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Who was Barbara C. Harris, and why was her election significant?

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The Washington National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., features Gothic-style architecture with tall towers, pointed arches, and a large rose window above the main entrance. — The Episcopal Church Washington National Cathedral, Washington, D.C.

Barbara C. Harris (1930–2020) was an American clergywoman and social activist who became the first female bishop in the Anglican Communion.1

Her election was historically significant because it broke a long-standing gender barrier within the church hierarchy. In 1988, she was elected as a suffragan (assistant) bishop for the diocese of Massachusetts and was consecrated on February 11, 1989, despite opposition from the archbishop of Canterbury and other traditionalists.12

Throughout her life, Harris was a dedicated advocate for the full inclusion of women and ethnic minorities in the church. Her career included significant work in the civil rights movement, where she participated in the Selma march and registered voters in Mississippi. As a bishop, she continued to champion the role of women in the clergy and spoke out against those who questioned the validity of women priests. Her consecration served as a pivotal moment for the Episcopal Church in its ongoing efforts toward inclusivity and social progress.12