WHEREAS, The Coalition of Black Women was formed in 1970, by 24 visionary Black women, led by Edna Beach, gathered in New York City to address social, economic, and political issues impacting their families and communities, giving rise to the Coalition of 100 Black Women, a key organization dedicated to advancing gender and racial equity; and
WHEREAS, Under Edna Beach’s leadership, the Coalition addressed the root causes of inequality, mobilized Black women who shared their vision, and became a visible force advocating for the empowerment of Black women in both the public and private sectors; and
WHEREAS, By 1981, the New York Coalition had over 500 members, and as they gained recognition, they expanded their mission and vision nationwide. On October 24th of that year, the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc. was formed, with Jewell Jackson McCabe selected as their first National President; and
WHEREAS, In 1981, Jewel Jackson McCabe encouraged Sylvia Webster of Pennsylvania to charter a local chapter. Embracing the idea, Webster chartered the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc. - Pennsylvania Chapter (NC100BWPA) with 42 progressive women; and
WHEREAS, Over the years, the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc. - PA Chapter (NC100BWPA) has grown to 200 members and has worked tirelessly to advocate for Black women and girls, advancing leadership development, gender equity, and social justice, particularly in the areas of health, education, and economic empowerment, while empowering thousands of Black women to lead in their communities, workplaces, and beyond; and
WHEREAS, NC100BWPA continues to be a powerful voice for gender equity and sociopolitical advancement driving meaningful change to benefit black women and girls. Additionally, NC100BWPA plays a key role in fulfilling the National Coalition’s vision of a world where socio-economic inequity does not exist for Black women and girls; and
WHEREAS, The NC100BWPA members consist of a dynamic network of progressive Black women including physicians, lawyers, educators, entrepreneurs, and other skilled professionals, who serve as change agents. They have recognized various needs in the Philadelphia community and contributed in many ways, including advocating for racial and social justice while striving to create a positive impact in their communities; and
WHEREAS, NC100BWPA remains committed to mentoring, leadership development, and fostering future generations of Black women leaders, recognizing that they are the essential to leadership continuity and must continue to lead the charge in effecting positive change; and
WHEREAS, NC100BWPA’s continued success and impact are a testament to the strength, determination, and vision of its founders, who have bridged generational gaps, created programs that respond to the unique needs of their communities, and maintained a steadfast focus on empowering Black women through advocacy, education, and strategic partnerships; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, Hereby honors and recognizes the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc. - PA Chapter for their tireless dedication to advancing gender and racial equity, their unwavering commitment to the empowerment of Black women, and their significant contributions to shaping the future of leadership and advocacy for women of color across the United States.
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