1975 - Lowell W. Perry Confirmed as First Black Chairman of the EEOC

On May 21, 1975, Lowell W. Perry was confirmed by the U.S. Senate as Chairman of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), following his nomination by President Gerald R. Ford on May 12, 1975 . He was officially sworn into office on May 27, 1975, in a ceremony held in the White House Rose Garden, with U.S. District Judge Damon J. Keith administering the oath.? Justia Law

Perry’s appointment was historically significant, as he became the first African American to serve as Chairman of the EEOC. His diverse background included roles as an NFL player and coach, a broadcaster, a labor relations professional, and an executive at Chrysler Corporation. At Chrysler, he notably became the company’s first African American plant manager. ?Wikipedia

During his tenure at the EEOC, Perry focused on strengthening the agency’s enforcement of anti-discrimination laws and addressing systemic issues in employment practices. He served as Chairman until 1976, after which he returned to the private sector.