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Who can find a virtuous woman?

for her price is far above rubies. 

Proverbs 31:10

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A message from the First Lady of The Church of Philadelphia, Mrs. Emily Elisabeth Nuñez.
 

Who, the bible asks, can find a virtuous woman?  Where is the woman of honor; the woman of righteousness?  Where is the woman who demands respect and who is concerned about her reputation? 

The woman of virtue is found in her home, helping her husband and caring for her children.  She is in the church, being a role model for the young women and teaching the children about the saving grace of Jesus Christ.  She can be found in the workplace, providing guidance and leadership to her peers and subordinates.

 

God’s woman is all these things.  She is secure in her femininity, but has no need to charm and manipulate to get her way.  And because she looks to her heavenly Father to lead her to the right husband, she knows that her husband loves her as Christ loves the church.  She, therefore, embraces submissiveness, and does not rebel against it. 

God’s woman is high quality and seeks holiness.  She desires a true form of godliness and acknowledges God’s power.  She turns away from those silly women who are led away by their lusts, and seeks friends of equal yoke.  She concerns herself with storing up treasures in heaven and the things of God.

 

God’s woman is every color and every race.  She lives on every continent and in every country.  She lives in the worst slums and in the richest mansions.  God’s woman does not judge others by the color of their skin or the amount of money in their bank account.  She cherishes God’s creation, but loves God above all.

 

Who can find a virtuous woman?  For her price is far above rubies.  She is treasured by her husband and respected by her children.  She is esteemed by her colleagues and admired by her friends. 

 

God’s woman carries His love in her heart and reflects His love in the mirror of her soul.  

 

For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known. 1 Corinthians 13:12

 

 

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WOMEN OF VIRTUE

Phillis Wheatley

1753 – 1784

Slave, Published Author and Poet,

Successfully defended literary ability in court

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Mary McLeod Bethune

1875 - 1955

Born to Former Slaves, Master Educator, Humanitarian, Civil Rights  and Social Activist,  Founder of Daytona School for Negro Girls, Founded Hospitals and High Schools for Black Americans, President of Bethune-Cookman College, Helped to Integrate the Red Cross, Worked to Outlaw and Raise Awareness of Lynching, Director of Division of Negro Affairs becoming first Black American to Head a Federal Agency, Worked with or Headed NAACP, National Association of Colored Women, National Council of Negro Women, Urban League, Association of American Colleges and The League of Women Voters, Member of Roosevelt’s Black Cabinet and Truman’s Committee of Twelve for National Defense

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SARAH

 

Genesis 17:15-22 And God said unto Abraham, As for Sarai thy wife, thou shalt not call her name Sarai, but Sarah shall her name be. 16 And I will bless her, and give thee a son also of her: yea, I will bless her, and she shall be a mother of nations; kings of people shall be of her. 17 Then Abraham fell upon his face, and laughed, and said in his heart, Shall a child be born unto him that is an hundred years old? and shall Sarah, that is ninety years old, bear? 18 And Abraham said unto God, O that Ishmael might live before thee! 19 And God said, Sarah thy wife shall bear thee a son indeed; and thou shalt call his name Isaac: and I will establish my covenant with him for an everlasting covenant, and with his seed after him. 20 And as for Ishmael, I have heard thee: Behold, I have blessed him, and will make him fruitful, and will multiply him exceedingly; twelve princes shall he beget, and I will make him a great nation. 21 But my covenant will I establish with Isaac, which Sarah shall bear unto thee at this set time in the next year. 22 And he left off talking with him, and God went up from Abraham.

Genesis 21:1-8 And the LORD visited Sarah as he had said, and the LORD did unto Sarah as he had spoken. 2 For Sarah conceived, and bare Abraham a son in his old age, at the set time of which God had spoken to him. 3 And Abraham called the name of his son that was born unto him, whom Sarah bare to him, Isaac. 4 And Abraham circumcised his son Isaac being eight days old, as God had commanded him. 5 And Abraham was an hundred years old, when his son Isaac was born unto him. 6 And Sarah said, God hath made me to laugh, so that all that hear will laugh with me. 7 And she said, Who would have said unto Abraham, that Sarah should have given children suck? for I have born him a son in his old age. 8 And the child grew, and was weaned: and Abraham made a great feast the same day that Isaac was weaned.

Genesis 23:1-2 And Sarah was an hundred and seven and twenty years old: these were the years of the life of Sarah. 2 And Sarah died in Kirjatharba; the same is Hebron in the land of Canaan: and Abraham came to mourn for Sarah, and to weep for her.

1 Chronicles 1:34 And Abraham begat Isaac. The sons of Isaac; Esau and Israel.

 

Acts 7:8 And he gave him the covenant of circumcision: and so Abraham begat Isaac, and circumcised him the eighth day; and Isaac begat Jacob; and Jacob begat the twelve patriarchs.

Condoleeza Rice

First African American woman to serve as United States  Secretary of State (January 2006 – Present), former National Security Advisor (2001-2005), and former Stanford University Provost and Professor.

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Aaliyah Dana Haughton

1979 - 2001

R&B and Pop Vocalist, Model, Film Actor,

Dancer, Academy Award Nominee,

First and Youngest African American

Woman to Perform at the Oscars

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Josephine Baker

1906 - 1975

Dancer, Singer, Film Actress, Vaudeville Entertainer,

Starred at Folies Bergere, Civil Rights and Social Activist,

Nazi Resistance Member, Awarded Croix de Guerre,

Helped Integrate Shows in Las Vegas, Nevada by Refusing

to Perform before Segregated Audiences, Buried with French

Military Honors, Inducted into St. Louis Walk of Fame

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REBEKAH

Genesis 24:1-4 And Abraham was old, and well stricken in age: and the LORD had blessed Abraham in all things. 2 And Abraham said unto his eldest servant of his house, that ruled over all that he had, Put, I pray thee, thy hand under my thigh: 3 And I will make thee swear by the LORD, the God of heaven, and the God of the earth, that thou shalt not take a wife unto my son of the daughters of the Canaanites, among whom I dwell: 4 But thou shalt go unto my country, and to my kindred, and take a wife unto my son Isaac.

Genesis 24:58-67 And they called Rebekah, and said unto her, Wilt thou go with this man? And she said, I will go. 59 And they sent away Rebekah their sister, and her nurse, and Abraham's servant, and his men. 60 And they blessed Rebekah, and said unto her, Thou art our sister, be thou the mother of thousands of millions, and let thy seed possess the gate of those which hate them. 61 And Rebekah arose, and her damsels, and they rode upon the camels, and followed the man: and the servant took Rebekah, and went his way.

62 And Isaac came from the way of the well Lahairoi; for he dwelt in the south country. 63 And Isaac went out to meditate in the field at the eventide: and he lifted up his eyes, and saw, and, behold, the camels were coming. 64 And Rebekah lifted up her eyes, and when she saw Isaac, she lighted off the camel. 65 For she had said unto the servant, What man is this that walketh in the field to meet us? And the servant had said, It is my master: therefore she took a vail, and covered herself. 66 And the servant told Isaac all things that he had done. 67 And Isaac brought her into his mother Sarah's tent, and took Rebekah, and she became his wife; and he loved her: and Isaac was comforted after his mother's death.

Genesis 25:19-28 And these are the generations of Isaac, Abraham's son: Abraham begat Isaac: 20 And Isaac was forty years old when he took Rebekah to wife, the daughter of Bethuel the Syrian of Padanaram, the sister to Laban the Syrian. 21 And Isaac intreated the LORD for his wife, because she was barren: and the LORD was intreated of him, and Rebekah his wife conceived. 22 And the children struggled together within her; and she said, If it be so, why am I thus? And she went to enquire of the LORD. 23 And the LORD said unto her, Two nations are in thy womb, and two manner of people shall be separated from thy bowels; and the one people shall be stronger than the other people; and the elder shall serve the younger. 24 And when her days to be delivered were fulfilled, behold, there were twins in her womb. 25 And the first came out red, all over like an hairy garment; and they called his name Esau. 26 And after that came his brother out, and his hand took hold on Esau's heel; and his name was called Jacob: and Isaac was threescore years old when she bare them. 27 And the boys grew: and Esau was a cunning hunter, a man of the field; and Jacob was a plain man, dwelling in tents. 28 And Isaac loved Esau, because he did eat of his venison: but Rebekah loved Jacob.

Romans 9:10-12 And not only this; but when Rebecca also had conceived by one, even by our father Isaac; 11 (For the children being not yet born, neither having done any good or evil, that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works, but of him that calleth;) 12 It was said unto her, The elder shall serve the younger.

Micah Materre

WGN News Anchor, Emmy Award Winning Reporter,

Michigan Association of Broadcasters Honoree,

UNCF Honorary Chairperson, Community Activist

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Sharon Bruneau

Fashion and Fitness Model,

Professional International Bodybuilder,

 Professional Fitness Olympia Contestant, Film Actor

Harriet Tubman

1820 -1913

Former Slave, Abolitionist, Underground Railroad Leader,

Union Army Raid Leader and Spy, Social Activist

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RACHEL

 

Genesis 29:11-14 And Jacob kissed Rachel, and lifted up his voice, and wept. 12 And Jacob told Rachel that he was her father's brother, and that he was Rebekah's son: and she ran and told her father. 13 And it came to pass, when Laban heard the tidings of Jacob his sister's son, that he ran to meet him, and embraced him, and kissed him, and brought him to his house. And he told Laban all these things. 14 And Laban said to him, Surely thou art my bone and my flesh. And he abode with him the space of a month.

 

Genesis 29:18-30 And Jacob loved Rachel; and said, I will serve thee seven years for Rachel thy younger daughter. 19 And Laban said, It is better that I give her to thee, than that I should give her to another man: abide with me. 20 And Jacob served seven years for Rachel; and they seemed unto him but a few days, for the love he had to her. 21 And Jacob said unto Laban, Give me my wife, for my days are fulfilled, that I may go in unto her. 22 And Laban gathered together all the men of the place, and made a feast. 23 And it came to pass in the evening, that he took Leah his daughter, and brought her to him; and he went in unto her. 24 And Laban gave unto his daughter Leah Zilpah his maid for an handmaid. 25 And it came to pass, that in the morning, behold, it was Leah: and he said to Laban, What is this thou hast done unto me? did not I serve with thee for Rachel? wherefore then hast thou beguiled me? 26 And Laban said, It must not be so done in our country, to give the younger before the firstborn. 27 Fulfil her week, and we will give thee this also for the service which thou shalt serve with me yet seven other years. 28 And Jacob did so, and fulfilled her week: and he gave him Rachel his daughter to wife also. 29 And Laban gave to Rachel his daughter Bilhah his handmaid to be her maid. 30 And he went in also unto Rachel, and he loved also Rachel more than Leah, and served with him yet seven other years.

 

Genesis 30:22-24 And God remembered Rachel, and God hearkened to her, and opened her womb. 23 And she conceived, and bare a son; and said, God hath taken away my reproach: 24 And she called his name Joseph; and said, The LORD shall add to me another son.

Genesis 35:16-20 And they journeyed from Bethel; and there was but a little way to come to Ephrath: and Rachel travailed, and she had hard labour. 17 And it came to pass, when she was in hard labour, that the midwife said unto her, Fear not; thou shalt have this son also. 18 And it came to pass, as her soul was in departing, (for she died) that she called his name Benoni: but his father called him Benjamin. 19 And Rachel died, and was buried in the way to Ephrath, which is Bethlehem. 20 And Jacob set a pillar upon her grave: that is the pillar of Rachel's grave unto this day.

Genesis 35:24 The sons of Rachel; Joseph, and Benjamin:

 

Genesis 37:Now Israel loved Joseph more than all his children, because he was the son of his old age: and he made him a coat of many colours.

 

Genesis 41:38-44 And Pharaoh said unto his servants, Can we find such a one as this is, a man in whom the Spirit of God is? 39 And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, Forasmuch as God hath shewed thee all this, there is none so discreet and wise as thou art: 40 Thou shalt be over my house, and according unto thy word shall all my people be ruled: only in the throne will I be greater than thou. 41 And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, See, I have set thee over all the land of Egypt. 42 And Pharaoh took off his ring from his hand, and put it upon Joseph's hand, and arrayed him in vestures of fine linen, and put a gold chain about his neck; 43 And he made him to ride in the second chariot which he had; and they cried before him, Bow the knee: and he made him ruler over all the land of Egypt. 44 And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, I am Pharaoh, and without thee shall no man lift up his hand or foot in all the land of Egypt.

 

 

Alicia Keys

R&B and Soul Vocalist, Songwriter, Composer, Record and Television Producer, Actor, Pianist, Multiple Grammy Award Winner, Multiple Billboard Award Winner, Multiple American Music Award Winner, Named Time Magazine 2005 One of the Most Influential People in the World, Humanitarian

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Madame C.J. Walker

1867 - 1919

Philanthropist, First American Female Self-Made Millionaire, Entrepreneur, Humanitarian

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Celia Cruz

1925 - 2003

World renown Afro-Cuban Salsa Singer, Earned 22 Gold Albums, Appeared at Carnegie Hall, Grammy Award Winner, Television Entertainer, Film Actor, Posthumously Awarded Best Salsa Release of 2004

DEBORAH

Judges 4:4-9 And Deborah, a prophetess, the wife of Lapidoth, she judged Israel at that time. 5 And she dwelt under the palm tree of Deborah between Ramah and Bethel in mount Ephraim: and the children of Israel came up to her for judgment. 6 And she sent and called Barak the son of Abinoam out of Kedeshnaphtali, and said unto him, Hath not the LORD God of Israel commanded, saying, Go and draw toward mount Tabor, and take with thee ten thousand men of the children of Naphtali and of the children of Zebulun? 7 And I will draw unto thee to the river Kishon Sisera, the captain of Jabin's army, with his chariots and his multitude; and I will deliver him into thine hand. 8 And Barak said unto her, If thou wilt go with me, then I will go: but if thou wilt not go with me, then I will not go. 9 And she said, I will surely go with thee: notwithstanding the journey that thou takest shall not be for thine honour; for the LORD shall sell Sisera into the hand of a woman. And Deborah arose, and went with Barak to Kedesh.

Judges 4:14-16 And Deborah said unto Barak, Up; for this is the day in which the LORD hath delivered Sisera into thine hand: is not the LORD gone out before thee? So Barak went down from mount Tabor, and ten thousand men after him. 15 And the LORD discomfited Sisera, and all his chariots, and all his host, with the edge of the sword before Barak; so that Sisera lighted down off his chariot, and fled away on his feet. 16 But Barak pursued after the chariots, and after the host, unto Harosheth of the Gentiles: and all the host of Sisera fell upon the edge of the sword; and there was not a man left.

Judges 5:1-5 Then sang Deborah and Barak the son of Abinoam on that day, saying, 2 Praise ye the LORD for the avenging of Israel, when the people willingly offered themselves. 3 Hear, O ye kings; give ear, O ye princes; I, even I, will sing unto the LORD; I will sing praise to the LORD God of Israel. 4 LORD, when thou wentest out of Seir, when thou marchedst out of the field of Edom, the earth trembled, and the heavens dropped, the clouds also dropped water. 5 The mountains melted from before the LORD, even that Sinai from before the LORD God of Israel.

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Marian Anderson

1897 - 1993

World renown African American Contralto, Known for Singing Stirring Rendition of America (My Country‘Tis of Thee) on the Steps of the Lincoln Memorial in 1939 after being Banned from Singing in Constitution Hall by the Daughters of the Revolution, Debuted at the New York Philharmonic in 1925, Performed at Carnegie Hall in 1928,  First African American to Perform at the New York Metropolitan in 1955, Delegate to the United Nations, Awarded United Nations Peace Prize, Grammy Award Winner for Lifetime Achievement, Awarded Silver Buffalo by Boy Scouts of America

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Hattie McDaniels

1895 – 1952

Film and Television Actor, Vaudeville, Recording and Radio Entertainer

First African American woman to win an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress

RUTH

 

Ruth 1:16 And Ruth said, Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God:

 

Ruth 3:10-11 And he said, Blessed be thou of the LORD, my daughter: for thou hast shewed more kindness in the latter end than at the beginning, inasmuch as thou followedst not young men, whether poor or rich. 11 And now, my daughter, fear not; I will do to thee all that thou requirest: for all the city of my people doth know that thou art a virtuous woman.

Ruth 4:13-22 So Boaz took Ruth, and she was his wife: and when he went in unto her, the LORD gave her conception, and she bare a son. 14 And the women said unto Naomi, Blessed be the LORD, which hath not left thee this day without a kinsman, that his name may be famous in Israel. 15 And he shall be unto thee a restorer of thy life, and a nourisher of thine old age: for thy daughter in law, which loveth thee, which is better to thee than seven sons, hath born him. 16 And Naomi took the child, and laid it in her bosom, and became nurse unto it. 17 And the women her neighbours gave it a name, saying, There is a son born to Naomi; and they called his name Obed: he is the father of Jesse, the father of David. 18 Now these are the generations of Pharez: Pharez begat Hezron, 19 And Hezron begat Ram, and Ram begat Amminadab, 20 And Amminadab begat Nahshon, and Nahshon begat Salmon, 21 And Salmon begat Boaz, and Boaz begat Obed, 22 And Obed begat Jesse, and Jesse begat David.

Matthew 1:6-16 And Jesse begat David the king; and David the king begat Solomon of her that had been the wife of Urias; 7 And Solomon begat Roboam; and Roboam begat Abia; and Abia begat Asa; 8 And Asa begat Josaphat; and Josaphat begat Joram; and Joram begat Ozias; 9 And Ozias begat Joatham; and Joatham begat Achaz; and Achaz begat Ezekias; 10 And Ezekias begat Manasses; and Manasses begat Amon; and Amon begat Josias; 11 And Josias begat Jechonias and his brethren, about the time they were carried away to Babylon: 12 And after they were brought to Babylon, Jechonias begat Salathiel; and Salathiel begat Zorobabel; 13 And Zorobabel begat Abiud; and Abiud begat Eliakim; and Eliakim begat Azor; 14 And Azor begat Sadoc; and Sadoc begat Achim; and Achim begat Eliud; 15 And Eliud begat Eleazar; and Eleazar begat Matthan; and Matthan begat Jacob; 16 And Jacob begat Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.

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Ketara “KeKe” Wyatt

R&B, Urban Vocalist, Songwriter

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Wilma Glodean Rudolph

1940 - 1994

World Class Track and Field Athlete, Olympic Gold and Bronze Medal Winner,

James E. Sullivan Award Winner, Teacher, Coach, Sports Commentator

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Ann Curry

Network News Anchor, Emmy Award Winner, Golden Mike Award Winner, Associated Press Certificate of Excellence, Gracie Award Winner, NAACP Excellence in Reporting, Humanitarian

HANNAH

1 Samuel 1:1-8  Now there was a certain man of Ramathaimzophim, of mount Ephraim, and his name was Elkanah, the son of Jeroham, the son of Elihu, the son of Tohu, the son of Zuph, an Ephrathite: 2 And he had two wives; the name of the one was Hannah, and the name of the other Peninnah: and Peninnah had children, but Hannah had no children. 3 And this man went up out of his city yearly to worship and to sacrifice unto the LORD of hosts in Shiloh. And the two sons of Eli, Hophni and Phinehas, the priests of the LORD, were there. 4 And when the time was that Elkanah offered, he gave to Peninnah his wife, and to all her sons and her daughters, portions: 5 But unto Hannah he gave a worthy portion; for he loved Hannah: but the LORD had shut up her womb. 6 And her adversary also provoked her sore, for to make her fret, because the LORD had shut up her womb. 7 And as he did so year by year, when she went up to the house of the LORD, so she provoked her; therefore she wept, and did not eat. 8 Then said Elkanah her husband to her, Hannah, why weepest thou? and why eatest thou not? and why is thy heart grieved? am not I better to thee than ten sons?

1 Samuel 1:15-20 And Hannah answered and said, No, my lord, I am a woman of a sorrowful spirit: I have drunk neither wine nor strong drink, but have poured out my soul before the LORD. 16 Count not thine handmaid for a daughter of Belial: for out of the abundance of my complaint and grief have I spoken hitherto. 17 Then Eli answered and said, Go in peace: and the God of Israel grant thee thy petition that thou hast asked of him. 18 And she said, Let thine handmaid find grace in thy sight. So the woman went her way, and did eat, and her countenance was no more sad.

19 And they rose up in the morning early, and worshipped before the LORD, and returned, and came to their house to Ramah: and Elkanah knew Hannah his wife; and the LORD remembered her. 20 Wherefore it came to pass, when the time was come about after Hannah had conceived, that she bare a son, and called his name Samuel, saying, Because I have asked him of the LORD.

1 Samuel 1: 24-28 And when she had weaned him, she took him up with her, with three bullocks, and one ephah of flour, and a bottle of wine, and brought him unto the house of the LORD in Shiloh: and the child was young. 25 And they slew a bullock, and brought the child to Eli. 26 And she said, Oh my lord, as thy soul liveth, my lord, I am the woman that stood by thee here, praying unto the LORD. 27 For this child I prayed; and the LORD hath given me my petition which I asked of him: 28 Therefore also I have lent him to the LORD; as long as he liveth he shall be lent to the LORD. And he worshipped the LORD there.

 

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Vanessa L.Williams

American R&B/pop/theatrical singer and actress. In 1983, she made history when she became the first African American to be crowned Miss America.

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Roxann Dawson

Film, Television and Broadway Actor, Television Director, Playwright, ALMA Award Winner, ALMA Special Achievement Award Winner

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Pearl Bailey

1918 – 1990

Singer, Broadway, Film and Television Actor, Theology Baccalaureate,

Awarded Presidential Medal of Freedom

MAKEDA, THE QUEEN OF SHEBA

1 Kings 10:1-13 And when the queen of Sheba heard of the fame of Solomon concerning the name of the LORD, she came to prove him with hard questions. 2 And she came to Jerusalem with a very great train, with camels that bare spices, and very much gold, and precious stones: and when she was come to Solomon, she communed with him of all that was in her heart. 3 And Solomon told her all her questions: there was not any thing hid from the king, which he told her not. 4 And when the queen of Sheba had seen all Solomon's wisdom, and the house that he had built, 5 And the meat of his table, and the sitting of his servants, and the attendance of his ministers, and their apparel, and his cupbearers, and his ascent by which he went up unto the house of the LORD; there was no more spirit in her. 6 And she said to the king, It was a true report that I heard in mine own land of thy acts and of thy wisdom. 7 Howbeit I believed not the words, until I came, and mine eyes had seen it: and, behold, the half was not told me: thy wisdom and prosperity exceedeth the fame which I heard. 8 Happy are thy men, happy are these thy servants, which stand continually before thee, and that hear thy wisdom. 9 Blessed be the LORD thy God, which delighted in thee, to set thee on the throne of Israel: because the LORD loved Israel for ever, therefore made he thee king, to do judgment and justice. 10 And she gave the king an hundred and twenty talents of gold, and of spices very great store, and precious stones: there came no more such abundance of spices as these which the queen of Sheba gave to king Solomon. 11 And the navy also of Hiram, that brought gold from Ophir, brought in from Ophir great plenty of almug trees, and precious stones. 12 And the king made of the almug trees pillars for the house of the LORD, and for the king's house, harps also and psalteries for singers: there came no such almug trees, nor were seen unto this day. 13 And king Solomon gave unto the queen of Sheba all her desire, whatsoever she asked, beside that which Solomon gave her of his royal bounty. So she turned and went to her own country, she and her servants.

Matthew 12:42

42 The queen of the south shall rise up in the judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it: for she came from the uttermost parts of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and, behold, a greater than Solomon is here.

Luke 11:31

 

31 The queen of the south shall rise up in the judgment with the men of this generation, and condemn them: for she came from the utmost parts of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and, behold, a greater than Solomon is here.

 

Lena Horne

Film and Broadway Actor, Singer, Grammy Award Winner

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Rachael Ray

Celebrity Chef, Host of Four Television

Programs on Food Network, Cookbook

Author of 30 Minute Meals Series,

Television Talk Show Host, Launched

Self Titled Magazine in 2005,

Endorses Various Cookware and Cutlery

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Syleena Johnson

R&B Vocalist, Songwriter,

VMA Award Nominee, Grammy Award Nominee,

Billboard Award Nominee, BET Award Nominee,

Vibe Award Nominee, Truth Award Winner,

Chicago Music Award for Best Female Vocalist,  Fashion Model

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ESTHER

 

Esther 2:7 And he brought up Hadassah, that is, Esther, his uncle's daughter: for she had neither father nor mother, and the maid was fair and beautiful; whom Mordecai, when her father and mother were dead, took for his own daughter.

 

Esther 2:15-17 Now when the turn of Esther, the daughter of Abihail the uncle of Mordecai, who had taken her for his daughter, was come to go in unto the king, she required nothing but what Hegai the king's chamberlain, the keeper of the women, appointed. And Esther obtained favour in the sight of all them that looked upon her. 16 So Esther was taken unto king Ahasuerus into his house royal in the tenth month, which is the month Tebeth, in the seventh year of his reign. 17 And the king loved Esther above all the women, and she obtained grace and favour in his sight more than all the virgins; so that he set the royal crown upon her head, and made her queen instead of Vashti.

 

Esther 3:12-13 Then were the king's scribes called on the thirteenth day of the first month, and there was written according to all that Haman had commanded unto the king's lieutenants, and to the governors that were over every province, and to the rulers of every people of every province according to the writing thereof, and to every people after their language; in the name of king Ahasuerus was it written, and sealed with the king's ring. 13 And the letters were sent by posts into all the king's provinces, to destroy, to kill, and to cause to perish, all Jews, both young and old, little children and women, in one day, even upon the thirteenth day of the twelfth month, which is the month Adar, and to take the spoil of them for a prey.

 

Esther 4:9-17 And Hatach came and told Esther the words of Mordecai. 10 Again Esther spake unto Hatach, and gave him commandment unto Mordecai; 11 All the king's servants, and the people of the king's provinces, do know, that whosoever, whether man or woman, shall come unto the king into the inner court, who is not called, there is one law of his to put him to death, except such to whom the king shall hold out the golden sceptre, that he may live: but I have not been called to come in unto the king these thirty days. 12 And they told to Mordecai Esther's words. 13 Then Mordecai commanded to answer Esther, Think not with thyself that thou shalt escape in the king's house, more than all the Jews. 14 For if thou altogether holdest thy peace at this time, then shall there enlargement and deliverance arise to the Jews from another place; but thou and thy father's house shall be destroyed: and who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this? 15 Then Esther bade them return Mordecai this answer, 16 Go, gather together all the Jews that are present in Shushan, and fast ye for me, and neither eat nor drink three days, night or day: I also and my maidens will fast likewise; and so will I go in unto the king, which is not according to the law: and if I perish, I perish. 17 So Mordecai went his way, and did according to all that Esther had commanded him.

Lisa Tucker

Vocalist, Stage and Musical Theater Actor, American Idol Finalist

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Suzanne Malveaux

Television News Journalist,

CNN Washington Bureau Correspondent

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Giselle Fernandez

Television Journalist, Reporter and News Anchor, Emmy Award Winner, Author

Esther 5:1-8 Now it came to pass on the third day, that Esther put on her royal apparel, and stood in the inner court of the king's house, over against the king's house: and the king sat upon his royal throne in the royal house, over against the gate of the house. 2 And it was so, when the king saw Esther the queen standing in the court, that she obtained favour in his sight: and the king held out to Esther the golden sceptre that was in his hand. So Esther drew near, and touched the top of the sceptre. 3 Then said the king unto her, What wilt thou, queen Esther? and what is thy request? it shall be even given thee to the half of the kingdom. 4 And Esther answered, If it seem good unto the king, let the king and Haman come this day unto the banquet that I have prepared for him. 5 Then the king said, Cause Haman to make haste, that he may do as Esther hath said. So the king and Haman came to the banquet that Esther had prepared. 6 And the king said unto Esther at the banquet of wine, What is thy petition? and it shall be granted thee: and what is thy request? even to the half of the kingdom it shall be performed. 7 Then answered Esther, and said, My petition and my request is; 8 If I have found favour in the sight of the king, and if it please the king to grant my petition, and to perform my request, let the king and Haman come to the banquet that I shall prepare for them, and I will do to morrow as the king hath said.

Esther 7:1-10 So the king and Haman came to banquet with Esther the queen. 2 And the king said again unto Esther on the second day at the banquet of wine, What is thy petition, queen Esther? and it shall be granted thee: and what is thy request? and it shall be performed, even to the half of the kingdom. 3 Then Esther the queen answered and said, If I have found favour in thy sight, O king, and if it please the king, let my life be given me at my petition, and my people at my request: 4 For we are sold, I and my people, to be destroyed, to be slain, and to perish. But if we had been sold for bondmen and bondwomen, I had held my tongue, although the enemy could not countervail the king's damage. 5 Then the king Ahasuerus answered and said unto Esther the queen, Who is he, and where is he, that durst presume in his heart to do so? 6 And Esther said, The adversary and enemy is this wicked Haman. Then Haman was afraid before the king and the queen.

7 And the king arising from the banquet of wine in his wrath went into the palace garden: and Haman stood up to make request for his life to Esther the queen; for he saw that there was evil determined against him by the king. 8 Then the king returned out of the palace garden into the place of the banquet of wine; and Haman was fallen upon the bed whereon Esther was. Then said the king, Will he force the queen also before me in the house? As the word went out of the king's mouth, they covered Haman's face. 9 And Harbonah, one of the chamberlains, said before the king, Behold also, the gallows fifty cubits high, which Haman had made for Mordecai, who had spoken good for the king, standeth in the house of Haman. Then the king said, Hang him thereon. 10 So they hanged Haman on the gallows that he had prepared for Mordecai. Then was the king's wrath pacified.

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Julia Stiles

Film, Stage and Television Actor, MTV Movie Award Winner, Teen Choice Award Winner, Humanitarian

Kelly Rowland

R&B and Pop Vocalist, Songwriter, Founding Member of

Successful Vocal Group Destiny’s Child, Multiple Grammy Award Winner, Actor

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Dorothy Dandridge

1922 – 1965

Film Actor, Television Entertainer, Singer, Civil Rights Activist,

First African American woman nominated for Best Actress Academy Award,

First African American to appear on cover of Life Magazine

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ELISABETH

Luke 1:5-25 There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judaea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the course of Abia: and his wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elisabeth. 6 And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless. 7 And they had no child, because that Elisabeth was barren, and they both were now well stricken in years. 8 And it came to pass, that while he executed the priest's office before God in the order of his course, 9 According to the custom of the priest's office, his lot was to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord. 10 And the whole multitude of the people were praying without at the time of incense. 11 And there appeared unto him an angel of the Lord standing on the right side of the altar of incense. 12 And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him. 13 But the angel said unto him, Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John. 14 And thou shalt have joy and gladness; and many shall rejoice at his birth. 15 For he shall be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink; and he shall be filled with the Holy Ghost, even from his mother's womb. 16 And many of the children of Israel shall he turn to the Lord their God. 17 And he shall go before him in the spirit and power of Elias, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just; to make ready a people prepared for the Lord. 18 And Zacharias said unto the angel, Whereby shall I know this? for I am an old man, and my wife well stricken in years. 19 And the angel answering said unto him, I am Gabriel, that stand in the presence of God; and am sent to speak unto thee, and to shew thee these glad tidings. 20 And, behold, thou shalt be dumb, and not able to speak, until the day that these things shall be performed, because thou believest not my words, which shall be fulfilled in their season. 21 And the people waited for Zacharias, and marvelled that he tarried so long in the temple. 22 And when he came out, he could not speak unto them: and they perceived that he had seen a vision in the temple: for he beckoned unto them, and remained speechless. 23 And it came to pass, that, as soon as the days of his ministration were accomplished, he departed to his own house. 24 And after those days his wife Elisabeth conceived, and hid herself five months, saying, 25 Thus hath the Lord dealt with me in the days wherein he looked on me, to take away my reproach among men.

Klea Scott

Film, Television and Stage Actor

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Nicole de Boer

Television and Film Actor

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Kimberly Locke

Adult Contemporary and Pop Vocalist,

American Idol Finalist

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Rosario Dawson

Film and Stage Actor

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Luke 1:36-45 And, behold, thy cousin Elisabeth, she hath also conceived a son in her old age: and this is the sixth month with her, who was called barren. 37 For with God nothing shall be impossible. 38 And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word. And the angel departed from her.

 

39 And Mary arose in those days, and went into the hill country with haste, into a city of Juda; 40 And entered into the house of Zacharias, and saluted Elisabeth. 41 And it came to pass, that, when Elisabeth heard the salutation of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb; and Elisabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost: 42 And she spake out with a loud voice, and said, Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb. 43 And whence is this to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? 44 For, lo, as soon as the voice of thy salutation sounded in mine ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy. 45 And blessed is she that believed: for there shall be a performance of those things which were told her from the Lord.

Luke 1:57-66 Now Elisabeth's full time came that she should be delivered; and she brought forth a son. 58 And her neighbours and her cousins heard how the Lord had shewed great mercy upon her; and they rejoiced with her. 59 And it came to pass, that on the eighth day they came to circumcise the child; and they called him Zacharias, after the name of his father. 60 And his mother answered and said, Not so; but he shall be called John. 61 And they said unto her, There is none of thy kindred that is called by this name. 62 And they made signs to his father, how he would have him called. 63 And he asked for a writing table, and wrote, saying, His name is John. And they marvelled all. 64 And his mouth was opened immediately, and his tongue loosed, and he spake, and praised God. 65 And fear came on all that dwelt round about them: and all these sayings were noised abroad throughout all the hill country of Judaea. 66 And all they that heard them laid them up in their hearts, saying, What manner of child shall this be! And the hand of the Lord was with him.

Matthew 3:1-6 In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judaea, 2 And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. 3 For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. 4 And the same John had his raiment of camel's hair, and a leathern girdle about his loins; and his meat was locusts and wild honey. 5 Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judaea, and all the region round about Jordan, 6 And were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins

Matthew 3:13-17 Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him. 14 But John forbad him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me? 15 And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered him. 16 And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him: 17 And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.

Jordin Sparks

Vocalist, Youngest American Idol Winner in its History,

Model, Music in the Rockies Competition Finalist, America’s Most Talented Kids Winner, Performed National Anthem at several Professional Sporting Events,

Toured with Christian Singer Michael W. Smith, Pro-Life Advocate

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Soledad O’Brien

Television Journalist, News Anchor, Producer, Emmy Award Winner, Member of National Association of Black Journalists and National Association of Hispanic Journalists, Board of Directors of The Harlem School for the Arts

Dr. Mae Jemison

Physician, Astronaut, Professor, Humanitarian

First African American woman in space

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MARY

 

Matthew 1:16 And Jacob begat Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.

 

Luke 1:26-38 And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth, 27 To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin's name was Mary. 28 And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women. 29 And when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and cast in her mind what manner of salutation this should be. 30 And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God. 31 And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS. 32 He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: 33 And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end. 34 Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? 35 And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God. 36 And, behold, thy cousin Elisabeth, she hath also conceived a son in her old age: and this is the sixth month with her, who was called barren. 37 For with God nothing shall be impossible. 38 And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word. And the angel departed from her.

 

Matthew 1:18-25 Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost. 19 Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a publick example, was minded to put her away privily. 20 But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. 21 And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins. 22 Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, 23 Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us. 24 Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife: 25 And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name JESUS.

Matthew 27:50-56 Jesus, when he had cried again with a loud voice, yielded up the ghost. 51 And, behold, the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom; and the earth did quake, and the rocks rent; 52 And the graves were opened; and many bodies of the saints which slept arose, 53 And came out of the graves after his resurrection, and went into the holy city, and appeared unto many. 54 Now when the centurion, and they that were with him, watching Jesus, saw the earthquake, and those things that were done, they feared greatly, saying, Truly this was the Son of God. 55 And many women were there beholding afar off, which followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering unto him: 56 Among which was Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James and Joses, and the mother of Zebedee's children.

John 19:25-27 Now there stood by the cross of Jesus his mother, and his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Cleophas, and Mary Magdalene. 26 When Jesus therefore saw his mother, and the disciple standing by, whom he loved, he saith unto his mother, Woman, behold thy son! 27 Then saith he to the disciple, Behold thy mother! And from that hour that disciple took her unto his own home.

 

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Sanaa Lathan

Broadway, Television  and Film Actor, Tony Award Nominee, NAACP Image Award Nominee, Independent Spirit Award Nominee, Essence Award Winner for Best Actress, Rising Star Award at Acapulco Black Film Festival, American Black Film Festival Best Performance by an Actress, BET Awards Best Actress, Black Reel Awards Best Actress

Jackie Joyner Kersee

World Class Athlete, Multiple Olympic Medal Winner,

Voted SI Athlete of the 20th Century, Voted ESPN Top 50 Athlete

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DORCAS

 

Acts 9:36-42 Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good works and almsdeeds which she did. 37 And it came to pass in those days, that she was sick, and died: whom when they had washed, they laid her in an upper chamber. 38 And forasmuch as Lydda was nigh to Joppa, and the disciples had heard that Peter was there, they sent unto him two men, desiring him that he would not delay to come to them. 39 Then Peter arose and went with them. When he was come, they brought him into the upper chamber: and all the widows stood by him weeping, and shewing the coats and garments which Dorcas made, while she was with them. 40 But Peter put them all forth, and kneeled down, and prayed; and turning him to the body said, Tabitha, arise. And she opened her eyes: and when she saw Peter, she sat up. 41 And he gave her his hand, and lifted her up, and when he had called the saints and widows, presented her alive. 42 And it was known throughout all Joppa; and many believed in the Lord.

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Lauren Vélez

Television and Film Actor, Professional Dancer

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Gina Ravera

Film, Stage and Television Actor

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Loraine Vélez

Broadway, Stage and Television Actor

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Sarah Stokes
R&B, Pop and Hip Hop Vocalist, Making the Band Finalist, Model, Film Actor

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Tionne Watkins

R&B Vocalist, Lead singer of successful R&B/Hip hop group TLC, Actor, Entrepreneur, Model, Humanitarian

Ciara Princess Harris

Grammy Award Winning Vocalist, Songwriter, Dancer, Record Producer, Actor

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Mrs. Coretta Scott King First Lady of the Civil Rights Movement

When I went to the movies with other black children, we had to sit in the balcony while the white kids got to sit in the better seats below. We had to walk to school while the white children rode in school buses paid for by our parents' taxes. Such messages, saying we were inferior, were a daily part of our lives."

Young Coretta Scott's gift for music and enthusiasm for education led her far beyond the segregated world of her childhood, but when she met the young Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., the two resolved to return to the Deep South together and pursue the cause of justice in her own home state of Alabama. The Montgomery bus boycott thrust the young couple to the forefront of a revitalized civil rights movement, even as it exposed their growing family to the retaliation of those who opposed any change in the old system.

Braving death threats and surviving the bombing of their home by white supremacists, Coretta Scott King stood by the cause and her husband, from the Birmingham jail to the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, from the March on Washington, to a stage in Oslo, Norway where he accepted the Nobel Prize for Peace. After his assassination, she inspired the world with her courage, dignity and tireless devotion to preserving Dr. King's legacy.

As founding President, Chair, and Chief Executive Officer of The Martin Luther King, Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change,  she saw that tens of thousands of activists from all over the world were trained in the philosophy and practice of nonviolence. She has served as an advisor to freedom and democracy movements all over the world, and as a consultant to world leaders including President Corazon Aquino of the Philippines, President Kenneth Kaunda of Zambia, and President Nelson Mandela of South Africa. One of the world's most admired women, she remained an outspoken champion of justice and human dignity to the end of her days.

The "first lady of the civil rights movement" died in her sleep during the night of January 31, 2006 at a hospital in Mexico, her family said.  She had been recovering from a serious stroke and heart attack suffered last August.  She made her last public appearance on the eve of her late husband's birthday.

News of her death led to tributes to King across Atlanta, including a moment of silence in the Georgia Capitol and piles of flowers placed at the tomb of her slain husband. Flags at the King Center - the institute devoted to the civil rights leader's legacy - were lowered to half-staff.

"She wore her grief with grace. She exerted her leadership with dignity," the Rev. Joseph Lowery, who helped found the Southern Christian Leadership Conference with King's husband in 1957.

Former Atlanta Mayor Andrew Young, one of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s top aides, said Coretta Scott King's fortitude rivaled that of her husband. "She was strong if not stronger than he was," Young said.

Coretta Scott King was a supportive lieutenant to her husband during the most dangerous and tumultuous days of the civil rights movement, and after his assassination in Memphis, Tenn., on April 4, 1968, she carried on his work while also raising their four children.

"I'm more determined than ever that my husband's dream will become a reality," the young widow said soon after his slaying.

She pushed and goaded politicians for more than a decade to have her husband's birthday observed as a national holiday, achieving success in 1986. In 1969 she founded the Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change in Atlanta and used it to confront hunger, unemployment, voting rights and racism.

"The center enables us to go out and struggle against the evils in our society," she often said.

King became a symbol in her own right of her husband's struggle for peace and brotherhood, presiding with an almost regal bearing over seminars and conferences.

The Rev. Jesse Jackson, who was with her husband when he was assassinated, said Tuesday that she understood that every time her husband left home, there was the chance he might not come back. Jackson pronounced her a "freedom fighter."

"Like all great champions she learned to function with pain and keep serving," he said, adding: "She kept marching. She did not flinch."

In Washington, President Bush hailed her as "a remarkable and courageous woman and a great civil rights leader."

Gov. Sonny Perdue ordered flags at all state buildings to be flown at half-staff and to have King's body to lie in repose at the Georgia Capitol, where decades earlier her husband’s body was denied that honor.

 

 

A virtuous woman is a crown to her husband:

but she that maketh ashamed is as rottenness in his bones.  

Proverbs 12:4

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Laura Creavelle

International Women’s Professional Bodybuilding champion, International Women’s Amateur Bodybuilding champion and Owner/Operator of Club Creavelle Fitness Camp.

And now, my daughter, fear not; I will do to thee all that thou requirest: for all the city of my people doth know that thou art a virtuous woman.

Ruth 3:11

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­Mrs. Myrlie Evers-Williams
Civil Rights Activist


Myrlie Evers-Williams is most famous for being the tireless wife of murdered civil rights leader Medgar Evers. But her tenacious search for her husband's killer and her own determination and leadership make her a civil rights powerhouse in her own right. In 1995, Evers-Williams became chairwoman of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, but her journey really began on June 12, 1963, when she opened her front door in Jackson, Mississippi, to find her husband fatally shot in the back. White supremacist Byron De La Beckwith was charged with the murder but was not convicted after two trials ended in hung juries. Despite this initial defeat, Evers-Williams continued searching for new evidence in the case. In 1994 De La Beckwith was finally convicted of Evers' murder and sentenced to life in prison. After the verdict was read, Evers-Williams "broke into a smile, shouted a cheer and raised a clenched fist to the sky in triumph," the New York Times reported.

BORN
March 17, 1933, Vicksburg, Mississippi

EDUCATION
Student at Alcorn A&M College, 1950; Bachelor's degree in sociology from Pomona College, 1968.

CAREER
In 1954 Evers-Williams worked as a secretary for her husband who was working as the Mississippi state field secretary for the NAACP. Together they rallied civil rights demonstrators and organized voter registration drives. Following her husband's murder, Evers-Williams moved her family to California and enrolled in Pomona College in Claremont. After graduating with a degree in sociology, she got a job as the assistant director of planning and development for the Claremont College system. In 1970 she ran for Congress and lost.

Later, Evers-Williams moved to Los Angeles to take a position as consumer affairs director for the Atlantic Richfield Company. In June 1988, Los Angeles Mayor Tom Bradley appointed her to the city's five-member Board of Public Works. She was the first African-American woman to be appointed to the position and she helped managed a budget of nearly $1 billion dollars. In 1995 she ascended to the chairmanship of the NAACP and served until 1998. She has written two books: "For Us, the Living," with William Peters, and an autobiography, "Watch Me Fly: What I Learned on the Way to Becoming the Woman I was Meant to Be."

AWARDS
For her fight for equality and civil rights, Evers-Williams has garnered numerous awards, including the U.S. Congressional Black Caucus Achievement Award and the League of Women Voters' Woman of Honor Award. The NAACP recognized her with an Image Award for Civil Rights and she received the state of California Woman of the Year Award.

She has received honorary doctorates from Pomona College, Medgar Evers College, Spelman College, Columbia College, Bennett College, Tougaloo College, and Willamette University.

PERSONAL
Married Medgar Evers in 1951. Married Walter Williams in 1975; he died from prostate cancer in 1995. She had three children with Medgar Evers.

 

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Hurlena "Lena" Hunter

Personal Presidential Aid, GSA Employee, Humanitarian

 

Hurlena Hunter, affectionately known as "Lena" was born on June 15, 1925 to Eugene and Leola Hunter of Balboa, Panama in Central America. The Hunter family migrated to the United States, where they settled in Bastrop, Texas

 

As a young woman, Ms. Hunter moved to Austin, Texas where she worked for the General Services Administration for more than twenty years.  Many of those years, she worked very closely with President Lyndon Baines Johnson as his personal aid.  Her duties required her to assist the President whenever he was in the Central Texas area and especially at the LBJ Library.

 

She was a long time member of the Greater Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Austin, and was very active with the Children's Auxiliary and other groups in her service to God.  It was Ms. Hunter’s hope and desire that no child go wanting or in need.  It was widely known in the East Austin area that a warm meal, clean clothes or just a hug were always available at “Miss Lena’s” door.  Ms. Hunter welcomed all children to her home and always kept an eye out for the child who looked unkempt or was barefoot.  The next time they visited, there would always be a new set of clothes or new sneakers.  She not only fed the children in her neighborhood, but regularly traveled back to her home in Panama to help the children and families in her native Balboa.  There, the poverty is sometimes overwhelming and the need is great. Ms. Hunter would use her own money to purchase food and clothes for the families in the small town in which she was born.

 

Ms. Hunter was also known for her outstanding abilities to cook all types of American, Southern and Latin cuisines. She spent much of her time baking pies and cakes to raise money to continue her humanitarian aid to poor children in this country and in Central America.

 

Ms. Hurlena “Lena” Hunter passed away on December 4, 1986 after a long bout with illness. The legacy of love and encouragement that Ms. Hunter left has been continued by some of the very children that she loved and helped.

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Iska Schlottbohm
Woman of Virtue

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Brandi Burton
Woman of Virtue

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Brittney Burton
Woman of Virtue

Breakthroughs for African American Women in Military Service

Written by: Judith Bellafaire, Ph.D., Curator
Women In Military Service For America Memorial Foundation, Inc.

1948
First Lieutenant Nancy C. Leftenant was the first black woman to become a member of the Regular Army Nurse Corps in March--she had joined the Reserve Corps in February 1945.
1951
The first three black women commissioned as officers (Second Lieutenants) in the Air Force were Edwina Martin of Danville, Virginia; Fannie Jean Cotton of Jackson, Michigan; and Evelyn M. Brown of Shreveport, Louisiana. All three graduated from the Air Force Officer Candidate School at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas.
1964
Margaret E. Bailey, Army Nurse Corps, was the first nurse to be promoted to Lieutenant Colonel.
1967
Captain Clara Adams-Ender became the first female in the US Army to qualify for and be awarded the Expert Field Medical Badge.
1969
Captain Diane Lindsay, Army Nurse Corps, was the first black nurse to receive the Soldier's Medal for Heroism.
1970
Lieutenant Colonel Margaret E. Bailey, Army Nurse Corps, became the first black nurse to hold the rank of Colonel.
1972
Mildred C. Kelly became the first black female E9 (Sergeant Major) in the US Army.
1974
Staff Sergeant Joyce B. Malone became the first black woman to earn Airborne Wings in the US Army Reserves.
1976
Lieutenant Colonel Clara Adams-Ender became the first woman in the US Army to earn the Master of Military Art and Science degree from the Army Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas.
1979
Brigadier General Hazel W. Johnson-Brown became the first black woman general officer and the first black Chief of the Army Nurse Corps.
1987
Irene Trowell-Harris became the first black female general officer in the National Guard.
1995
Brigadier General Marcelite Harris, USAF, was promoted to major general, the first black woman to attain this rank.
1997
US Army Sergeant Danyell Wilson became the first black woman to earn the prestigious job of guarding the Tomb of the Unknowns at Arlington National Cemetery.

Copyright © 2005-2009 by Rev. Dr. Ricardo E. Nuñez.  All Rights Reserved.

 

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