In Memoriam
Ella Jenkins: The First Lady of Children’s Music
Her journey as a musical pioneer and educator is a testament to the power of song and cultural representation in education.
When you think of children’s music, she may not be the first name that comes to mind, — but it should be. Known as the “First Lady of Children’s Music,” Ella Jenkins devoted her life not only to music but also to empowering and educating young people through songs that celebrated cultural diversity and justice.
Jenkins passed away last week at the age of 100, leaving behind a legacy that extended far beyond her albums and TV appearances. Her life’s work embodies values every Black child should know: resilience, pride, and the belief that music can inspire change.
Who Was Ella Jenkins?
Born on August 6, 1924, in St. Louis, Missouri, during the Jim Crow Era, Jenkins grew up in a racially segregated Chicago, which propelled her drive for equality. In her late teens, she joined an interracial high school organization called the Funference, a group created to provide a platform for students from diverse backgrounds to discuss social issues, culture, and community. Her involvement in the organization would play a significant role…
