Vivian Carter Mason

Vivian Carter Mason (born Vivian Carter; February 10, 1900 – May 10, 1982) was an American advocate for women's and civil rights as well as an ardent supporter of universal education. She served as an influential president of the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) from 1953 to 1957. She is well known for founding the Women's Council for Interracial Cooperation in communities such as Norfolk and Arlington, Virginia, in 1945. Mason also founded the Committee of 100 Women, which allowed for underprivileged children of color in New York City to attend summer camp for free.

Early life Mason was one of eight children born to George Carter, a Methodist minister, and Florence William Carter, a music teacher, in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania.

Education Mason moved to Auburn, New York, during her childhood and attended public schools in the area before attending college at the University of Chicago in 1925 where she studied political economy and social welfare. She later took classes at New York University and Fordham University. In 1931, Mason moved with her son to New York City.

Career Mason's professional life began when she took the job as the program director of the Young Women's Christian Association (YWCA) in Brooklyn, New York. After leaving her position at YWCA, she accepted the position of administrator of the city's Department of Welfare . Mason founded the National Committee of 100 women which serves as a free summer camp for underprivileged children.

National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) On April 17, 1945, Mason jumpstarted the Women's Council for Interracial Cooperation (WCIC). This group represented females from all different racial backgrounds and ethnicities. In 1945, Mason was chosen to represent the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) at the first meeting of the International Women's Democratic Federation in Paris, France. She served on the board of the federation and served as vice president for the American affiliate.