North Philadelphia’s York House retirement community is home to a woman who lived through a century of history — and cast a historic vote on Tuesday’s Election Day by voting for the first Black female presidential candidate, Vice President Kamala Harris.
As the doors to basic civil rights opened, Lear Green was born in August 1923 in Beaufort, South Carolina, during the Jim Crow era, when voter suppression tactics kept black women from voting.
It wasn’t until the Voting Rights Act of 1965 was passed that Green – when she was 42 years old – could vote.
“We were raised and taught what to do and what not to do,” Green said. “We didn’t cross the border because it was slavery time. And then we had no choice to do what we had to do.”
But today, Green is making her choice.
“This day means a lot to me,” she said.
Surrounded by her community, the 101-year-old prepared to vote for the vice president.
“She’s one of us,” Green said. “And she’s for us.”
Others witnessed history in motion.
“I’m very emotional for my aunt,” said Deshawnda Williams, Green’s great-niece. “She is 101 years old and she can vote in this capacity like this. It is a historic moment. And I think it’s refreshing, it’s exciting. And it’s also nerve-wracking because you don’t know what the outcome is, but we pray for the best.”
“To say what she means to her, to cast a vote for an African-American woman, it brings tears to everyone’s eyes,” said Rep. Darisha Parker.
The fulfillment of this civic duty was celebrated with a party.
“Oh my god, I’m stunned,” Green said. “I would say to this little girl, do what God has put on your heart, treat them well. Love them like he loves us.”
Green cast her vote for a future she could once only dream of.
