When the UNIA was founded in 1914, its first member was a young woman called Amy Ashwood. She was only 17, but already she spoke in public debates, and did social work. She became Garvey’s first wife, and went with him to the USA. She continued to speak in public, and she became the editor of the "Negro World." Amy Ashwood Garvey was an officer of the Black Star Line, and the Negro Factories Corporation.

Later, she and Garvey were divorced, but Amy Ashwood continued to be an important member of the Pan-African movement. Garvey’s second wife was Amy Jacques. She was also an important activist – active in the movement – and organizer in the UNIA.

Like Garvey’s first wife, Amy Jacques Garvey also became the editor of the "Negro World." She, too, was a strong public speaker. She published Garvey’s books, and she wrote and published a book of her own, called "Garvey and Garveyism." After Garvey’s death, Amy Jacques Garvey continued to work for the UNIA. She made sure that Garvey’s name and work were not forgotten. She was awarded the Gold Musgrave Medal for this, and for her contributions to the history of people of African descent.

Women In Leadership

In the early days in Kingston, about half the members of UNIA were women. When the headquarters moved to New York, women held some of the highest positions in the movement. An African-American actress, Henrietta Vinton Davis, became an international organizer. The head of UNIA’s printing press was a woman, Lillian Galloway. The UNIA always kept a place for a Lady President and a Lady Vice-President. The organization insisted on women taking part in leadership. It produced many dynamic – energetic – women leaders. The UNIA was very unusual in this way. ‰ Make a list of women who are in positions of leadership today – in the community, and in Jamaica or other countries. § What work do they do? § One of you should read out your list for the class.

THE UNIVERSAL AFRICAN MOTOR CORPS:

The UNIA had two paramilitary organizations that functioned like regular armed forces. The Universal African Legion was for men. The Universal African Motor Corps was for women. Members dressed in military uniform and received military training. No other organization in the USA has had a women’s paramilitary group.

THE BLACK CROSS NURSES:

The UNIA also had various auxiliary – supporting – organizations. One of the most powerful and best known was a women’s organization called the Black Cross Nurses. The nurses did social work and learned health care.