The first African American woman to earn a law degree in the United States was Charlotte E. Ray. She graduated from Howard University Law School in 1872 and was the first woman to be admitted to practice law in the District of Columbia. Ray faced significant obstacles as a black woman in a predominantly white male profession, yet she persevered, becoming a trailblazer for future generations. Her legal career was marked by her commitment to serving the African American community and advocating for civil rights. Ray's accomplishments inspired many women and people of color to pursue careers in law and challenge racial and gender discrimination.