THE NATIONAL COUNCIL OF NEGRO WOMEN STEP OUT IN STYLE

By Conita Butts | Contributing Writer Photos by: Conita Butts

On Saturday, April 30, the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) San Diego unit, held their first Mother/Daughter Brunch at the Anchors Catering & Conference Center. Their theme for the day was ‘Generations Stepping in Style’ and indeed, they did. Many mothers and daughters showed up and showed out in matching colorful outfits.

It was a fabulous event of 150 guests, held for a noble and worthy cause. Board of Education President, Dr. Sharon Whitehurst- Payne, a member of NCNW, shared the purpose with guests as they enjoyed a meal: “The purpose is twofold: for recruitment of new members and to raise funds for our youth activities of scholarships and our STEM and other youth events. Please join us as we live our mission and expand as God directs us individually and collectively.”

Ms. Helen Edwards, the San Diego Section president, further elaborated in a brief interview: “We want to raise awareness of the San Diego Section and the National Council of Negro Women, Inc. We also want to receive funds for our scholarship committee. We have girls who are high school seniors, two girls in college, and we would like to continue supporting them through the finances. This breakfast also serves as a membership drive. We are trying to build our membership. We currently have 45 prominent women serving others. We can always use Others.”

The program included solos by Ms. Carmelia “Toot” Bell; a recognition of youth officers; Jolina Diggs, president; Ilori Baham, Vice President; and Bella Omar, Recording Secretary. Door prizes were awarded and appreciation given to the oldest attendees.

Dr. Whitehurst-Payne also specially recognized Makayka Robinson and Dr. Dorothy Smith. “Dr. Dorothy Smith connected at an NCNW event online as Makayla shared her plans to go away to college. Dr. Smith is from Martin, Tennessee and has family there. The connection was made and now Dorothy lives on in Makayla.”

Ms. Helen G. Adam was the oldest member at the event at 99-years-old

The National Council of Women was established by Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune in 1935, in response to a need for women to be enlightened, inspired, and connected. According to its website, it is an “organization of organizations” comprised of 300 campus and community-based sections, such as the San Diego unit, and 32 women’s organizations. Dr. Dorothy Height, a well-known civil rights activist, served as the president for 40 years.

Black women of all ages are invited to join. There are several age groups for members: 12-18, youth; 19-35 Young Adult, and Adults with no age limit. The oldest member at the event was Ms. Helen G. Adams, a beautiful 99-year-old, born January 10, 1923. For more information, email sdsectionncnw@yahoo.com