Twenty women who fought for civil rights and the equality of all Americans are profiled in an exhibit called “Freedom’s Sisters" at the Museum of Tolerance in Los Angeles.
Their passion and efforts span generations. Some women are historical figures -- such as Harriet Tubman and Rosa Parks. Others are contemporary women like Myrlie Evers-Williams and Dorothy Height.
Another profile features Mary McLeod Bethune. Among her quotes: "Be calm, be steadfast, be courageous."
Bethune (1875-1955) was the daughter of slaves. She became an educator -- both as a teacher and founder of the Daytona Educational and Industrial Training School for Negro Girls which ultimately grew to become Bethune Cookman College.
She is probably most known for founding the National Council of Negro Women. Founded in 1935 NCNG is a community based program that deals with issues of health, education and empowerment for African American women.
Bethune was the first African-American woman to be politically involved in the White House, assisting four different presidents. She served as “race leader at large” in Franklin D. Roosevelt’s administration.
Los Angeles Educator Daphne Bradford, a Southern California Freedom's Sister, told NBCLA, "This event is of historical importance to women in Southern California because it allows us to continue the legacy of Mary McLeod Bethune, Coretta Scott King, Betty Shabazz and the others in the 21st Century. The Freedom's Sisters exhibit is the perfect educational opportunity for all people of different races, cultures and genders. We must remember that many of us are still fighting for freedom".
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Bradford goes on to add, "I am very proud to be a Southern California Freedom's Sister."
The exhibit is built around four themes: Dare to Dream; Inspire Lives; Serve the Public and Look to the future. It is a multi-media and interactive exhibit that organizers say is “designed to appeal to people of all ages and backgrounds."
The exhibit opens at the Museum of Tolerance in Los Angeles on September 14, 2011 and runs through January 8, 2012. Admission for adults is $15 with discounted rates for students, seniors and youth.
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