She would remain the only woman and only black member of that body for many years to come. Phillips frequently participated in nonviolent civil rights protests against discrimination in housing, education, and employment during the 1960s. Phillips first proposed an ordinance in 1962 to outlaw housing discrimination.
She would remain the only woman and only black member of that committee for a long time. During the 1960s, Phillips frequently participated in peaceful protests against racial segregation in areas such as housing, education, and employment. In 1962, Phillips first suggested an ordinance to ban discriminatory practices in housing.