Civil RightsHistory

Lonnie E. Smith

Lonnie E. Smith, a distinguished dentist and civil rights activist, played a pivotal role in dismantling racial barriers to voting in the United States. Born in 1901 in Yoakum, Texas, Smith was the son of Gus and Sara (Robinson) Smith. His early education culminated in his graduation from Providence Hill High School in 1919, after which he attended Prairie View A&M College for two years. With a passion for advancing his education and career, Smith pursued dental studies at Meharry Medical College in Nashville, Tennessee, earning his Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.) degree in 1924.

Smith began his professional journey in dentistry by opening a practice in Galveston, Texas, in 1925, partnering with E. A. Etta. Four years later, in 1929, he relocated to Houston, where he established a dental practice in the heart of the city. While he excelled in his profession, Smith’s impact extended far beyond his dental office. He became a prominent figure in the civil rights movement, dedicating his efforts to challenging systemic racial discrimination.

Houston dentist Lonnie E. Smith casts his ballot in the 1944 Texas Democratic primary election (July 22, 1944)
Houston dentist Lonnie E. Smith casts his ballot in the 1944 Texas Democratic primary election (July 22, 1944)

On July 27, 1940, Smith’s commitment to civil rights took center stage when he attempted to vote in the Democratic primary election in his Harris County precinct in Houston. At the time, Texas enforced “white primary” rules, which barred African Americans from participating in primary elections. Denied a ballot due to his race, Smith refused to accept this injustice. With the support of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), including legal assistance from Thurgood Marshall—who would later become a United States Supreme Court justice—Smith filed a lawsuit against the precinct election judge, S. E. Allwright.

The case, known as Smith v. Allwright, was filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Texas in 1942. Smith’s legal team argued that the denial of his right to vote violated the Fourteenth, Fifteenth, and Seventeenth Amendments to the U.S. Constitution. Although the district court ruled against him, Smith’s attorneys pursued appeals that eventually brought the case before the United States Supreme Court. On April 3, 1944, the Supreme Court issued a landmark decision in favor of Smith. In an 8-1 ruling, the Court declared that Texas’s white primary system was unconstitutional, thus overturning previous rulings against Smith. This decision marked a significant victory for civil rights, affirming that all eligible Texans—regardless of race—had the right to participate in primary elections. The Smith v. Allwright case set a precedent that would pave the way for further advancements in voting rights across the nation.

Beyond his historic legal triumph, Lonnie E. Smith remained an active and respected member of his community. He served as a Democratic precinct committeeman and was deeply involved with Good Hope Baptist Church of Houston, where he held membership and leadership roles. Additionally, Smith was affiliated with several organizations, including the Phi Beta Sigma fraternity, the Charles A. George Dental Society, and the Houston Negro Chamber of Commerce. He also served as president of the A. A. Lucas Chapter of the NAACP. In his personal life, Smith married Janie Mae Dunn in 1924. Although the couple did not have children, they shared a life rooted in service and advocacy for equality. Lonnie E. Smith passed away on March 6, 1971, in Houston, leaving behind a legacy of courage and determination that continues to inspire generations. Smith’s contributions to both dentistry and civil rights underscore his unwavering commitment to justice and equality. His role in dismantling discriminatory voting practices stands as a testament to the power of perseverance and legal advocacy in effecting social change.

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