National Association of Colored Women’s Clubs, Inc.
NOTES MAGAZINE
Table of Contents
Page 3 – Message from the President
Page 5 – Fall Board Meeting
Page 6 – The Black Women’s Agenda
Page 7 – 101 Lincoln-Thomas Day Celebration st
Page 8 – Evolve HER: Navigating the Shutdown
Page 9 – Regional Conventions
• Northeast
• Southeast
• Southwest
Page 13 – NACWC Welcomes Two New Clubs
Page 14 – Wear Purple Day
Page 15 – Honoring Ella P. Stewart
Page 16 – In Loving Memory
Page 17 – Gilded Age-Features NACWC
Page 18 – In Loving Memory
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Greetings Federated Sisters,
Welcome back to a new club year! I extend my greetings as we embark on another season of purpose, progress, and powerful sisterhood Whether the leaves are turning or the sun is shining, our commitment remains constant: to uplift our communities, honor our legacy, and evolve with intention.
Our national theme, “Embracing Evolution to Shape Our Legacy: It’s about HER (Harnessing Excellence and Resilience),” continues to guide our journey. This year, I encourage every club to thoughtfully integrate at least three of our six national initiatives into your programming. These initiatives are more than goals; they are calls to action, rooted in the needs of our communities and the strength of our sisterhood
As African American women, we understand the urgency of the moment. Economic strain, health disparities, and social injustice continue to impact our families. Through our leadership, advocacy, and service, we rise to meet these challenges with grace and grit.
Here are easy-to-create program ideas for each initiative to inspire your club’s planning:
1. Transform HER (Leadership Training):
Host leadership workshops for club officers and young women in your community.
· Organize mentorship programs pairing experienced members with emerging leaders.
· Conduct virtual or in-person skill-building sessions on public speaking, advocacy, resume writing, or organizational management
2. Empower HER (Economic Empowerment):
Offer financial literacy seminars, including budgeting, saving, investing, final planning, home buying, and entrepreneurship.
· Create local entrepreneurship workshops or small business support groups.
· Partner with community organizations to provide job readiness and career development sessions
·3. Tell HER Story (Preserve Our Heritage):
Host local history nights or virtual presentations highlighting notable Black women in your area.
· Develop oral history projects to document the stories of long-standing members.
· Organize heritage walks or museum trips celebrating African American culture and accomplishments.
· Read books by African American authors at schools or libraries
4. Healthier HER (Health and Wellness):
· Conduct community health screenings and wellness fairs.
· Host webinars or workshops on chronic disease prevention, nutrition, and mental health.
· Partner with local health providers to promote vaccination drives and health education
· Host a healthy cooking demonstration or a wellness walk.
Create health and hygiene kits for women in need.
5. Evolve HER (Civic Engagement):
· Organize voter registration drives and educational forums on civic participation.
· Encourage clubs to participate in local government meetings and advocacy initiatives
· Host workshops on understanding policy issues that affect communities
Attend local town hall meetings, get involved with your community nights.
6. Prepare HER (Emergency Preparedness):
· Offer first aid, disaster preparedness, and personal safety workshops.
· Organize community drills and provide resources for family emergency planning
· Partner with local agencies to distribute emergency kits or safety materials
Many of you may have already begun working on your calendars for the year, mapping out meetings, events, and service projects. That’s wonderful! As you finalize your plans, I hope you’ll consider incorporating at least three of our six national initiatives into your programming. These initiatives are more than goals; they are calls to action, rooted in the needs of our communities and the strength of our sisterhood Let this year be a celebration of resilience, creativity, and service
Thanks for your unwavering commitment to our mission and your dedication to strengthening the legacy of the NACWC. I look forward to seeing the incredible programs, events, and projects your clubs will implement this year. We want to celebrate your work! Please send photos, flyers, or short write-ups of your programs to nacwcinfo@gmail com Your stories inspire others and strengthen our collective legacy Together, we continue to shape a legacy of excellence, because it truly is about HER
“Legacy in Motion: NACWC’s Fall Forward”
The National Association of Colored Women’s Clubs, Inc., hosted its 2025 Fall Board Meeting at the Residence Inn, Capital View in Arlington, Virginia Though small in number, the gathering was rich in purpose, reflection, and forward-thinking dialogue Day one featured the Board of Directors Meeting, which provided valuable insight into organizational policies and procedures, reinforcing the importance of structure, transparency, and shared governance.
During the Board of Directors Meeting, President Denise Williams addressed the Board and acknowledged the challenges NACWC faces, including modernizing systems, deepening member engagement, and sustaining its rich legacy She reminded the Board of their obligations as stewards of the organization, emphasizing that with unity, vision, and courage, NACWC can continue to rise and remain a vital force for women, children, and families nationwide. Mary Ann Rogers, National Treasurer, announced the bequest from Patricia Young in the amount of $92 809.86.
On day two, the Executive Council convened under the leadership of National Executive Council Chair Erika Swaringen Blankumsee, who guided thoughtful discussions and presented strategic recommendations designed to move NACWC forward with clarity, unity, and innovation. Members also participated in two dynamic workshops aligned with national initiatives. Prepare HER, a hands-on CPR training led by Dr. Juanita Edwards, Northeastern Region President, empowered members with life-saving skills and confidence. Healthier HER, facilitated by Dr. Sheryl Lucas Giles, President of the Washington DC & Vicinity Association of Colored Women’s Clubs, focused on holistic wellness and leadership—offering tools for emotional resilience, self-care, and thriving in service. Both sessions reflected NACWC’s commitment to equipping women with knowledge, strength, and purpose.
A true highlight of the weekend was the keynote address by Dr. Crystal A. Kuykendall, renowned educator, attorney, motivational speaker, and author of the “Crystal Pumpkin,” whose powerful message reminded us that “there is no SHE without HER ” Her words echoed the heart of NACWC’s mission: empowering women to lead, heal, and transform. The meeting concluded with a forward-looking Think Tank session, where members envisioned bold strategies for NACWC’s future.
From digital engagement to intergenerational leadership, ideas flowed with passion and purpose The 2025 Fall Board Meeting reaffirmed our commitment to legacy, leadership, and lifting as we climb. Together, we rise.
Black Women’s Agenda, Inc.
48 Annual Symposium & Luncheon th
NACWC Members of the National Association of Colored Women’s Clubs were honored to attend the 48th Annual Symposium and Luncheon of the Black Women’s Agenda, held at the Marriott Marquis Hotel in Washington, D.C. This powerful convening celebrated leadership, advocacy, and the enduring strength of Black women across generations
The symposium featured two dynamic panels. Panel I, “The Change: Menopause and Women’s Health,” was moderated by Dr. Kimberly Jeffries Leonard and featured special guest Jayne Kennedy, a trailblazing actress, pioneering sportscaster, and passionate advocate for endometriosis awareness. Kennedy’s candid reflections on her personal journey with endometriosis brought depth and urgency to the conversation, reminding attendees of the importance of visibility, empathy, and access in women’s health
Panel II, “Lifting Every Voice,” moderated by MSNBC’s Symone Sanders-Townsend, ignited dialogue on civic engagement and leadership. Esteemed panelists included the Honorable Michael Blake (NY), Congresswoman Lauren Underwood (IL), crisis strategist Judy Smith, and Celina Stewart, Chief Executive Officer of the League of Women Voters Together, they challenged attendees to amplify their voices and remain steadfast in the fight for equity and justice
The luncheon honored outstanding women leaders and recognized the Honorable Lonnie Bunch III, Secretary of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, for his visionary contributions to historical preservation and cultural truth-telling. In a moment that electrified the room, former Vice President Kamala Harris made a surprise appearance, offering words of encouragement and solidarity
The event concluded with a stirring call to action from the Honorable Joyce Beatty of Ohio, reminding all in attendance of the power of collective advocacy and the urgency of our mission.
Lincoln-Thomas Day 2025: Honoring Courage, Legacy, and Freedom
Washington, D.C. September 20, 2025
Written by: Sheryl Lucas Giles, MD
The National Association of Colored Women’s Clubs, Inc. (NACWC) and the Military Road School Preservation Trust, with support from the National Park Service, hosted a moving LincolnThomas Day celebration honoring Mrs. Elizabeth Proctor Thomas, a free Black woman whose courage during the Battle of Fort Stevens helped shape the nation’s path toward freedom. Members of NACWC clubs, Howard University students, Civil War re-enactors, local dignitaries, and community guests gathered for a day filled with reflection and pride
Event Highlights
Wreath-Laying Ceremony: National President Denise E. Williams and Dr. Sheryl Lucas Giles led a tribute to President Abraham Lincoln and Mrs. Thomas.
Keynote Address: Historian Dr Brandi Brimmer delivered a powerful message on the struggles of Black women and widows navigating federal pension discrimination Community Celebration: Music, children’s activities, authors, and historians brought history to life across generations.
A Legacy of Strength
NACWC established Lincoln-Thomas Day in 1924 to honor Mrs Thomas and to commemorate President Lincoln’s signing of the Emancipation Proclamation The annual observance recognizes their shared legacy of justice, sacrifice, and perseverance.
The Woman Behind the Story
When the Union Army seized her land to expand Fort Stevens, Mrs. Thomas chose patriotism over anger, supporting soldiers and the cause of freedom During the battle, President Lincoln came under direct enemy fire, the only time a sitting president has faced combat Mrs Thomas never recovered her property, but her legacy lives on. “This celebration is more than remembrance; it is a tribute to the strength of women like Elizabeth Proctor Thomas,” said Denise E. Williams, 32nd National President of NACWC. “Her legacy reflects our mission of Lifting as We Climb.”
Mark Your Calendar 2026
nd
The 102 Commemoration of Lincoln-Thomas Day will be held on September 19, 2026, in Washington, D.C. Lincoln-Thomas Day reminds us that freedom’s story was written not only by presidents and soldiers, but by resilient women whose courage still lights our path.
Evolve HER: Navigating the Shutdown, Protecting Our Health Social Justice in Action
Anna Miller
As the federal government shutdown stretches into October, millions of Americans especially women, children, and families are bracing for the ripple effects. At the heart of the impasse is a battle over healthcare funding, with major consequences for Medicaid, Medicare, and Affordable Care Act (ACA) insurance premiums
What’s Changing:
Medicaid Cuts: Under recent legislation, eligibility for Medicaid has been narrowed, potentially stripping coverage from up to 7.5 million people over the next decade.
Medicare Disruptions: While core Medicare services remain funded, telehealth access has been rolled back for many seniors, and payment delays may discourage providers from scheduling appointments
Insurance Premium Spikes: Without Congressional action, enhanced ACA subsidies will expire, causing premiums to rise by up to 75% for millions of Americans starting November 1. Families who paid $450/month for coverage could face costs of $950 or more.
These changes disproportionately affect low-income communities, rural families, and African Americans, many of whom rely on these programs for essential care
What NACWC Can Do:
As a historic voice for justice and equity, NACWC must respond with clarity, compassion, and coordinated action:
Educate Our Communities: Host town halls, webinars, or club meetings to explain the impact of these changes and help members navigate enrollment and coverage options
Regional ConventionRecap
Northeastern Federation of Colored Women’s Clubs, Inc., & Youth Affiliates
129th Anniversary and 38 Biennial Convention th
Under the leadership of State President Jan da Silva, the Massachusetts State Union of Colored Women’s Clubs and the Martha Briggs Educational Club proudly hosted a resoundingly successful 129th Anniversary and 38th Biennial Convention.
The Opening Session set the tone for an inspiring gathering, featuring warm greetings from Mayor Jon Mitchell of New Bedford and City Councilman Shane Burgo, who also shared his vocal talent with the delegation. Their presence underscored the community’s support and recognition of our mission.
From the vibrant energy of Massachusetts Night to the inspiring Youth Talent Showcase, every moment reflected the strength, unity, and enduring values of our Federation. Youth Night was especially memorable, as our young leaders proudly presented their STEAM projects demonstrating creativity, innovation, and a bright future rooted in purpose.
A true highlight was the President’s Luncheon, where our 32 National President Denise E. Williams delivered a powerful keynote address that stirred hearts and reaffirmed our shared commitment to “Lifting As We Climb.” nd
The elegant Awards Banquet was a memorable evening of recognition and music, featuring acclaimed recording artist Candida Rose Baptista, a celebrated songwriter, vocalist, and jazz artist, whose performance uplifted and inspired members and guests.
We bid farewell to outgoing Northeast Region President Sandra Lewis and warmly welcome Dr. Juanita Edwards into leadership. We step forward with renewed purpose and dedication.
Southeastern Association of Colored Women’s Clubs and Youth Affiliates
The North Carolina Federation of Adult and Youth Clubs, Inc , proudly hosted the 92nd Anniversary and 55th Biennial Southeastern Regional Convention at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Greensboro-Airport, July 31–August 3, 2025. The theme, Embracing Evolution to Shape Our Legacy: It’s All About HER (Harnessing Excellence & Resilience).
Festivities opened with North Carolina Night, led by State President Mrs. Barbara Myers, featuring greetings from city officials and a lively fashion show, “Eras of Fashion, North Carolina Style ” The official opening, presided over by Regional President Laura T Jamerson, included greetings from distinguished leaders such as 32nd National President Denise Williams, inspiring music from the SACWC Choir, and President Jamerson’s address, “Grateful for the Journey, Grounded in the Legacy.”
Plenary sessions and workshops reflected the national theme: “Embracing Evolution to Shape Our Legacy: It’s about HER (Harnessing Excellence and Resilience) ” Highlights included mental health and history presentations, as well as the Young Adult & Collegiate Luncheon, where 32 National President Denise Williams delivered the keynote address, encouraging young women to lead with excellence and resilience. The Youth Convention also shone with a S.T.E.A.M. workshop and showcases of youth talent.
On Saturday, adults, young adults, and youth boarded buses to the Dr Charlotte Hawkins Brown State Historic Site, honoring one of the region’s founders with a wreath-laying and marker unveiling at Palmer Memorial Institute The elegant Awards Banquet celebrated long-serving members, scholarship recipien ders, including the recognition of Mrs. Linda Means, Georgia State President ’s March Queen.
The convention closed wi o ony by President Williams, reaffirming the Southeast di the present, and secure the future by,
Southwest Association of Colored Women’s Clubs and Youth Affiliates
88th Anniversary and 44 Biennial Convention th
The Southwest Region of the National Association of Colored Women’s Clubs, Inc., & Youth Affiliates proudly hosted its 88th Anniversary and 44th Biennial Convention at the Tucson Marriott University Park in Tucson, Arizona The gathering brought together members and youth affiliates from across the region to celebrate history, strengthen sisterhood, and continue shaping the future of the Association.
This year’s convention theme,
“It’s All About HER (Harnessing Excellence and Resilience): Embracing Evolution to Build a Legacy of Empowerment, Resilience, and Excellence that Inspires HER and Uplifts Others,”
echoed the National Theme and set the tone for sessions focused on leadership, mentorship, service, and sustainability.
A highlight of the convention was the presence of our 32nd National President, Denise E Williams, who joined the Southwest Region for two days of the conference Her visit energized attendees and reaffirmed the unity of purpose shared across all regions of NACWC. President Williams’ engagement reflected her commitment to visibility, collaboration, and uplifting every member and affiliate through initiatives that honor our mission and advance our legacy.
In addition to dynamic workshops and business sessions, members shared their excitement about the return of the White Rose Club, signaling a renewed commitment to cultivating young women leaders and strengthening intergenerational engagement within the region.
Workshops, business sessions, and intergenerational conversations emphasized empowerment, evolution, and the continued charge to “Lift as We Climb ” Delegates and youth alike left inspired to carry forward programs that speak to HER health, education, heritage, civic engagement, leadership development, and community resilience.
The Southw R i i h he l y of he h l id i f undation while embra h pledged to continue
Welcoming Our Newest NACWC Adult Clubs
Ladies of Legacy and Purpose from East St. Louis, IL
We celebrate your commitment to service, empowerment, and uplifting our communities. As we continue Lifting As We Climb, we are excited to have you join us in advancing our mission. It’s All About HER Harnessing Excellence and Resilience! Welcome to the NACWC family! ��✨
The Metro East Women Determination Club, St. Louis, IL
Thank you for rocking your purple! �� Your support helped shine a light on the NACWC—reminding the world that we’re not extinct, we’re evolving. Still here. Still powerful. Still making a difference. #NACWC #WearPurpleDay #StillHereStillHER
15th National President
Dr. Ella P. Stewart
Toledo, Ohio, In a moving celebration of legacy, leadership, and Black excellence, members of the National Association of Colored Women's Clubs, Inc (NACWC) joined the Toledo Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc on Saturday for the unveiling of a new Ohio Historical Marker honoring pharmacist and civic leader Ella P. Stewart.
NACWC National President Denise Williams, Past National President Opal Bacon, Ohio State President Leslie Polintez, members of the Ohio Federation of Colored Women’s Clubs, and the Palm Leaf Club, Michigan, were in attendance to pay tribute to Stewart’s remarkable achievements as a pioneering woman leader and advocate for social change. The event drew community members, civic leaders, and descendants who gathered outside the historic Stewart Pharmacy site to witness the installation of the state marker
Ella P. Stewart made history in numerous ways. She served as the 14th National President of the NACWC from 1948 to 1952, leading the organization during a crucial era of post-war civil rights advocacy. Beyond her national leadership, Stewart was one of the first Black women in the United States to earn a pharmacy degree, opening Toledo’s first Black-owned pharmacy in 1922, where she provided accessible medical care, mentorship, and community support.
Stewart’s pharmacy quickly became a gathering place and community hub, where residents found not only medicine but also advice, resources, and hope Throughout her life, she championed women’s empowerment, civil rights, and international humanitarian efforts, later representing the United States as a goodwill ambassador through the U.S. State Department. The new historical marker ensures that Stewart’s impact will continue to inspire future generations
The dedication ceremony served as both a celebration and a call to carry forward Stewart’s mission, a reminder of the NACWC motto: “Lifting as We Climb.”
Drink of the Month: Motivation
This month’s featured drink is Motivation a refreshing reminder to lift our spirits and stay rooted in the mission of the National Association of Colored Women’s Clubs, Inc
Ingredients for Motivation:
1 cup of Sisterhood always served with love
2 tablespoons of Resilience to keep pressing forward
A splash of Legacy to honor those who paved the way
A twist of Creativity to keep ideas flowing
Garnish with Hope and Service because that’s who we are
�� Directions:
Mix with purpose
Serve over ice-cold determination.
Sip daily and share generously with others.
When we drink Motivation, we are reminded to fall in love with NACWC all over again, and recommit to our theme:
“Embracing Evolution to Shape Our Legacy: It’s About HER (Harnessing Excellence and Resilience).”
Here’s to Motivation: Lifting as we climb, one sip at a time!
Frances Harper Watkins and the NACWC Spirit in Season 3, Episode 24
HBO’s acclaimed series The Gilded Age has brought the legacy of Black women’s leadership into the national conversation In Season 3, Episode 24, viewers witnessed a powerful moment that echoes the founding spirit of the National Association of Colored Women’s Clubs, Inc. (NACWC).
In this episode, the show features Frances Ellen Watkins Harper, one of the great voices of civil rights, women’s suffrage, and racial justice in the late 19th century Though The Gilded Age is a fictional series, its inclusion of Frances Harper anchors the narrative in the real history of Black women’s organizing history that gave rise to the NACWC in 1896
A Voice That Paved the Way
Frances Harper Watkins was more than a suffragist and orator; she was a forerunner of the Black women’s club movement. Her advocacy for education, women’s rights, and racial equity helped lay the foundation for what would become the NACWC. By bringing her into the storyline, The Gilded Age introduces national and international audiences to the caliber of leadership from which our organization emerged.
Visibility on the National Stage Season 3, Episode 24 places a Black woman suffragist at the center of the conversation in a world historically dominated by white narratives Hearing our legacy represented on screen—even indirectlyreminds viewers that the struggle for justice was not one voice or one movement, but a chorus led by determined Black women The very mention of Frances Harper invites audiences to learn more about the organized force of women who stood behind her and followed in her footsteps, women of the NACWC.
This kind of representation matters It places our name and our history in front of millions It invites curiosity, research, and recognition. It tells the world that we were not silent, and we were not absent. We were leading
Aligned With Our National Theme
Our national theme, “Embracing Evolution to Shape Our Legacy: It’s About HER (Harnessing Excellence and Resilience)”, comes alive through this moment in popular culture:
Harnessing Excellence – Frances Harper was an educator, writer, activist, and thought leader, embodying the brilliance of our foremothers.
Resilience – Her voice rose in an era that denied Black women a platform, yet she made one. That spirit is the same spirit that fueled the birth of the NACWC.
Legacy in Motion – By appearing in a modern television series, her influence continues to evolve and reach new generations Our story is still being told, and now, being televised in a way that reaches a larger audience.
A Moment to Build On
This is more than entertainment; it is an opportunity Chapters and clubs can: Host watch parties and discussions about the episode
Share educational clips or reading materials on Frances Harper and early clubwomen. Use this cultural moment to elevate our mission, recruit new members, and remind our communities of our legacy.
When our history reaches mainstream media, we do not shrink; we shine
If you have access, make sure to tune in to Season 3, Episode 24 of The Gilded Age and witness a moment that reflects the roots of our movement. Let it renew your pride, affirm our purpose, and inspire our continued commitment to “Lifting as We Climb.”
November Awareness Month
As we welcome November, the National Association of Colored Women’s Clubs, Inc highlights a series of awareness campaigns that resonate with our mission to uplift women, children, and families This month signifies not only a time for gratitude but also a season of action.
�� National Diabetes Awareness Month
Diabetes impacts over 38 million Americans, with Black women being disproportionately affected by Type 2 diabetes due to systemic health disparities NACWC clubs can take proactive steps by hosting health screenings, sharing nutritional information, and encouraging regular checkups. Remember, education empowers and early detection can save lives.
Lung Cancer Awareness Month
Lung cancer remains one of the most lethal cancers for women, often diagnosed in later stages due to stigma and lack of awareness. November serves as a vital opportunity to promote screenings, particularly for non-smokers and women exposed to environmental toxins. Let’s break the silence and advocate for equitable access to healthcare.
�� Continuation of Domestic Violence Awareness
Although October is recognized as Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the advocacy continues. November provides an opportunity to check in on survivors, support shelters, and advocate for traumainformed services. NACWC clubs can collaborate with local organizations to create safe spaces and provide access to healing resources
Call to Action
Let us harness the momentum of November to build a purposeful legacy. Whether through health fairs, voter drives, or healing circles, NACWC clubs are uniquely positioned to lead. Let’s honor our foremothers by showing up for H E R Harnessing Excellence and Resilience in every community we serve
We pause to honor the lives and legacies of the cherished members who transitioned this season:
Dr. Johnnie Huston – Ohio. Dr. Huston was a member of Nannie Helen Burroughs/Valley Forge. She uplifted generations through education and civic leadership and will always be remembered as the crowning Queen of NACWC.
Ms Bernice Mays – New Jersey A devoted clubwoman was a member of the Essex County Civic Club. Ms. Mays embodied service with dignity as a member and Chair of the Life Membership Committee.. Her presence at state and national gatherings brought warmth and unity to all.
Mrs Jacqueline Hill – North Carolina Known for her tireless advocacy and joyful spirit, she was a member of the Fayetteville Senior Federation Club Mrs Hill inspired those around her, and her legacy lives on in the lives she touched.
Dr. Jean Sinkford -Washington, DC, is a dedicated member of the Tuesday Evening Club of Social Workers and the first African American woman to serve as Dean of Howard University School of Dentistry
We invite all members to observe a moment of silence at your next meeting in remembrance of these extraordinary women. May their memory be a blessing and their example a guide.
JOHN 14:27 - PEACE I LEAVE WITH YOU; MY PEACE I GIVE TO YOU. NOT AS THE WORLD GIVES DO I GIVE TO YOU. LET NOT YOUR HEARTS BE TROUBLED, NEITHER LET THEM BE AFRAID.
