Celebrating the Stories and Accomplishments of Black Leaders Within the Y Movement
The history of the YMCA – like the history of the United States – is a story of incremental progress toward welcoming all. As we celebrate Black History Month, we are honoring the stories of Black leaders who helped move the Y – and America – forward, as well as recognizing that history continues to be created each and every day.
Visit the YMCA Archives to learn more about the history of Black leadership in the YMCA.
Anthony Bowen
A former enslaved man and the first Black American to become a clerk in the U.S. Patent Office, Anthony Bowen founded the first YMCA for the Black community in Washington, D.C., in 1853, eight years before the Civil War.
William Hunton
The son of a freed enslaved person from Canada, William Hunton began his YMCA work in 1888 as the first employed secretary at a “Colored YMCA” in Norfolk, VA.
Carter G. Woodson
In 1915, at the Wabash Avenue YMCA in Chicago, Carter G. Woodson organized the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History, which led to Negro History Week and later Black History Month.
Madam C.J. Walker
A trailblazing entrepreneur and philanthropist, Madam C.J. Walker built a successful hair-care company and was a strong supporter of the YMCA and the NAACP’s anti-lynching work.
Jackie Robinson
In 1947, Jackie Robinson broke Major League Baseball’s color barrier and also served as a volunteer boys coach at the Harlem YMCA.
Leo B. Marsh
Dr. Leo B. Marsh became the first Black president of the Association of YMCA Secretaries and later brought the Black Achievers program to Harlem.
Jesse Alexander
Jesse Alexander helped organize the National Conference of Black and Non-White Laymen and Staff, ensuring YMCA services expanded in communities of color.
Violet P. Henry
In 1976, Violet P. Henry became the first woman to hold a top national management role at the YMCA.
Kevin Washington
Kevin Washington became the first person of color to serve as CEO of YMCA of the USA, leading national nonprofit relief efforts.
