Erna P. Harris Papers consists of photographs of family and friends of Erna P. Harris, Gaynelle Harris’ certificates attending school in Enid, Oklahoma, and assorted printed material.

Journalist and peace activist Erna P. Harris (1908-1995) was born on June 29, 1908 in Kingfisher, Oklahoma to James E. and Francis Harris. After attending segregated schools in Oklahoma, she attended Wichita State University because of its stance on integrated education. While at Wichita State, she served as a reporter and editor of the school's newspaper, The Sunflower, and graduated with a B.A. in journalism in 1936. Upon graduation, she had difficulty finding a position as a reporter, so she decided to start her own newspaper, The Kansas Journal, in 1936. The weekly newspaper had a circulation of over 500 and operated for 3 1/2 years until an editorial opposing conscription in October 1939 angered readers and forced the withdrawal of many of the newspaper's advertisers.

.5 linear feet (1 box)

Permission to publish from the Erna P. Harris Papers must be obtained from the African American Museum & Library at Oakland.

No access restrictions. Collection is open to the public.