United Women in Faith Honors 100 Years of Black History Month by Celebrating the Legacy and Leadership of Black Women

For Immediate Release 

Contact: press@spotlightpr.org

NEW YORK – As we celebrate 100 years since the inception of Black History Month, and 50 years as a national observance, United Women in Faith honored the foundational role and contributions of the Black women who have gotten us where we are today. They released the following statement, which can be attributed to Sally Vonner, General Secretary and CEO of United Women in Faith: 

“United Women in Faith is proud to celebrate Black History Month’s 100 years after its origination. From Ida B. Wells to Mary McLeod Bethune, from Sojourner Truth to Harriet Tubman, Black women are at the heart of our mission for a more loving and just world.

Activists and advocates such as Elizabeth Eckford, a member of the Little Rock Nine and a keynote speaker at our Assembly 2026 Legacy Banquet, show us how we can honor our history while boldly shaping a better future. We are also inspired by contemporary leaders, including our Assembly 2026 keynote Stacey Abrams, whose commitment to voting rights and democratic participation reminds us that justice work is both sacred and ongoing, and Bishop Vashti McKenzie, whose historic leadership in the church continues to open doors for women to lead with faith, courage, and conviction.”

“I remain mindful of my role as the second African American woman to lead United Women in Faith. From 1968 to 1990, my foremother Theressa Hoover blazed a path for women of color to lead. I am committed to uplifting the history and contributions of Black women and all women of color, sharing our stories, and advancing our collective pursuit of true racial justice within the policies, structures, and practices of both church and state. I also honor those who came before us and reaffirm my commitment to lead with boldness, equity, and justice for all.”

“This Black History Month and every month, United Women in Faith is committed to the pursuit of racial justice and the recognition of the remarkable contributions of Black communities. We also recognize that Black history is being written in real time, and we are grateful for our sisters and neighbors who lead us forward today. As we combat the school-to-prison pipeline and threats to an honest telling of history, we invite all to join us on the path for racial equity, justice, and liberation.”

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United Women in Faith is the largest denominational organization for women in the United States.