the dubois circle

In 1906, a group of distinguished women in Baltimore, Maryland was handpicked to form an auxiliary organization to support Dr. W. E. B. Du Bois and the members of the local branch of the Niagara Movement in their fight against the social, political, and economic injustices faced by African Americans.

In January 1906, these women—Margaret Hawkins, Eva Jenifer, Minnie Gaines, Lelia Waller, and Caroline Cook—formally established The DuBois Circle.

In its early years, the organization defined its purpose as the pursuit of literary study, with meetings centered on discussions of art, culture, and intellectual development. Members gathered monthly in their homes, primarily along Druid Hill Avenue and the surrounding neighborhoods, creating a space for thoughtful dialogue, community building, and collective purpose.

As times changed, so did the work of the Circle. Over the decades, The DuBois Circle has evolved to address the pressing issues of each era, engaging with local, national, and global concerns and examining how its members could contribute meaningfully to social progress. This adaptability has allowed the organization to remain relevant, responsive, and committed to justice for more than a century.