THE FOUNDING OF THE NCNW-NORTH SHORE STATEN ISLAND SECTION
Section History
Mrs. Louise Brown visited Mrs. Willie Mae Taylor (both deceased), in her home at 52 Harrison Avenue Staten Island, New York on a Wednesday afternoon, February, 1966. Their discussion centered on the average non-professional woman and her need to participate in community, social affairs and other than church activities. They agreed that the Women of Staten Island need more social and community involvement. The idea was brought to a group of women in the community. Out of this idea, the Women’s Council was organized with a beginning membership of thirty-five. Mrs. Louise Brown was elected President, Mrs. Willie Mae Taylor, Secretary and Mrs. Muriel Carrington, Treasurer. After the election of officers, a yearly calendar of activities was planned including education tours, sightseeing trips, movies and theater parties. The organization operated on monies obtained from fundraising activities and the assessment of yearly dues from each member.
The Women’s Council gave their first luncheon, April 24, 1967. The luncheon was held at the Plaza Casino on Castleton Avenue and the guest speaker was Mrs. Daisy George of the National Council of Negro Women. Mrs. George was impressed with the work of the Women’s Council and she expressed the potential of greater growth. She suggested that the Council become the National Council of Negro Women of Staten Island. Mrs. George’s interest led to her becoming the Coordinator. At the Regional Conference in Stratford, Connecticut, June 22, 1968, the Women’s Council received its charter and became officially known as the National Council of Negro Women, Inc., North Shore-Staten Island Section.