organizes an annual visit to the State Legislature which includes a luncheon with elected
officials and other concerned citizen groups.
Noteworthy Results
Because of their vast reach, it is impossible to give attention to each WBL
accomplishment, on-going project, or member. From the process of sorting through their
documents, a few projects and women emerged as forces of change.
16
Regardless of barriers
erected by other organizations, the culture, and the difficult political climate, these women’s
efforts have altered the Louisiana landscape in both the literal and figurative sense. Some of the
most substantial results have occurred in the areas of education, child advocacy, and
environmental concerns.
Betty Van Norman has emerged as one of the leaders of the quality education initiative.
Recognizing that Louisiana consistently ranks at the bottom of public education quality, the
WBL is always seeking opportunities to provide direct support to schools and student projects. In
2003 and 2004, donations were made to:
•
Bishop Perry Middle School, a private institution for minority boys. The school’s mission
is “preparing young African-American men for success in high school and life.” The
school provides a highly structured environment and the students acknowledge that it is a
positive place to learn because there is no fighting.
17
•
Girls First, an organization created by concerned female citizens to intervene with at-risk,
inner-city girls through sports and positive female mentoring. The organization provides
regular cultural outings, a camp, and lessons to help these girls better understand
16
These documents were a massive collection of notes, copies of newspapers articles, and miscellaneous letters.
17
Fighting is a common problem in New Orleans public schools.
Convention