International Council of Women of the Darker Races facts for kids
The International Council of Women of the Darker Races (ICWDR) was an important group for black women in the United States. It was led by Margaret Murray Washington. This organization existed from 1922 to 1940. The ICWDR was special because it was "the first independent international organization for African American women".
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What Was the ICWDR?
The International Council of Women of the Darker Races, or ICWDR, was a group created by and for black women. Its main goal was to connect black women from different countries. It aimed to work on important issues together. The ICWDR was a pioneer in bringing African American women's voices to a global stage.
How the ICWDR Started
The ICWDR was formed after a meeting of the NACW in Richmond, Virginia, in 1922. Margaret Murray Washington had thought about creating such a group for a while. At the first meeting, she was chosen as president.
Other important women who helped start the ICWDR included Mary Church Terrell, Addie Hunton, and Elizabeth Carter. Also involved were Charlotte Hawkins Brown, Mary S. Josenberger, Nannie Burroughs, Lugenia Burns Hope, Addie Dickerson, and Emily Williams. Adelaide Casely Hayford, who was visiting from Sierra Leone, was also a founding member.
What the ICWDR Did
At first, the ICWDR focused on education. They created programs about black literature and history. They also supported a school in Sierra Leone run by Adelaide Casely Hayford. This showed their commitment to education and connecting with people across the world.
Leaders of the ICWDR
Margaret Murray Washington was the first president of the ICWDR. She led the group from its start in 1922 until she passed away in 1925. After her death, Addie Hunton became the president. In 1928, Addie Dickerson from Philadelphia took over as president.
The End of the ICWDR
The International Council of Women of the Darker Races continued its work under Addie Dickerson's leadership. However, when Addie Dickerson died in 1940, the organization did not continue. The ICWDR ended its activities that same year.
