Careers of Women Civil Rights Activists

Authors

Rhoda Lois Blumberg, Rutgers University

Abstract

Stages in the civil rights careers of a sample of women active in northern communities were studied. Committed to racial justice, most intensified their participation in the early 1960's. In the second half of the decade, the "Black Power" phase, roles for whites became fewer. Organizations experienced changes in membership and direction; factionalism ensued. Many, women welcomed black leadership and played roles in new black-lead community agencies. Arrests of blacks allegedly involved in riots elicited support in the formation of defense committees and prison reform organizations. Later, many women entered human service professions; they chose jobs with poor, minority or disadvantaged clienteles. . Half are still volunteers. Continuity is sought between paid or volunteer work and social concerns. In its absence, a sense of loss or guilt is experienced. Movement commitment tends to be translated into institutional roles, most especially paid careers in the human services.

Recommended Citation

Blumberg, Rhoda Lois (1980) "Careers of Women Civil Rights Activists," The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare: Vol. 7: Iss. 5, Article 6.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.15453/0191-5096.1474
Available at: https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/jssw/vol7/iss5/6