In New York City, on a warm spring day, a diverse group of African American leaders convened at the Henry Street Settlement to discuss the ongoing racial injustices that plagued the nation. Among them were prominent figures such as W.E.B. Du Bois, Ida B. Wells, and other activists who recognized the urgent need to unite in opposition to the rising tide of racism and violence. The National Negro Committee was formed during this historic gathering, setting the stage for what would later become the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). The attendees deliberated on the best strategies to combat racial discrimination, advocating for civil rights and the social and economic advancement of African Americans. Their discussions culminated in the drafting of a declaration that called for action against lynching and the promotion of equal rights in the United States.

The conference was sparked by incidents of racial violence, most notably the lynching of an African American man in Springfield, Illinois, which had awakened national outrage. Activists recognized that unchecked violence against African Americans was a persistent threat that required organized resistance. Their goal was not only to address immediate concerns but also to foster a broader movement for equality that included legal challenges, lobbying, and grassroots activism. The event underscored the necessity of a unified front among African American leaders to confront systemic injustices more effectively.

Following this meeting, the National Negro Committee continued to advocate for civil rights, eventually leading to the establishment of the NAACP in 1910. This organization became pivotal in the civil rights movement, influencing legislation and public perception over the subsequent decades. The formation of the committee marked a significant turning point in African American advocacy, as it laid the groundwork for future civil rights initiatives and organizations that sought to dismantle institutional racism and promote social justice.