Nannie Helen Burroughs Project

The Nannie Helen Burroughs Project is a U.S. nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the legacy and contributions of Nannie Helen Burroughs, a pioneering educator, civil rights activist, and feminist. As a recognized figure in African-American history, Burroughs founded the National Training School for Women and Girls in Washington, D.C., which became a landmark institution for empowering African-American women.

Background and Purpose

The project aims to highlight Burroughs' significant impact on education, civil rights, and women's empowerment. It emphasizes her efforts in establishing educational opportunities that helped uplift the race through the promotion of racial pride, respectability, and a strong work ethic. Her legacy includes fostering positive character traits, preparing students for competitive professions, and promoting environmental responsibility.

Activities and Impact

By focusing on Nannie Helen Burroughs' achievements, the project serves as a platform for educational and historical awareness. It provides resources and information about Burroughs' life, her school, and her advocacy for equal rights and opportunities beyond domestic roles. The project contributes to preserving her historical significance and encourages ongoing community engagement in civil rights and education.

Nannie Helen Burroughs Legacy

Nannie Helen Burroughs herself was born on May 2, 1879, and passed away on May 20, 1961. She was a powerful orator and activist who fought tirelessly for women's rights and racial uplift. Her National Training School, established in 1909, was known for its emphasis on the "three B's": Bible, Bath, and Broom, symbolizing clean lives, bodies, and homes. The school's curriculum included standard academic courses along with vocational training, aiming to prepare students to succeed in various professions and contribute positively to their communities.

Recognition

In recognition of Burroughs' contributions, the city of Washington, D.C., declared May 10 as "Nannie Helen Burroughs Day" in 1975. Her legacy continues to inspire educational initiatives and community development projects, with her name being used in various community planning efforts, such as the Nannie Helen Burroughs Corridor Small Area Plan in Washington, D.C.