The Girl Friends®, Incorporated, one of the oldest and most esteemed African American women’s social organizations in the United States, is celebrating a monumental milestone—its 90th Conclave. Founded in 1927 during the vibrant Harlem Renaissance, the organization has grown into a powerful network of professional and civic-minded women who contribute meaningfully to society as authors, doctors, lawyers, professors, business leaders, and public servants.
This year’s Conclave takes place in Boston, Massachusetts, where the fourth chapter of the organization was founded in January 1931. It marks the first time since 1976 that the city has hosted the national gathering. Themed “The Boston Tea Party,” the event coincides with the city’s Boston250 celebration, recognizing Boston’s key role in the American Revolution.
“Our Girl Friends are looking forward to convening in Boston to conduct our national business, celebrate our civic engagement and renew our bonds of friendship,” said Beth Espy, the 39th National President of The Girl Friends®, Incorporated.
Corporate and Civic Support
This year’s Conclave at the Hilton Boston Park Plaza has attracted notable corporate and civic support.
Sponsors include:
-
Signature Partner: Meet Boston (Greater Boston Convention & Visitors Bureau)
-
Lead Partners: Morgan Stanley, AARP, Encore Boston Harbor (a Wynn Resort)
-
Supporting Partners: The City of Boston, Eastern Bank, Hearst Television, The Partnership, Inc.
Karen Holmes Ward, National Vice President and Boston Chapter President, expressed local pride:
“We are proud to be the destination for this annual gathering once again. The Boston Tea Party theme aligns perfectly with our city’s celebration of liberty and legacy.”
Cultural and Economic Impact
With more than 1,000 attendees expected, the Conclave promises to inject energy into Boston’s cultural and economic scene. Activities include:
-
Visiting the African Meeting House on Beacon Hill
-
Exploring The Embrace memorial on Boston Common
-
Touring the Museum of Fine Arts Boston
-
Strolling through the Boston Public Garden
-
Cruising Boston Harbor
-
Attending live theater and dining at diverse restaurants, including several Black-owned establishments
Philanthropic Legacy
While rooted in social connectivity, The Girl Friends®, Inc. has evolved into a force for charitable and cultural good. Since inception, the organization has contributed nearly $250,000 nationally to causes including:
-
NAACP
-
United Negro College Fund
-
Children’s Defense Fund
-
Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture
-
Flint Water Crisis relief
-
The Girl Friends Fund Scholarship Program
In 1989, the Girl Friends Fund was founded as a separate 501(c)(3) nonprofit to further expand its educational mission.
About The Girl Friends®, Incorporated
Officially incorporated in 1938 with legal support from Thurgood Marshall, The Girl Friends®, Inc. today includes over 2,000 members across 49 chapters in 26 states and Washington, D.C. Members uphold a legacy of excellence, civic responsibility, and friendship.
To learn more, visit TheGirlfriendsInc.org.
Report by Goddess Couture News Staff
