Irene McCoy Gaines (October 25, 1892 – April 7, 1964) was an American social worker and civil rights activist who fought against segregation throughout her adult life.

In 1918 she became an employment counselor at the Chicago Urban League, an organization which helped to improve the living and working conditions for African American citizens.

In 1919 she became an organizer in the girls division of the war camp community service program where she advocated for better living conditions and opportunities for black women.

She was the first African American woman to run for a state legislative seat in Illinois and also ran for the county's commissioners office.

The contest was conducted by the NACWCA and they believed Gaines was more than qualified and capable to receive the grant and actually produce results due to her constant efforts and interest in issues with housing located in several communities around the state.