National Urban League Mourns Passing of Board Vice Chair Alexis Herman

NEW YORK (April 25, 2025) — National Urban League President and CEO Marc H. Morial issued the following statement regarding the death of Alexis Herman, Senior Vice Chair of the National Urban League's Board of Trustees and former U.S. Secretary of Labor:

“The entire Urban League family is grieving the loss of a gifted public servant, esteemed colleague, and cherished friend.

“A lifelong champion for working Americans and underserved communities, she blazed a trail for women of color as he youngest director of the Labor Department’s Women’s Bureau in history and the first Black Labor Secretary.  She led the effort to institute a global child labor standard; moved people from welfare to work with dignity; and launched the most aggressive unemployed youth initiative since the 1970’s. She presided over a period of record-low unemployment and successfully advocated for a pivotal hike in the federal minimum wage.

“Her expertise and leadership have been invaluable in steer the National Urban League toward record growth, professionalism, and impact.  She was instrumental in driving the development of the National Urban League Empowerment Center, our soon-to-be new headquarters and the most significant economic development project in recent Harlem history.

“Her commitment to empowering underserved individuals and marginalized communities was fierce, genuine, and unwavering. From a young age, she challenged the injustices of  racial segregation and never strayed from her deeply-held principles and high standards of integrity.

“We are devastated by the loss of an irreplaceable champion, stalwart leader, and compassionate friend. Our heartfelt condolences are with her family, friends, and all those who have been touched by her kindness. “