USA HISTORY

Detailed explanation-1: -Throughout her life she fought for equal rights for both African Americans and women. During the 1930s she was an activist against lynching and for reforms to the criminal justice system. In 1957, Height was appointed president of the National Council of Negro Women, which she led for 40 years.

Detailed explanation-2: -Her first job was as a social worker in Harlem, New York. She later joined the staff of the Harlem Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA). In no time, Height became a leader in the local organization. She created diverse programs and pushed the organization to integrate YWCA facilities nationwide.

Detailed explanation-3: -In 1965, she was appointed as the National Director of the Center for Racial Justice and tirelessly worked within YWCA to desegregate all levels of the organization.

Detailed explanation-4: -In 1994, President Bill Clinton awarded her the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the country’s highest civilian honor. In March 2004, as Height celebrated her 92nd birthday, President George W. Bush awarded her the Congressional Gold Medal, the most distinguished recognition given by Congress to individuals.

Detailed explanation-5: -Dorothy Height was National President of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority when I became a member in 1953.