Written by Walena Logan

Photo by Walena Logan

The Southern California Coalition of the National Council of Negro Women, Inc. (SCC-NCNW) recently held the annual Black Family Reunion at the historic SoCal Council House, located at 3720 West 54th Street, in Los Angeles. Since its inception in 1986, the Black Family Reunion has served as a powerful celebration of culture, family, and unity within the African American community.

The SCC-NCNW operates as a regional arm of the National Council of Negro Women, Inc. (NCNW), within a facility owned by the organization. NCNW was founded by renowned educator, philanthropist, humanitarian, womanist, and civil rights leader Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune. NCNW is a legacy organization dedicated to uplifting and empowering women of African descent.

NCNW’s mission is to lead, advocate for, and empower women of African descent, their families, and communities through initiatives centered on financial literacy, STEAM education, health and wellness, and social justice.

SCC-NCNW is comprised of several active sections across Southern California, including: Athens Westmont, Compton, High Desert, Inland Empire, Long Beach, Los Angeles, Los Angeles Life Member Guild, Mary McLeod Bethune, Moreno Valley Life Guild, Orange County, Pomona Valley, Riverside, San Diego, San Gabriel Valley, and View Park.

The free community event focused on NCNW’s Core 4: Economic Empowerment, Education, Health Equity and Social Justice

Under the leadership of SCC-NCNW President Dr. Helena Johnson, the Black Family Reunion was brought to life through the collaboration of all SoCal sections and generous support from sponsors, including affiliate Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.—Beta Psi Lambda Chapter of Los Angeles.  Special guests included a visit from NCNW’s National Chair Dr. A. Lois Keith, and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass.

The event offered attendees access to vital resources, community-building activities, and a variety of organizations with shared values and missions.