Exclusive: Dorothy Height celebrates 95th birthday with style and grace
Black dignitaries and leaders turn out for private affair
March 21, 2007 – Wash, DC – (BlackPressMagazine.com) – A couple hundred of her closest friends, dignitaries and political leaders gathered today for the 95th birthday of Black icon, Dorothy Irene Height.
The event took place at the headquarters for the National Council on Negro Women, which is located at 633 Pennsylvania Ave, NW, the site of a failed mission of the Underground Railroad.
"We're so fortunate to be in between the Capitol and the White House," said Height. "Years ago, some seventy slaves tried to escape to the Underground Railroad but were captured and returned to this very spot, so we feel we deserve to be here."
Former labor secretary Alexis Herman was the mistress of ceremony and key speakers like author/activist Dick Gregory, former Essence executive Susan Taylor and two Black aides to the White House joined well wishers at the private event. With a cusine of tasty soul food and a zesty orange punch, the party felt more like a family reunion than a birthday party yet held all the historic significance that an event like this deserved. Gifts, flowers and cards were everywhere. Automotive giant General Motors donated a brand new "black on black" Cadillac to Height for her birthday.
"I've been walking around with this toy car, now I have the real thing. I can't believe I have a cadillac," she said.
For over half a century, Height has fought for the equality and human rights of all people. As the only female member of the "Big 6" civil rights leaders (Whitney Young, Jr., A. Philip Randolph, Martin Luther King, Jr., James Farmer, and Roy Wilkins.), Dr. Height is considered to be a living legend and an important figure in American history.Dr. Height's vision and dedication have made NCNW the premier organization in advocating for the health, education and economic empowerment for all women of African descent.
In honor of Dr. Height’s 95th birthday this March, and more than 74 years of national leadership, the NCNW is conducting a national membership drive. The organization is hoping that supporters will celebrate Height's amazing life and to show gratitude for her extraordinary leadership by donating $95, or any amount you wish to give to NCNW. The contribution will go a long way in securing the organization's missio of empowering African-American women and paying tribute to a champion for women, for all Americans and especially for people of African descent around the world.
Donations will help NCNW continue Dr. Height's legacy of:
- Championing women's and civil rights.
- Promoting leadership among women of color.
- Advancing the health, education and economic status of women of African descent.
- Celebrating and strengthening the African American family.
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