Josephine Holloway, a champion of diversity, was one of the first Black Girl Scout troop leaders.
Josephine dreamed of bringing the Girl Scout programming to girls at a local women’s shelter in Nashville, Tennessee, and in 1924, she fought for the opportunity to do just that. By the end of the year, more than 300 girls there were engaged in Girl Scout-inspired activities.
Nearly 10 years later in 1933 when Blacks and other minorities in our country still faced staunch racism, Josephine made her first attempt to form an official troop for Black girls, but her request was initially denied. The local council declined, citing the high cost of maintaining separate facilities for Blacks. Nevertheless, Josephine pressed on, and in 1942, after much perseverance, the region’s first Black Girl Scout troop was established. At this time, segregation and oppression was commonplace.
Learn more about Josephine Holloway and her vision, courage, and passion for bringing Girl Scouting to all girls here.
You and your girls can also complete the following activity to honor Josephine’s legacy and celebrate Black History Month.
We want to hear how your girl is using her Girl Scout skills by taking initiative, caring for the community, and Girl Scouting at home. She can send in her story here.