1. Education for African Americans:
- Bethune was passionate about providing educational opportunities for African Americans. She founded the Daytona Educational and Industrial Training School for Negro Girls (later known as Bethune-Cookman University) in 1904.
- She believed education was the key to empowering African Americans and improving their lives. Her school offered vocational training and academic courses to help students gain practical skills and knowledge.
2. Civil Rights Advocacy:
- Bethune was a vocal advocate for civil rights. She played a significant role in the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and served as the organization's president from 1940 to 1942.
- She advocated for equal rights, access to voting, and an end to segregation. Bethune used her platform to speak out against discrimination and injustice.
3. Women's Rights:
- Bethune was also an advocate for women's rights. She established the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) in 1935, an organization dedicated to improving the lives of African American women.
- She worked to address issues such as poverty, education, employment discrimination, and suffrage. Bethune believed that women's empowerment was essential for the advancement of the African American community.
4. Federal Government Service:
- In 1936, Bethune was appointed by President Franklin D. Roosevelt as the director of the Division of Negro Affairs of the National Youth Administration (NYA). She played a crucial role in creating job opportunities for African American youth during the Great Depression.
- She later served as an advisor to President Roosevelt and was influential in shaping policies related to African American communities.
5. International Diplomacy:
- Bethune was also involved in international diplomacy. She traveled to Africa, Europe, and Asia as a representative of the U.S. government.
- She advocated for the rights of colonized peoples and promoted understanding and cooperation between different nations.
Overall, Mary McLeod Bethune's goals were centered around improving the lives of African Americans through education, civil rights activism, women's empowerment, and government service. Her dedication and leadership made a significant impact on American society and left a lasting legacy.