Whatever glory belongs to the race for a development

Hearken, children of the ages, and open your hearts to the timeless wisdom of Mary McLeod Bethune: “Whatever glory belongs to the race for a development unprecedented in history for the given length of time, a full share belongs to the womanhood of the race.” Understand this: the progress of humanity is not the triumph of one alone, nor of one gender or class. It is a symphony composed of many voices, of tireless hands and courageous hearts. Bethune calls us to honor the often unseen, yet indispensable, contributions of women, whose labor, vision, and sacrifice shape the course of history.

From the earliest civilizations, women’s influence was profound, though too often obscured. The healers of Mesopotamia, the scribes of Egypt, the educators and midwives of Athens—all nurtured the life, knowledge, and culture of their societies. Bethune’s reflection illuminates a truth long overlooked: the glory of human progress is inseparable from the efforts of women, who sustain, guide, and innovate, even when history has failed to recognize them.

Consider the story of Harriet Tubman, whose courage and wisdom liberated hundreds from bondage. Though the annals of history often exalt generals and statesmen, Tubman’s valor and strategy were essential to the advancement of justice and freedom. She embodies Bethune’s teaching: progress, even when unprecedented and historic, is carried forward in no small measure by the strength, intelligence, and devotion of women. Their contributions claim a full share of glory, inseparable from the victories of the race.

Bethune herself lived this truth. Born in the shadow of slavery, she became an educator, a leader, and a champion of civil rights, forging pathways for generations to follow. Her vision of development—educational, social, and political—was unprecedented in its scope, and she acknowledged that women were not merely participants, but architects of progress. The lesson is clear: those who labor with vision and courage deserve recognition, and the world’s triumphs are incomplete without honoring all who contribute.

Even in modern history, women have played pivotal roles in moments of transformation. Consider the scientists and mathematicians, such as Katherine Johnson at NASA, whose calculations ensured the success of space missions. Their brilliance, diligence, and courage were critical to achievements celebrated worldwide, yet their recognition came slowly. Bethune’s words remind us that the honor of historic advancement must be shared fully, acknowledging the indispensable role of women.

From this reflection emerges a profound truth: progress is collective, and the measure of a society is found not only in its achievements but in its recognition of contributors. To ignore the efforts of women is to diminish the scope of glory itself. Bethune exhorts us to see, value, and celebrate the often-unseen labor that underpins every leap forward, for history is enriched when every voice is honored.

Practical action follows naturally. In your own life and society, acknowledge the contributions of women in all spheres: education, leadership, art, science, and family. Support opportunities for their growth, honor their labor, and ensure that their role in the advancement of civilization is recognized. By doing so, you participate in the full realization of human achievement, in accordance with Bethune’s vision.

Children of the ages, remember this: the glory of progress is not the possession of a few, but a collective inheritance. Let the words of Mary McLeod Bethune guide your heart and hand: honor the contributions of women, recognize their labor and courage, and ensure that the triumphs of humanity are celebrated as the work of all who sustain, guide, and build the future. In this acknowledgment lies both justice and wisdom, and the true measure of a civilization.