman to serve as Senior Editor of The Michigan Daily. She later worked as a television producer and journalist, covering civil rights, child welfare, and women’s rights.
Woods entered politics in 1967, serving on the University City Council before joining the Missouri Highway Commission (1974.) She was elected to the Missouri State Senate (1976–84,) becoming its second female member. In 1982, she ran for the U.S. Senate, narrowly losing to John Danforth. In 1984, she was elected Missouri’s Lieutenant Governor, the first woman to hold statewide office. She later became president of the National Women’s Political Caucus, promoting women’s representation in government.
Her Stepping Up to Power: The Political Journey of American Women (2000) examines the challenges women face in politics and the progress toward gender equality in leadership.
More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by Harriett Woods
You can stand tall without standing on someone. You can be a victor without having victims.
—Harriett Woods
Topics: Winners, Winning, Integrity
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