(Akiit.com) Los Angeles, CA – Dr. Geraldine Washington’s service has been longstanding, substantial and consistent in striving to make a difference in the fight for social, community and civil empowerment in Los Angeles.Â
    As the nation recognizes the significant contributions of women during the month of March, Washington, President of the Los Angeles-NAACP, carries a torch of leadership that has existed for more than three decades.
    Washington has also served as Los Angeles NAACP Vice President, President and Vice President for Women In NAACP (WIN) and WIN Coordinator for Region I, which consists of nine western states, Japan, Germany and Korea.
    This year’s Women’s History Month theme, Generations of Women Moving History Forward, seems appropriate for Washington, a devout activist who remains committed to overseeing civil rights programs and activities.Â
    “I relocated to Los Angeles the summer before Central High School’s integration took place in my home town of Little Rock, Arkansas, and sorrowfully watched the violent aftermath by television,” says Washington.  “As a teacher, I had the opportunity to take part in the school board meetings that prepared for this historical milestone. Sitting in those meetings, I knew then that what we were working on would have a memorable impact on me as well as the civil rights movement.”
     According to the National Women’s History Project, the year 2007 presents special opportunities to highlight some critically important events in women’s history, including the 50th anniversary of the integration of Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas. As a child, Washington, attended Little Rock Public Schools and poignantly recalls that historical year that began to challenge the laws of segregation.
    “Fifty years later, there is still work that needs to be done,” says Washington who is preparing for The Los Angeles NAACP’s 2007 “Roy Wilkins Freedom Fund Awards Gala,” on May 17. She points out that this year’s theme, “Protecting Our Civil Rights,” will bring together leaders from the education, social, economic, legal and political sectors who will be acknowledged for their talents, time and energy to making a difference in empowering the African American community.
   In her enduring quest for civil rights, Washington shares that her fight for equality has always included a heart for women’s advocacy. The former WIN President has committed to staying true to its theme “Outstretched Hands and Open Hearts to Women and Children.”  Â
    For questions about the Roy Wilkins Freedom Fund Awards Gala call (323) 857-0869 or for questions regarding the Los Angeles NAACP call (323) 296-2630.
    U.S. Congress passed a resolution in 1981 to establish National Women’s History Week. Six years later, the week was expanded to a month and supported by an annual resolution from Congress as well as a U.S. presidential proclamation declaring March as Women’s History Month.