Embedded Files
By Chuankai Cheng
Mabel Ping-Hua Lee (1987-1966) was a Chinese immigrant who fought for women's rights in the United States throughout her life. She received education and a doctorate degree in the United States. Though the immigration laws during her time were discriminatory and it remained unclear if she finally gained the right of vote for herself or not, her activism certainly has empowered millions of women to have the rights they deserved.
Dr. Mabel Lee was born in 1897 in Guangzhou, China. She was awarded the Boxer Indemnity Scholarship at the age of 9 and moved to New York City, where she attended Erasmus Hall Academy in Brooklyn. At the age of 16, Lee had started to participate in women’s rights activism. On May 4, 1912, Lee rode on horseback and helped to lead a ten-thousand-attendee parade for women’s suffrage in New York City. The New York Times recognized her as “the symbol of the new era, when all women will be free and unhampered”.
In 1913, Lee started her undergraduate studies at Barnard College majoring in history and philosophy. Her activism was continued throughout her college career, as in 1914, she wrote an essay entitled “The Meaning of Woman Suffrage” calling for equal voting rights and social opportunities for females. In 1916, giving the speech themed “The Submerged Half”, she advocated for the education and civic participation of the Chinese women.In 1913, Lee started her undergraduate studies at Barnard College majoring in history and philosophy. Her activism was continued throughout her college career, as in 1914, she wrote an essay entitled “The Meaning of Woman Suffrage” calling for equal voting rights and social opportunities for females. In 1916, giving the speech themed “The Submerged Half”, she advocated for the education and civic participation of Chinese women.
After graduating from Barnard College, Lee continued her Master’s studies in educational administration at Columbia Teacher’s College. In 1921, at Columbia University, she became the first Chinese woman to get a PhD in economics. Her PhD research was published as a book entitled The Economic History of China: With Special Reference to Agriculture.
In addition to advocating for women’s rights, Lee contributed to the Chinese community in New York. After her graduation, she opened the Chinese Christian Center for health care, children care, vocational training and English tutoring. Lee passed away at the age of 70. It is unknown if Lee gained US citizenship and voted. However, her dedication to the female and Chinese community has benefited the people living in this country today.
Source:
Mabel Ping-Hua Lee (1897-1966) By Kerri Lee Alexander, NWHM Fellow | 2018-2020,
https://www.womenshistory.org/education-resources/biographies/mabel-ping-hua-lee#_ftn1
Mabel Ping-Hua Lee: How Chinese-American Women Helped Shape the Suffrage Movement. By Cathleen D. Cahill.
Page updated
Report abuse