The National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) was established in New York City to consolidate the efforts of various women's organizations into a powerful collective dedicated to addressing the needs and rights of African American women. Mary McLeod Bethune, a prominent educator and civil rights leader, played a crucial role in forming this organization. The NCNW brought together over 40 different women's groups, representing diverse interests and backgrounds, to work collaboratively on social justice issues. Bethune understood that unifying voices could bring attention to the unique challenges faced by African American women, who were often marginalized in both the broader civil rights movement and society at large.

At its founding, the NCNW aimed to focus on various pressing issues such as voter registration, education, and employment opportunities for African American women. Bethune envisioned the organization as a means to empower women to advocate for themselves and their communities. The NCNW created programs that addressed education and employment through legislation, promoted civil rights, and helped in community development. Bethune's charisma and organizational skills were pivotal in promoting the NCNW’s objectives and expanding its reach throughout the nation.

The establishment of the NCNW marked a significant milestone in the history of women's activism and civil rights. It represented a shift towards organized collective action among African American women, who sought to address their specific grievances while also contributing to the broader struggle for racial equality. The NCNW has since played an essential role in advocating for social justice, empowering future generations of women leaders, and influencing national policies. By uniting the voices of women at various social and political levels, the NCNW became a crucial player in the civil rights movement and continues to impact society today.