Keeping It Real: Jonathan
Jasper Wright, a black lawyer was born on this date in 1809. Wright
attended Lancaster University. Upon completing his legal studies, he
attempted to take the Pennsylvania bar, but he wasn't allowed, because
of his race. Wright later accepted a position in Beaufort to open a
school and teach the newly freed slaves. In addition to teaching at the
school, he taught the black citizens of
the community. Jonathan Wright lectured on legal and political matters
and gave legal advice on labor relations. After Congress passed the
Civil Rights Bill, Wright again petitioned the authorities in
Pennsylvania to allow him to take the bar. His request was granted and
he was admitted to the Bar on August 13, 1866. Upon taking the oath,
Wright became the first black man licensed to practice law in
Pennsylvania. Ya Dig?..
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