Perform and Empower: Memorializing Elma Ina Lewis

An Introduction to the Project

Elma Lewis - or “Miss Lewis,” to those who knew her - was a Roxbury native, born to Barbadian immigrants.[1] She was an experienced performer, a dedicated educator, an inspiring activist, and a committed institution builder.[2] Over the course of her life, Lewis made significant contributions to the African American community throughout the Boston area. Her compelling advocacy and action created opportunities for children and adults to engage in arts and culture, fueling their pride in their heritage. She was honored by prestigious organizations for her efforts, as well, being awarded the Presidential Medal for Arts and a McArthur Genius Grant.[3] Her efforts to improve the lives, minds, opportunities, skills, and environments of African American Bostonians should be memorialized.
[1] “Elma Lewis,” National Center of Afro-American Artists, National Center of Afro-American Artists, 2021, https://ncaaa.org/welcome-to-the-ncaaa/elma-lewis/.
[2] Ibid.
[3] “Elma Lewis,” Boston Women’s Heritage Trail, Boston Women’s Heritage Trail, 2021, https://bwht.org/elma-lewis/.

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