of their
responsibility, both in molding the life of the home and in shaping
the principles of the nation; to secure the co-operation of all women
in whatever is undertaken in the interest of justice, purity and
liberty; to inspire in all women, but especially in colored women, a
desire to be useful in whatever field of labor they can work to the
best advantage.

Kindergartens and day nurseries for the infants of working women have
been established; mothers' meetings have been generally held and
sewing classes formed; a sanitarium with a training school for nurses
has been founded in New Orleans; ground purchased on which an Old
Folks' Home is to be built in Memphis, and charity dispensed in
various ways. Women on plantations in the "black belt" of Alabama have
been taught how to make their huts decent and habitable with the small
means at their command, and how to care for themselves and their
families in accordance with the rules of health. Schools of Domestic
Science are conducted, and a large branch is that of Business Women's
Clubs. The Convict Lease System, "Jim Crow" Car Laws, Lynching and
other barbarities are thoroughly discussed, in the hope that some
remedy for these evils may be discovered. Statistics concerning the
progress and achievements of colored people are being gathered.
Musical clubs are formed to develop this inherent gift. An organ is
published called _Notes_, edited by Mrs. Booker T. Washington and an
assistant in each State.

The association has 125 branches in twenty-six States and over 8,000
members.

THE NATIONAL CONGRESS OF MOTHERS held its first public convention at
Washington in February, 1897, and permanent organization was effected
there in 1898. Its objects are to raise the standards of home life; to
give young women opportunities to learn how to care for children; to
bring into closer relations the home and the school; to surround the
childhood of the whole world with that wise, loving care in the
impressionable years of life which will develop good citizens.

Practical efforts have been made to accomplish all of these objects.
Mothers have used their influence in behalf of free kindergartens in
the public schools; in having school buildings properly constructed,
lighted, heated and ventilated, and for shorter hours in school and
less study outside. They have lent their efforts to the uplifting of
the drama, since, rightfully used, it can be made a powerful
educational factor,