L.E. Bennett

L.E. Bennett (December 4, 1933 – July 30, 2015) was an activist in the Civil rights movement in the United States from the 1950s to the 1970s. Bennett's most notable role was his leadership of the Local#6131, of the Communications Workers of America. He began his career as a janitor with Southwestern Bell/AT&T but eventually became the president of the union. He made valuable contributions regarding workplace injustice, social injustice, and racism.

L.E. Bennett
Born(1933-12-04)December 4, 1933
Louise, Texas
DiedJuly 30, 2015(2015-07-30) (aged 81)
San Antonio, Texas
EducationSt. Marys University (BA)
Spouse
Essie L. Jones
​
(m. 1955)​

Early life and education

In 1960, Bennett attended St. Philips College where he graduated, with honors. In 1964, he attended St. Marys University, where he studied business. In 1992, he graduated with a Bachelor of Theology degree from Guadalupe Theological College. He received his master's degree in 1994 and was awarded an honorary Doctorate of Divinity in 1997.[1]

Career

Bennett was drafted into the Korean War as a U.S. Army soldier.[2] After being discharged from the army, Bennett found work as a custodian with Southwestern Bell. Over time, he was told by human resources that he wouldn't be able to apply for a better job due to racial discrimination.[1]

As a labor leader, Bennett integrated the organization and created opportunities for people of color. Bennett also assisted the community in voter registration and obtaining funds to rehabilitate homes.[3]

Bennett was ordained after completing training with his pastor, Rev. C.M. Graham of Mt. Calvary Baptist Church in San Antonio, TX, and in February 1989 gave his first official sermon. After his Doctor of Philosophy in Theology, he became Rev. Dr. L.E. Bennett in the late 1980s.[4]

Recognition

He received Political Education Award from the NAACP signed by Roy Wilkins, Rev. C.D. Owens, and W.C. Patton, as well as a certificate from from Wall of Tolerance signed by Rosa Parks.[5]

References
  1. "Funeral Program for Rev. Dr. L. E. Bennett, August 21, 2015". The Portal to Texas History. August 21, 2015.
  2. "What Does It Take? Rev. Dr. L.E. Bennett". Blackfacts.
  3. "Texas Civil Rights Leader Revealed in new Biography". WJHL.
  4. "The Texas Story Project: L.E. Bennett, Texas Civil Rights Activist | Bullock Texas State History Museum". www.thestoryoftexas.com.
  5. "Texas Civil Rights Leader Revealed in new Biography".
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