The National Association of Colored Women’s Clubs, Inc., recently inducted members of P.H.O.E.N.I.X., a city-wide volunteer organization during a ceremony at Washington University in St. Louis.
NACWC is recognized as the first national organization for women of color since it was founded in 1896, preceding the founding of all other Black women’s organizations in the country.
The NACWC and its activism are featured in the 1904 World’s Fair Exhibit at the Missouri History Museum and a book entitled, “The Wonder and Complexity of the 1904 World’s Fair.
Several NACWC members were featured authors during a book launch and panel discussion on December 5, 2024.
P.H.O.E.N.I.X. was founded by young Black women from five universities in the area: Webster University, Harris-Stowe State University, Lindenwood, Washington University and the University of Missouri-St. Louis.
Since 1904, the organization has promoted the welfare of women and children through education, moral, economic and charitable activities.
Coutney Woods, president of the Harriet Tubman Literary Club which sponsors P.H.O.E.N.I.X. said the club’s activities “will focus on reducing trauma and its impact on the citizens of our city as they seek to realize the motto of the NACWC, “Lifting As We Climb.”’