how did mary mcleoud bethune make a psotive change on america.
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http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_McLeod_Bethune
Mary McLeod Bethune made a positive change in America through her tireless efforts in the fields of education and civil rights. To understand how she accomplished this, we need to delve into her background and the actions she took during her life.
1. Background and Early Life: Mary McLeod Bethune was born in 1875 in South Carolina, during a time when racial segregation and discrimination were rampant. As a child of former slaves, she grew up in poverty and faced many obstacles in accessing quality education herself.
2. Education: Bethune understood the transformative power of education and worked diligently to acquire knowledge and skills. She attended Scotia Seminary (now Barber-Scotia College), a Presbyterian school for African American girls, and later, she earned a scholarship to attend Moody Bible Institute in Chicago. Bethune's commitment to education became a cornerstone of her mission to uplift her community.
3. The Daytona Educational and Industrial Training School: In 1904, Bethune founded a boarding school in Florida called the Daytona Educational and Industrial Training School for Negro Girls. This school aimed to provide African American girls with a quality education that would empower them with academic knowledge and practical skills for employment.
4. Merging Schools: In 1931, Bethune's Daytona school merged with Cookman Institute, creating Bethune-Cookman College. This merger expanded educational opportunities for African Americans in the Daytona area, providing them with a comprehensive institution for higher learning.
5. Role in the National Association of Colored Women: Bethune became an influential figure in the National Association of Colored Women (NACW), an organization focused on advocating for the rights and welfare of African American women and children. She served as the president of the NACW from 1924 to 1928, using her platform to fight against racial injustice, lynching, and discrimination.
6. Advisor to Presidents: Bethune's dedication to education and civil rights caught the attention of national leaders. She advised multiple U.S. presidents, including Calvin Coolidge, Herbert Hoover, and Franklin D. Roosevelt. As a special advisor on minority affairs in the Roosevelt administration, she worked towards improving opportunities for African Americans and promoting equal rights.
7. The National Council of Negro Women: In 1935, Bethune founded the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW), an organization focused on addressing the specific needs and challenges faced by African American women. The NCNW empowered African American women to become actively engaged in their communities and to fight for their rights.
8. Legacy and Continued Impact: Mary McLeod Bethune's work left a lasting impact on American society. She was an influential advocate for civil rights, education, and women's empowerment. Her dedication to breaking down racial barriers and promoting equality paved the way for future generations of African Americans.
In conclusion, Mary McLeod Bethune made a positive change in America through her commitment to education, her role as a leader in national organizations, and her efforts to empower African Americans and women. Her work continues to inspire others to fight for equal rights and opportunities for all.