Organizing for Success
For centuries, African Americans have formed associations for mutual benefit and advancement. While many Black organizations emerged in response to segregation, these organizations performed their own vital work within the community, allowing African Americans to develop leadership skills, pool resources, and cultivate a sense of belonging and pride. As African Americans braided together the strands of family, community, and civic outreach, they built powerful networks that would one day be utilized for profound social change.
Etta Moten Barnett
Musical artist and activist Etta Moten Barnett used her membership in Black women’s organizations as a vehicle for sisterhood, community service, and global activism. She performed fundraising recitals for Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and represented The Links, Inc., at United Nations conferences.
Organizing for Success: Resources
NMAAHC Collection Search
Search the Museum’s online collection for items related to African American organizations
Prince Hall Freemasonry: A Resources Guide
The Library of Congress provides a guide to the numerous materials in its holdings related to Prince Hall Masons, including manuscripts, photographs, and books
Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters Collection
The Schomburg Center holds materials reflecting the activities of the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters (1939–1987), the union founded by A. Philip Randolph
Jackson Ward Walking Tour Podcast
Explore the historic Jackson Ward neighborhood in Richmond, Virginia, a nationally important center of African American cultural and economic activity during the early 20th century