The National Council of Negro Women is an “organization of organizations,” a powerful network of more than two million women. NCNW is open to all persons without regard to gender, race, ethnicity, national origin, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic status.
NCNW History
NCNW was founded in 1935 by Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, an influential educator, and activist, and for more than fifty years, the iconic Dr. Dorothy Height was president of NCNW. Johnnetta Betsch Cole was elected Chair of NCNW in 2018, ushering in a new era of social activism and continued progress and growth for the organization. Today, NCNW’s programs are grounded on a foundation of critical concerns known as “Four for the Future”. NCNW promotes education with a special focus on science, technology, engineering, and math; encourages entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and economic stability; educates women about good health and HIV/AIDS; promotes civic engagement and advocates for sound public policy and social justice.
About North Shore Area Section
The NSAS is a voluntary not-for-profit organization, which adheres to the Philosophy, Mission, and Goals of the National Office: To advance the opportunities and the quality of life for African American women, their families, and communities.
Under the leadership of Mahala Field Atchison, an educator, and true visionary, eight women joined together to become Charter members in meeting the criteria to establish the North Shore Area Section (NSAS). God answered their prayers and the section received its Charter in October 1981. The determination of a few became the catalyst for developing many past programs, some of which continue to benefit local communities today.
Section Charter October 5, 1981
Mission Statement
The National Council of Negro Women's (NCNW) mission is to lead, empower, and advocate for women of African descent as they support their families and communities. Our organization fulfills this purpose through research, advocacy, national and community-based services, and programs on issues of health, education, and economic empowerment. Further, we aim to set standards of excellence, leadership ability while promoting respect through activism and education. Our organization will strive to empower the vulnerable, those facing poverty, helping them to achieve full potential and foster empowerment and confidence. We pledge to ensure the rich history of this organization, remain viable as a guide, and never forget the founders whose significant courage and vision paved our future.
The Pledge
It is our pledge to make a lasting contribution to all that is finest and best in America, to cherish and enrich her heritage of freedom and progress by working for the integration of all her people regardless of race, creed, or national origin, into her spiritual, social, cultural, civic and economic life, and thus aid her to achieve the glorious destiny of a true and unfettered democracy.
MARY MCLEOD BETHUNE COUNCIL HOUSE NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE
McLeod Bethune (white-haired woman seated on the right side of the table) at the Council House.