Leander Shaw (Finding Aid)

Leander Shaw

1930 -

Favorite Color: Blue

Favorite Food: Steak and Potatoes

Favorite Time of Year: Spring

Favorite Vacation Spot: His beach house

Interview Length: 212 minutes

Interview Date(s): April 19, 2002

Interview Location(s): Tallahassee, Florida

Abstract

Leander Shaw recalls his family background, particularly his mother and father. He also shares memories of growing up in Lexington, Virginia. Leander Shaw details his school years, including his high school avocations and his experiences as an undergraduate at West Virginia State University. He also recalls his childhood family life. Leander Shaw recalls law school and his early career, including teaching at Florida A & M University and his participation in the NAACP Ink Fund. He also discusses his brief stint in the military. Leander Shaw details his career progression, including his private practice and his tenure as public defender of Duval County, Florida. He also recounts Civil Rights Movement conflicts in St. Augustine, Florida. Leander Shaw recalls the advancement of his career, from his appointment as a judge to the First District Court of Appeal of Duval County, Florida, to his appointment as justice to the Florida Supreme Court. He then details episodes from his tenure on the Florida Supreme Court, such as a case involving access to abortion for minors. Leander Shaw details his tenure as an African American justice to the Florida Supreme Court. He focuses in particular on Florida's death penalty policy, and discusses the role of the Florida Supreme Court in the controversial 2000 presidential elections. Leander Shaw discusses the court proceedings involved in the controversial 2000 presidential elections, and evaluates their long-term impact. He then reflects on his life and career, and considers some of the challenges facing African Americans. Leander Shaw discusses problems facing African Americans concerning access to education and employment, particularly in terms of law careers. He also considers what his legacy will be.

41 Stories (See Ordered Story Set)