Mary Church was one of the first Black women in the United States to receive a college degree, graduated from Oberlin College with a Bachelor’s degree in classics and master’s degree four years later in 1888. In 1892, Terrell was elected president of the famous Washington, D.C. Black discussion group “Bethel Literary and Historical Society,” the first woman to hold the position.
In 1913 Terrell joined the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, which had recently been formed, at Howard University. She was given a degree from Oberlin College in 1948, and an Honorary Degree from Howard and the Universities of Wilberforce.
Mary E. Church was born in Memphis, Tennessee into a family of former slaves, and her parents were divorced. Terrell was educated mainly in Ohio, a place she said she enjoyed. In explaining her Oberlin College experience, she said “it would be difficult for a colored girl to go through a white school with fewer unpleasant experiences occasioned by race prejudice than I had.” In 1886, she was given a job teaching in Washington, DC at the M Street Colored High School, working in the foreign language department with Robert Heberton Terrell.
In 1888 she completed her master’s degree. To improve her language competency, Mary Terrell took a two year absence to study in France, Switzerland, Italy, and Germany. When she returned to Washington, D.C., Mary and Robert kept working together, and their friendship blossomed. Both were married in great joy in 1891 but faced problems during the first five years of their marriage since the couple had three children who died shortly after their birth.
In 1895, Mary Church Terrell was selected as one of the three posts reserved for women by the District of Columbia Board of Education. The first Black woman to be a Board member was Terrell. Terrell took part in the meetings of the National Woman Suffrage Association among his professional and personal duties and met Susan B. Anthony.
The association and Anthony had allowed her to talk about suffering and its relationship with “colored women.” Her relationship with both problems led to potential interest in Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. The organization was involved early in the women’s suffrage movement, and was formed in Howard University on January 13, 1913. Then-51 year-old Terrell became an honorary member. Her husband died in 1925, and she spent the rest of her life in Washington, D.C.
She published her White World Colored Woman autobiography in 1940. One of the last segments explains how she wants to be involved when she gets older. Awards like the honorary Ph.D. from Oberlin College in 1948 in humane letters or equivalent honorary degrees from Howard and the University of Wilberforce appeared to motivate Terrell deeper into motion.
She also campaigned the National University of Women aggressively for the admission of Black people during her eighties. At the age of 91 Terrell dies only days before the decision of the Brown v. Board of Education which overturned the “separate yet equal” situation which she saw come and go.
Delta Sigma Theta’s Founding Principles
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. is a prominent African-American women’s organization founded in 1913 at Howard University. Delta Sigma Theta’s founding principles are based on the ideals of social action, community service, advocacy for education and scholarship, and commitment to sisterhood and leadership development.
Two of the key principles of Delta Sigma Theta are social activism and community service. Members of the sorority are dedicated to making a positive impact in their communities through various service projects and initiatives. They work to address social issues such as poverty, health disparities, and discrimination. They also encourage community engagement and civic participation, promoting the importance of voting and other forms of political activism.
Another important principle of Delta Sigma Theta is advocacy for education and scholarship. The sorority believes that education is a fundamental right, and members work to ensure that all individuals have access to quality education. Delta Sigma Theta supports educational initiatives at all levels, from early childhood education to higher education. The sorority also provides scholarships and other forms of financial support to help students achieve their academic goals.
Delta Sigma Theta is also committed to sisterhood and leadership development. Members of the sorority are encouraged to support and uplift one another, building strong bonds of friendship and sisterhood. The sorority also provides opportunities for leadership development, helping members to develop the skills and qualities needed to become effective leaders in their communities and beyond.
Delta Sigma Theta’s Impact on Civil Rights and Women’s Empowerment
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. has a rich history of active involvement in civil rights activism and social justice initiatives. Since its founding in 1913, the sorority has been at the forefront of the fight for racial equality, advocating for voting rights, fair housing, and an end to racial discrimination. Delta Sigma Theta members have participated in numerous marches, protests, and grassroots campaigns, using their collective voice and influence to effect meaningful change in communities across the United States.
The sorority played a significant role during the Civil Rights Movement, collaborating with other civil rights organizations and leaders, such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks. Delta Sigma Theta members joined forces with the larger movement to challenge segregation, promote desegregation, and advance the cause of civil rights for African Americans. Their contributions have been instrumental in shaping the trajectory of civil rights progress in America.
Delta Sigma Theta’s commitment to empowering women is evident through its various educational and leadership development initiatives. The sorority strongly emphasizes educational attainment and scholarship programs, providing support and resources to young women pursuing higher education. Through scholarships, mentoring, and workshops, Delta Sigma Theta fosters a culture of academic excellence and empowers women to succeed academically and beyond.
Delta Sigma Theta’s leadership development programs also equip women with the skills and knowledge necessary to become effective leaders in their communities. The sorority prioritizes cultivating leadership qualities, emphasizing the importance of advocacy, community service, and social activism. By nurturing the leadership potential of its members, Delta Sigma Theta has contributed to the advancement of women in various fields and empowered them to be agents of change in society.
The Legacy of Mary Church Terrell and Delta Sigma Theta
Mary Church Terrell’s legacy as a civil rights pioneer and women’s rights advocate is an inspiring example of courage and leadership. Terrell broke barriers as one of the first African American women to earn a college degree. He paved the way for future generations of African American women to pursue higher education and professional careers.
Her fearless activism in the fight against racial discrimination and her pivotal role in advancing civil rights and women’s suffrage have left an indelible mark on American history. Terrell’s dedication to uplifting her community and her unwavering commitment to justice inspires contemporary activists and serves as a guiding light in the ongoing struggle for equality and social justice.
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. carries forward the spirit of Mary Church Terrell’s activism, embodying her legacy of empowering women and advocating for civil rights. As one of the largest African American sororities in the United States, Delta Sigma Theta remains at the forefront of social change and community service. The sorority’s commitment to education, leadership development, and social action is reflected in its extensive programs and initiatives promoting academic excellence, fostering leadership skills, and addressing pressing social issues.
Delta Sigma Theta’s continued engagement in civil rights activism, voter registration drives, and initiatives to combat voter suppression demonstrate its dedication to creating a more just and equitable society. The sorority’s tireless efforts in advancing civil rights and empowering women exemplify the enduring impact of Mary Church Terrell’s vision and leadership in the ongoing pursuit of equality and social progress.
Citation:
- https://www.franbecque.com/mary-church-terrell-on-delta-sigma-thetas-founding-day/
- https://socialwelfare.library.vcu.edu/eras/terrell-mary-church/
- https://ww2.tnstate.edu/library/digital/terrell.htm