Lula Smith is a prominent figure in South Phoenix known for her community activism and dedication to social justice. She has been a long-time advocate for marginalized communities, working tirelessly to address issues such as poverty, education inequality, and police brutality.
Lula Smith was born on January 15, 1948, in Chicago, Illinois. She grew up in a working-class neighborhood and was raised by her single mother, who worked as a domestic servant. Despite facing financial struggles, Lula’s mother emphasized the importance of education and hard work. Lula attended a local public school where she excelled academically. She was a dedicated student who showed a passion for learning from a young age.
She was a pioneering African American businesswoman who opened the first African-American-owned grocery store in the area in the 1920s. Her store provided essential goods and services to the African American community in South Phoenix, at a time when segregation and discrimination made it difficult for African Americans to access these resources elsewhere. Lula Smith’s store not only met the necessities of the community but also served as a gathering place and a hub for social and economic activities. It represented a form of resistance against systemic racism and segregation. By establishing a successful business in a predominantly African American neighborhood, she demonstrated the economic power and resilience of the community.
At the time, Lula Smith was a prominent figure in the African American community during the early 20th century She was known for her activism and involvement in various national, state, and local events at the time. One significant event that Lula Smith was involved in was the Great Migration, where African Americans moved from the rural South to urban areas in the North in search of better opportunities and to escape racial discrimination.
It provides valuable insights into the rich cultural heritage and community resilience of the area. Through her personal experiences and stories, Smith sheds light on the challenges and triumphs faced by the residents of South Phoenix over the years. She highlights the importance of preserving the history and traditions of the community, emphasizing the need to honor the contributions of past generations. One of Smith’s most notable contributions was her work in establishing the South Phoenix Oral History Project. This project aimed to collect and archive the personal narratives of long-term residents, providing valuable insights into the communities past. Through her efforts, Smith helped to raise awareness of the rich cultural heritage of South Phoenix and the struggles faced by its residents.
Smith’s reflection serves as a reminder of the significance of local history in shaping identity and fostering a sense of belonging among residents. By sharing her memories and perspectives, she invites others to appreciate the unique character of South Phoenix and to learn from its past Smith’s reflections also offer a platform for dialogue and engagement within the community, encouraging residents to connect with their roots and work towards a brighter future together.
Her impact on society can be seen through her involvement in organizing protests, advocating for voting rights, and working towards desegregation.
Jackie Garner and Lula Smith Index
| Narrator | Lula Smith |
| Birth date | January 15, 1948 |
| Place of Origin | Phoenix, AZ |
| Place of Residence | South Phoenix, AZ |
| Years Active | |
| Occupation | Business Women |
| Recording Date | March 6, 2024 |
| Location | Classroom Studio, South Mountain Community College |
| Recording Duration | 1:21:56 |
| Interview Conducted By | Dr. Summer Cherland and Dr. Travis May |
| Story Written By | Student Researcher Kylie Rehberger |
Metadata Table
South Phoenix Oral History Project 