February 2, 2021

Remembering a champion for civil rights

0.7 min read| Published On: February 2nd, 2021|

By James Combs

Remembering a champion for civil rights

0.7 min read| Published On: February 2nd, 2021|

Mary McLeod Bethune was dubbed as “The First Lady of Struggle.”

Lake Countians can relive the spirit of a pioneering African American woman.

On Feb. 3, Ersual Knox Odom will portray Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune inside the Leesburg Public Library amphitheater. She’ll share impactful moments of Dr. Bethune’s extraordinary life.

Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune(1875-1955) was the founder of Bethune-Cookman University in Daytona Beach. She served as a New Deal government official, holding one of the 20 highest-level offices held by women in the administration, and the highest held by an African American woman.

She was also the founder of FDR’s Federal Council of Negro Affairs and she served as president of the National Association of Colored Women. In addition, she founded and served as president of the National Council of Negro Women.

The presentation, “Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune Comes to Life,” will be held at 1 p.m.

For more information, call 352.728.9790.

 

 

 

 

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About the Author: James Combs

Akers Media Group's James Combs has been a staff writer for several local publications since August 2000. He has had the privilege of interviewing some of Lake County's many fascinating residents—from innovative business owners to heroic war veterans—and bringing their stories to life. A resident of Lake County since 1986, James recently embarked on a journey to lead a healthier lifestyle. He has lost 60 pounds and walks nearly five miles a day. In his spare time, he enjoys target shooting, skeet shooting and watching his beloved Kentucky Wildcats!

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