[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 48 (Wednesday, March 15, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E603]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                   IN HONOR OF THE GIRL FRIENDS, INC.

                                 ______


                         HON. JAMES E. CLYBURN

                           of south carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, March 15, 1995
  Mr. CLYBURN. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to 
bring to the attention of my distinguished colleagues the fine record 
of one of the oldest civic/social organizations of African-American 
women in these United States--the Girl Friends, Inc. Founded in 1972, 
its primary focus was to promote friendship and to foster goodwill. 
Under the legal guidance of the Honorable Thurgood Marshall, the 
organization was incorporated in 1938.
  The Girl Friends, Inc. is a national organization comprised of 1,250 
socially and professionally prominent women, including national 
political figures, Federal judges, medical doctors, college presidents, 
accountants, lawyers, and teachers.
  Presently, there are 40 chapters located in major American cities, 
representing leaders and spheres of influence with an ongoing 
commitment to contribute to civic activities that enhance the quality 
of community life.
  The organization has given major financial assistance to community 
organizations, including the United Negro College Fund, the NAACP legal 
defense fund, the children's defense fund, and the NAACP.
  Though its local chapters, it gives annually to local groups such as 
the heart fund, the sickle cell fund, the Cancer Research Foundation, 
the Boys and Girls Club of America, and local theatre groups for 
children.
  I would like to congratulate the national president of the Girl 
Friends, Inc., Mrs. Virginia Scott Speller of Houston, TX, for giving 
leadership during these days of extending a helping hand to those in 
our communities who are in need, especially students who want to 
complete a college education and senior citizens who need care and 
attention.
  I also salute the more than 1,200 members who take time from their 
professional duties to give of themselves to help make our country a 
responsive and caring Nation.
  Mr. Speaker, I commend the national officers and all of the 40 
chapters of the Girl Friends, Inc. for their 68 years of service to 
these United States.


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