Podcast Summary: "Mary McLeod Bethune"
Stuff You Missed in History Class
Release Date: January 8, 2025
Hosts: Holly Fry and Tracy V. Wilson
Production: iHeartRadio

Introduction

In the episode titled "Mary McLeod Bethune," hosts Holly Fry and Tracy V. Wilson delve into the life and legacy of one of America's most influential African American educators and civil rights leaders. Inspired by the trailer of a forthcoming movie featuring Oprah Winfrey as Bethune, Tracy shares a personal anecdote that underscores the significance of Bethune's contributions and the community's anticipation for her story to be brought to the screen.

Tracy V. Wilson [00:52]: "We have gotten tons of listener requests for an episode about her, so this is not a sponsored episode for this movie. I just decided that this whole trailer experience was a sign that I needed to move Mary McLeod Bethune up to the top of the list."

Early Life and Family Background

Mary Jane McLeod Bethune was born on July 10, 1875, near Maysville, South Carolina, into a large family of 17 children. Her parents, Samuel and Patsy McLeod, were former slaves who had gained their freedom following the Civil War. Unlike many biographies that mistakenly portray her as the first freeborn child, historical records indicate that Mary had at least two older siblings, Kissy and William, who were born after the abolition of slavery.

Peter Tilden [03:09]: "Mary Jane McLeod was born on July 10, 1875 near Maysville, South Carolina... some of her oldest siblings had also been sold away from the rest of the family."

Education and Formative Experiences

Education played a pivotal role in Bethune's life. At the age of 17, she attended the newly established Trinity Chapel Presbyterian Mission School in Maysville, where her passion for learning blossomed.

Holly Fry [06:43]: "Learning itself was also just a joy. In Bethune's words, the whole world opened to me when I learned to read."

Bethune's dedication to education led her to Scotia Seminary (now Barber-Scotia College) in North Carolina, where she excelled in the chorus and debate team, graduating in 1884. Her journey continued at Moody's Bible Institute in Chicago, where despite being the only black student, she sought to become a missionary. However, facing racial barriers, she redirected her efforts towards education within the United States.

Teaching Career and Establishment of Her School

Bethune's teaching career began in Augusta, Georgia, and later in Sumter, South Carolina, where she met her husband, Albertus Bethune. In 1904, she founded the Daytona Beach Literary and Industrial School for Negro girls with minimal resources:

Holly Fry [11:18]: "The school started out, in her words, with 'five little girls, a dollar and a half and faith in God.'"

The institution quickly expanded, acquiring land previously used as a dump site and constructing facilities like Faith Hall and an administration building. By 1920, it had grown to become the second-largest school for black girls in the United States.

Marriage, Family, and Personal Challenges

Bethune married Albertus Bethune on May 6, 1898, and they had a son, Albertus Macleod Bethune, born on February 3, 1889. While her marriage eventually dissolved around 1907, largely due to Albertus's declining health, Bethune remained dedicated to her mission, balancing family responsibilities with her educational endeavors.

Peter Tilden [09:43]: "She was intensely private about her personal life... she described their marriage and the birth of their child as not intended to impede the things that she aspired to do."

Advocacy and Leadership Roles

Mary McLeod Bethune's influence extended beyond education. She held several leadership positions, including:

• 1920: Elected to the National Urban League's executive board.
• 1923: Became the first female president of the National Association of Teachers of Colored Schools.
• 1924: Elected president of the National Association of Colored Women's Clubs, the largest political organization for black women at the time.

Her commitment to civil rights and education positioned her as a prominent advocate for African American communities nationwide.

Collaboration with Eleanor Roosevelt and the Black Cabinet

In 1927, Bethune formed a significant alliance with First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt, leading to a lifelong friendship and professional collaboration. This partnership was instrumental in establishing the Black Cabinet, an informal group of African American advisors to President Franklin D. Roosevelt, focusing on issues such as education, housing, and voting rights.

Peter Tilden [18:34]: "Bethune was a huge source of insight and knowledge for Roosevelt as she approached her own work on social and political issues, including women's rights."

World War II Efforts and Government Advocacy

During World War II, Bethune played a crucial role in advocating for the inclusion of African Americans in defense industries and the military. As Director of Negro Affairs at the National Youth Administration, she ensured that New Deal programs were accessible to black youth.

Holly Fry [22:35]: "Bethune recognized that black people would be left out of New Deal programs unless black communities advocated for their inclusion."

Her efforts contributed to the issuance of Executive Order 8802 in 1941, which prohibited race-based discrimination in the defense industry and federal employment.

Legacy and Honors

Mary McLeod Bethune's legacy is commemorated through numerous honors and memorials:

• 1953: Established the Mary MacLeod Bethune Foundation.
• 1973: Inducted into the National Women's Hall of Fame.
• 1985: Featured on a U.S. postage stamp, becoming the second black woman to receive this honor.
• 2022: A statue of her was placed in the National Statuary Hall in Washington, D.C., replacing that of Confederate General Edmund Kirby Smith.

Her contributions to education and civil rights have left an indelible mark, inspiring future generations to pursue equality and justice.

Holly Fry [34:12]: "She's really, truly amazing."

Conclusion

Mary McLeod Bethune's life exemplifies unwavering dedication to education, empowerment, and civil rights. Through her leadership, she not only transformed educational opportunities for African American girls but also played a pivotal role in shaping national policies that promoted racial equality. Her enduring legacy continues to inspire and educate, ensuring that her vision of full equality for all remains a guiding light in American history.

Notable Quotes

• Bethune on Education:

  "The whole world opened to me when I learned to read."
  [06:43] Holly Fry

• Bethune on Her Legacy:

  "I leave you love. I leave you hope. I leave you a thirst for education."
  [36:14] Peter Tilden

• Eleanor Roosevelt on Bethune:

  "She helped herself and the Lord helped her."
  [32:39] Holly Fry

Final Thoughts

Mary McLeod Bethune's story is a testament to the impact one individual's determination can have on society. Holly Fry and Tracy V. Wilson effectively highlight her multifaceted contributions, painting a comprehensive picture of her life's work and enduring influence.