NACW

between 1880 and 1900

Library of Congress

c.1891

Library of Congress

Public domain

Activist Mary B. Talbert was committed to addressing inequalities based both on gender and race.  Talbert served as the sixth president of The National Association of Colored Women (NACW) from 1919-1920.  The NACW was formed in 1896, with the goal of promoting equality for African American women.  One of Talbert’s more famous speeches, “Women and Colored Women,” focused on the “clear powers of observation and judgment” African American women had gained.  These powers allowed a woman to observe an issue and use her judgment to help find a solution.  Talbert felt that these powers were “necessary to the building of an ideal country.” 

Library of Congress

Banner with motto of Oklahoma Federation of Colored Women's Clubs "Lifting As We Climb"

Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture

Banner for Oklahoma Federation of Colored Women's Clubs. The organization's motto was "Lifting As We Climb".

Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture