Fannie Barrier Williams (1855-1944) was an activist and reformer. Concerned that African American women’s voices were not being heard, Williams helped found the National League for Colored Women and later, she co-founded the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People.

Her passion for women’s rights led her to the women’s suffrage movement where she formed a friendship with Susan B. Anthony. After Anthony died, Williams was the only African American chosen to eulogize her at the 1907 National American Woman Suffrage Convention.

About the Narrator:
KRYSTA JONES 
Founder of Virginia Leadership Institute

Krysta Jones has committed her life to public service, developing leaders and changing lives. She is active in the League of Women Voters and the National Coalition of 100 Black Women. Jones is the founder of Virginia Leadership Institute (VLI), which aims to increase the number of Black elected officials in Virginia. She is also the host of “A Seat at the Table” which empowers women and minorities to change the world through politics.

About Fannie B. Williams, Krysta said, “Her being a trailblazer - a black woman fighting for women’s rights at that time, really laid the groundwork for me - not only to have the right to vote, but for me to… continue that struggle she had, as well. “

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