Community Organizations
Wayne County Black community organizations have played a vital role in the fight for social justice, equality, and empowerment within Black communities. These organizations have been essential in addressing systemic issues like racial discrimination, economic inequality, education disparities, and civil rights violations.
Minority Women’s Network
The local chapter of the Minority Women’s Network was established in 1989. It promoted “economic self-sufficiency” through educational forums and
Richmond High School
Two clubs for African-American students were started in the 1940’s – the Wheatley Girls and the Carver Dubois. These clubs
Voguette Club
The Voguette Club was a social organization for women, started in the 1950’s. They held monthly meetings, held their membership

Esquire Club
The Esquire Club was established in 1935, as a “strictly social club” – an escape from any social or political
Onyx Lodge (Elks) 479 – Ray of Light Temple 305 (Daughter of the Elks)
The Onyx Lodge and the sister group of the Ray of Light Temple were a part of the IBPOEW (Improved
Moore-Irvin American Legion Post 359
The first African American , American-Legion Post was started in 1920, after WWI. It only lasted a few years but