History of the DAR

The DAR is an organization for women who are descendants of individuals involved in the United States' independence

Discrimination in the DAR

Racial discrimination

The DAR faced criticism for racial discrimination in the early 20th century, leading to the Marian Anderson Incident

Exclusionary practices

The DAR's policy of prohibiting African American artists from performing at Constitution Hall highlighted their exclusionary practices

Policy change and ongoing challenges

The DAR officially reversed its discriminatory policy in 1952, but continued to face allegations of racism in later years

Denial of performance at Constitution Hall

In 1939, the DAR denied Marian Anderson the opportunity to perform at Constitution Hall due to their discriminatory policy

Public outcry and historic concert at the Lincoln Memorial

The DAR's decision sparked public outcry and led to a historic concert at the Lincoln Memorial, organized by President Franklin D. Roosevelt and others

Impact on civil rights and the DAR

The Marian Anderson Incident brought attention to racial discrimination in the United States and prompted the DAR to amend their policies

Recognition of diverse patriots

In recent decades, the DAR has undertaken initiatives to recognize the diverse range of patriots who contributed to the American Revolution

Efforts towards inclusivity

Publication of "Forgotten Patriots"

The DAR published "Forgotten Patriots" in 2008, documenting the roles played by African American and Native American individuals in the American Revolution

Recognition of Mary Hemings Bell

In 2007, the DAR posthumously recognized Mary Hemings Bell, an enslaved woman, as a "Patriot of the Revolution," allowing her female descendants to join the organization

Progress towards inclusivity

In 2019, Wilhelmena Rhodes Kelly became the first African American to be elected to the DAR National Board of Management, serving as the New York State Regent