Septima Poinsette Clark

Abstract Chapter 5 centers Septima Poinsette Clark’s educational activism and innovation during and long before the civil rights movement. Illustrated in her collection of published and unpublished writings is the intersection of faith, teaching, and activism. Clark demonstrated this intersection through her resourceful method of education, that is, her improvisational pedagogy. Chapter 5 gives insight into Clark’s passion for activism, highlighting the effects of her experiences with classism and colorism, as well as her early career as a teacher. Most importantly, it describes the journey of Clark’s exposure to leadership within her church to her participation in a myriad of activist organizations, including the NAACP, South Carolina’s Federation of Colored Women’s Club, and Palmetto State Teachers Association. Finally, chapter 5 defines Clark’s pedagogy as one that is communal, student centered, and aimed toward love. Clark accomplished such a mission through citizenship training, leader cultivation, and faith in God.