A Trailblazer in Kentucky’s Legal and Civil Rights Landscape
Sadiqa Reynolds is a force to be reckoned with, shattering glass ceilings and leaving an indelible mark on Kentucky’s legal and civil rights landscape. As the first African American woman to clerk for the Kentucky Supreme Court and the first Black Inspector General for the state, Reynolds has carved a path for others to follow.
“Reynolds was the first African American woman to clerk for the Kentucky Supreme Court, and the first African American to serve Kentucky as Inspector General.”
Leading the Charge for Equality and Empowerment
Currently, Reynolds serves as the first female President and CEO of the Louisville Urban League, a pivotal organization dedicated to assisting African Americans and other marginalized communities in attaining social and economic equality through direct services and advocacy.
Under Reynolds’ leadership, the Louisville Urban League has made significant strides in empowering the community.
In 2020 alone, the organization placed 398 individuals in jobs, representing $11.7 million in new wages, while also removing 2,400 barriers to success, such as transportation, food insecurity, access to quality healthcare, and emergency housing.
Championing Education and Mental Health Awareness
Reynolds’ commitment to uplifting the community extends to education and mental health advocacy. The Louisville Urban League’s educational programming has impacted 242 students and 67 parents, while Reynolds’ work to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health earned her the National Alliance on Mental Illness’ Community Leader of the Year award in 2017.
Reynolds’ trailblazing efforts have garnered widespread recognition and accolades. In 2016, she received the Fannie Lou Hamer Award for Justice and was named one of BizWomen’s Business Journal’s Top 100 Women to Watch nationally.
Louisville Magazine named her Person of the Year in 2017, and she was honored as a 2018 National Urban League Woman of Power.
