Dr. Edith Irby Jones shattered barriers in medicine, earning her place in history as the first African American to graduate from the University of Arkansas School of Medicine and the first woman to serve as president of the National Medical Association (NMA).
Her groundbreaking achievements not only redefined possibilities for African Americans and women in medicine but also established her as a lifelong advocate for underserved communities.
A Journey Against the Odds
In a candid video reflecting on her experiences, Dr. Jones shared the challenges she faced as a trailblazer. When she applied to medical school, it never occurred to her that race could be an obstacle.
Despite the oppressive segregation laws of the time, which prohibited Black and white students from dining or using the same facilities, Dr. Jones persevered, choosing the University of Arkansas because its $500 tuition was affordable.
While her peers and faculty often maintained a cold silence, the kitchen staff offered a silent show of support, placing fresh flowers on her table daily.
“No words were spoken, but their gestures spoke volumes,” Dr. Jones recalled.
Commitment to Underserved Communities
Dr. Jones dedicated her medical career to Houston’s Third Ward, where she could serve patients unable to afford care elsewhere.
“I see people who are ashamed to say, ‘I don’t have any money, but I’m sick,'” she said. Her passion for providing care to those often overlooked by the healthcare system fueled her life’s work.
As the first woman elected president of the National Medical Association, Dr. Jones championed equity and access in healthcare, advocating for systemic change while inspiring the next generation of medical professionals.
Dr. Jones’s unwavering commitment to social justice and healthcare access made her a pioneer not just in medicine, but also in community advocacy.
She passed away at 91 in July 2019.
Her inspiring story lends credence to the power of resilience and the importance of representation in breaking down barriers and muting stereotypes
