Mississippi Civil Rights activist Ineva May Pittman has passed away following a fire that destroyed her Jackson home.
On Monday, the 88-year-old was found by firefighters in an unburned portion of her house after flames were seen engulfing her residence in Valley North.
Pittman was known throughout the community for her work in advocating for equal voting rights and education before taking the position of president of the Jackson NAACP branch. The Jackson State University alumna also taught at her high school alma mater of Lanier High School.
“Mrs. May-Pittman was a lifelong advocate for human rights and an active member of numerous civic, religious, civil rights, and professional organizations,” Jackson Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba said. “Over the years, she also kept a close eye on city business and politics to ensure leaders remain grounded, fair, and committed to the needs of our residents.”
Police are currently investigating the cause of the fire.
