Anacostia Community Museum
Pinback Button, "Working Press Pass" Worn By Ethel L. Payne
1953
Ethel L. Payne (1911-1991) wore this press pass to cover the inauguration of President Dwight D. Eisenhower for The Chicago Defender, the nation’s leading African American newspaper. The blue-and-white button admitted Payne to the inauguration ceremony on January 20, 1953 and to related events. Payne also attended an inaugural ball held the following evening at the D.C. National Guard Armory, which featured renowned musicians Lionel Hampton and W.C. Handy.
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