At 94 years old, Sara Anderson has a lifetime of stories—stories of service and an unwavering commitment to justice. Her journey is a testament to the power of conviction, and as we celebrate Women’s History Month, we are honored to share “herstory”.
Sara began her career at the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) in 1951, conducting research that she still takes great pride in.
Despite the challenges of being a woman in that field, “I felt like an equal because of what I brought to the table,” she recalls. But after nearly a decade of service, she left the agency to start a family.
As the 1960s unfolded, so did her calling to be part of the Civil Rights Movement. In August 1963, she stood among the thousands at the historic March on Washington, witnessing Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s iconic “I Have a Dream” speech. “It was so peaceful… just completely peaceful. Truly amazing,” she reflects.
Beyond that momentous day, Sara was deeply involved in activism, demonstrating in front of segregated movie theaters in Arlington, Virginia, and protesting the American Nazi Party, led by George Rockwell. She recalls hearing Fred Shuttlesworth, a fiery and fearless civil rights leader, speak—“he was marvelous and so impassioned.” Shuttlesworth was a key figure in the movement, co-founding the Southern Christian Leadership Conference alongside Dr. King and enduring repeated violence as he fought for desegregation.
Her activism came at a cost, though. Arrested for protesting, Sara later attempted to return to the CIA, only to be denied reentry due to her particular civil rights involvement. A judge once told her that women should “stay home,” a stark reminder of some of the opinions a woman’s “place” during that era. But Sara never let criticism or opposition deter her. “We had neighbors who disapproved of my involvement, but I didn’t let it stop me,” she says.
Sara found strength in the women around her—fellow activists, friends, and the changemakers of her time. Their determination reinforced her own. Today, her message to young women is simple but powerful:
“Do what your conscience tells you is the right thing to do. If there are any problems in society, stand up for what you believe in.”
This Women’s History Month, we honor Sara Anderson—her service, her courage, and her belief in justice. In sharing “herstory”, we continue the fight for a better tomorrow.
