March is Women’s History Month, a time to celebrate women and their accomplishments and contributions to society. Madam C.J. Walker is one such phenomenal woman. Born Sarah Breedlove on December 23, 1867 to formerly enslaved parents, Madam Walker is best known for her hair care products and business acumen.

Madam Walker was the first Black female self-made millionaire.

Madam Walker was also a philanthropist and activist. She was a co-founder of the International League for Darker People whose goal was to unite African Americans with other “people of color” to pursue shared goals at the Paris Peace Conference.

ILDP’s first organizational meeting was held at Madam Walker’s estate, Villa Lewaro, on January 2, 1919. Notable figures in attendance included Marcus Garvey, A. Philip Randolph and Adam Clayton Powell Sr.

ILDP influenced Malcolm X’s internationalism and his formation of the Organization of Afro-American Unity.