Eunice Roberta Hunton
July 16, 1899 – January 25, 1970
Born on July 16, 1899, Eunice Roberta Hunton Carter emerged as a pioneering figure in American law. Raised in an environment that valued education and equality, she embarked on a path of academic excellence from her early years. After completing her primary and secondary education, Eunice pursued higher learning at Howard University, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts degree. Undeterred by societal barriers, she continued her educational journey, obtaining her law degree from Fordham University School of Law in 1932, thereby becoming one of New York’s earliest African-American female lawyers.
Eunice’s legal career was marked by a series of groundbreaking achievements and impactful initiatives. Breaking barriers as one of the first African-American prosecutors in the United States, she utilized her position to advocate for justice and equality. Beyond the courtroom, she actively participated in the Pan-African Congress and contributed to United Nations committees dedicated to advancing women’s status worldwide.
One of Eunice’s most notable cases involved leading a significant prostitution racketeering investigation. Through meticulous planning and strategic brilliance, she orchestrated a comprehensive case against notorious Mafioso kingpin Charles “Lucky” Luciano. Her efforts paved the way for New York District Attorney Thomas Dewey to successfully charge Luciano with compulsory prostitution, showcasing Eunice’s legal acumen and commitment to social reform.
Hunton entered matrimony with Lisle Carter Sr., one of the pioneering African-American dentists in New York. They established their home in Harlem, Manhattan, where they resided for several years. The union bore fruit in the form of their only child, Lisle Carter Jr., who went on to achieve academic success, graduating from college and law school. Lisle Carter Jr. embarked on a distinguished career in law and later served in political roles within the John F. Kennedy and Lyndon B. Johnson presidential administrations. His endeavors in public service earned him accolades and recognition.
Within his family lineage, Lisle Carter Jr. fathered five children, among whom is the esteemed author and Yale Law professor, Stephen L. Carter. In 2018, Professor Carter released a biography titled “Invisible: The Forgotten Story of the Black Woman Lawyer Who Took Down America’s Most Powerful Mobster,” dedicated to his paternal grandmother, Eunice Carter. The biography delves into Eunice’s remarkable life, exploring facets such as her professional accomplishments and the intriguing possibility of a long-standing connection with jazz musician Fletcher Henderson.
Additionally, Professor Carter’s biography sheds light on the complexities within Eunice’s family dynamics, including the imprisonment of her brother, W. Alphaeus Hunton Jr., for contempt of court. This stemmed from his refusal to divulge information regarding fugitive leaders of the Communist Party, a situation that led to estrangement between the siblings.
Overall, Hunton’s marriage, family, and legacy are intertwined with a tapestry of achievement, resilience, and personal intricacies that continue to captivate and inspire audiences today.
Eunice Roberta Hunton Carter’s legacy transcends legal precedent; it embodies a legacy of resilience, advocacy, and empowerment. Her unwavering dedication to justice and equality inspired future generations of African-American lawyers and activists. Despite facing formidable challenges, she blazed a trail of progress, leaving an indelible mark on the legal landscape and inspiring countless individuals to pursue their aspirations regardless of societal constraints.
On January 25, 1970, Eunice Roberta Hunton Carter passed away, leaving behind a legacy that continues to resonate in American jurisprudence. Her contributions have been honored with numerous accolades and posthumous recognitions, symbolizing the enduring impact of her tireless advocacy and unwavering commitment to justice.