A gathering showcasing the strength and resilience of Black women at the Philadelphia Luncheon.
The 39th Annual Madam C.J. Walker Luncheon in Philadelphia honored Sylvia G. Webster for her contributions to the community and empowerment of women of color. The event highlighted the importance of Black women’s achievements while continuing the legacy of Madam C.J. Walker.
April is a time of celebration for Black women, and it certainly shone brightly at the 39th Annual Madam C.J. Walker Luncheon held in Philadelphia. This year, a very special award was presented to Sylvia G. Webster for her remarkable contributions to the community and the empowerment of women of color.
Sylvia G. Webster triumphed as the very first president of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Pennsylvania Chapter, Inc. (NCBW100 PA, Inc.). It’s hard to imagine how different things might be if she hadn’t taken that life-changing train ride from Washington, D.C. to Philadelphia. Onboard, she had a pivotal conversation with Jewell Jackson McCabe, who shared her vision for establishing a chapter of the Coalition in Philadelphia. After some thoughtful discussion, Webster took the leap and became the force behind this impactful initiative, which goes on to empower women across the region.
The founding members of the NCBW100 PA, Inc. included trailblazers like City Councilwoman Marian B. Tasco and the late City Councilwoman Augusta Clark. It’s clear that the Coalition has served as a vital platform for civic engagement, not just for Webster, but for many women who have built strong bonds and a unified mission to uplift one another.
In honor of Webster’s immense influence and the legacy she created, the Sylvia G. Webster Legacy Award was established in 2020 specifically to acknowledge a member of NCBW100 PA who aligns with her commitment to advocacy in key areas, such as health, education, economic empowerment, and public policy. This year’s recipient received a heartfelt tribute during the prestigious Madam C.J. Walker Luncheon, making it a memorable moment for all attendees.
The Madam C.J. Walker Luncheon, which has been a Philadelphia staple since 1985, celebrates extraordinary Black women excelling in various fields, while also keeping the spirit of the renowned Madam C.J. Walker alive. Walker was not just an entrepreneur who made history; she was a beacon of hope and empowerment for countless African American women. The coalition has continuously honored trailblazing African American businesswomen in the Delaware Valley region through these awards, highlighting their achievements and contributions to the community.
The event, originally held at the Four Seasons Hotel in Philadelphia, has grown significantly over the years. Each year, a dedicated nominations subcommittee painstakingly reviews potential award finalists, striving to ensure that the legacy of Madam C.J. Walker remains a profound inspiration for generations to come. It underscores the importance of recognizing not just individual accomplishments but also collective successes in the broader story of advocacy and empowerment.
As April continues with its unwavering recognition of Black women, celebrations like the Madam C.J. Walker Luncheon remind everyone of the significance of supporting one another towards shared goals and dreams. Each award, each speech, and each moment spent uplifted together stands as a testament to the strength, resilience, and unwavering spirit of Black women in the community.
The legacy of Sylvia G. Webster and the Coalition she helped establish continues to thrive, ensuring that the voices and contributions of Black women are not only acknowledged but celebrated for years to come. So here’s to the spirit of camaraderie, empowerment, and unyielding strength – our journey together is just getting started!
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