By Mayor Donna Deegan | As the first woman Mayor of Jacksonville, it is my distinct honor to represent you as we mark Women’s History Month. This month is a time for us to reflect on the invaluable contributions of women throughout history, celebrating their triumphs, acknowledging their struggles, and recognizing the indelible mark they have left on our society. In Jacksonville, we have a particularly rich legacy of African-American women who have shaped our city, state, and nation.
From the pioneering educators who established schools in the post-Reconstruction era to the civil rights activists who marched for equality in our streets, African- American women have consistently been at the forefront of progress in Jacksonville. Consider the indomitable Eartha M. White, a philanthropist and humanitarian who dedicated her life to serving the less fortunate, establishing numerous institutions including a hospital, an orphanage, and a home for the aged. Her tireless efforts transformed countless lives and laid much of the groundwork for social welfare in our city.
Think of Augusta Fells Savage, a world-renowned sculptor and an integral figure of the Harlem Renaissance, who honed her craft right here in Jacksonville. Her artistic vision and determination to overcome racial and gender barriers continue to inspire us. Her legacy lives on not only in her powerful sculptures but also in the countless young artists she mentored.
And we cannot forget the educators who, often against incredible odds, instilled knowledge and hope in generations of students. Women like Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, who, though she went on to found Bethune-Cookman University, began her journey as a teacher in Florida, understanding the transformative power of education for African-American youth.
In more recent years, we celebrate Dr. Johnetta B. Cole, the renowned anthropologist and educator and the first African-American woman to become president of Spelman College; Mary Littlejohn Singleton and Sallye Bell Mathis, some of our first local office holders; and Brenda Jackson, renowned romance novelist and the first African-American author to be named to the new York Times and USA Today bestseller lists!
And I’d be remiss if I didn’t include the significant contributions of current Jacksonville City Councilwomen Ju’Coby Pittman and Tyrona Clark Murray to this list.
This Women’s History Month, I encourage every one of us to delve deeper into the stories of these extraordinary women and countless others whose names may not be as widely known but whose impact was just as profound. They were mothers, sisters, daughters, leaders, innovators, and caregivers. They built communities, fought for justice, and championed equality.
Let us not only celebrate their past achievements but also draw inspiration from their unwavering spirit to tackle the challenges of today. As we look to the future, let us commit to creating a Jacksonville where every woman, regardless of her background, has the opportunity to reach her full potential. Let us uplift and empower the next generation of African-American women leaders, entrepreneurs, artists, and changemakers.
As mayor, I am committed to supporting families across our city by focusing on making housing more affordable, increasing access to health care, and sending more resources to communities that for too long have been left behind.
Together, we can ensure that the legacy of these remarkable women continues to thrive, shaping a brighter, more equitable future for all of Jacksonville.
Happy Women’s History Month!