Valiant Vel: Vel Phillips and the Fight for Fairness and Equality

By Jerrianne Hayslett

Book Overview

A New York Public Library Best Book of 2025

An illustrated biography of groundbreaking civil rights activist Vel Phillips for young readers

Fair housing advocate, civil rights champion, and civic leader Vel Phillips spent her life breaking barriers and fighting for justice for all people. As the first Black woman on the Milwaukee Common Council, Wisconsin's first Black judge, and the first Black woman to win statewide office when she was elected secretary of state of Wisconsin, Phillips left a lasting legacy that has inspired generations to continue the fight for justice and equality.

Valiant Vel depicts Phillips's captivating story for young readers in middle and high school--from her childhood experiences facing racial discrimination, to achieving her dream of becoming a lawyer, to her long career in politics and civil rights. In the 1960s, Phillips spearheaded a campaign to advocate for fair housing in Milwaukee, joining forces with the NAACP Youth Council and marching alongside other activists in the face of violent opposition. In 1968, Phillips's persistence paid off when the Milwaukee Common Council passed a fair housing ordinance.

Beautifully illustrated with historic photographs and original artwork by Milwaukee artist Aaron Boyd, Valiant Vel makes an excellent addition to young readers' bookshelves at school and at home. With an afterword by Phillips's son, Michael, a glossary of terms, and sources for further research, this book provides a thorough look at an inspirational activist who dedicated her life to making the world a better place.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 197660043X
• ISBN13: 9781976600432
• Release Date: February 2025
• Publisher: Wisconsin Historical Society Press
• Length: 144 Pages
• Weight: 0.90 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.4" x 7.9" x 9.0"
• Age Range: 11 to 14 years
• Grade Range: Grades 6 to 9