Meaning: This quote by Mary McLeod Bethune, an influential educator and civil rights leader, emphasizes the importance of evaluating the value of a race or community based on the character and contributions of its women. Mary McLeod Bethune was a prominent figure in the struggle for racial and gender equality in the United States during the early to mid-20th century. As an African American woman who founded a school for African American girls in Daytona Beach, Florida, she was deeply aware of the challenges faced by women and the fundamental role they played in shaping the identity and progress of their communities.

At the heart of Bethune's quote is a recognition of the pivotal role that women play in the social, cultural, and economic fabric of any society. She underscores the idea that the character of a community can be best understood and appreciated through the lens of its women. This sentiment reflects the belief that the status and treatment of women within a society is a critical indicator of its overall health and well-being.

In many cultures and societies, women have historically been undervalued and marginalized, often relegated to subordinate roles and denied equal opportunities for education, employment, and participation in public life. Bethune's quote challenges this status quo by asserting that the worth of a race or community should not be judged solely by its material wealth or achievements, but rather by the character, resilience, and empowerment of its women.

Furthermore, Bethune's emphasis on the character of womanhood implies a broader understanding of the qualities and attributes that women bring to their communities. It recognizes the nurturing, compassionate, and resilient nature of women, as well as their capacity for leadership, innovation, and social change. By highlighting the character of womanhood, Bethune celebrates the multifaceted contributions of women in shaping the moral and ethical foundations of their societies.

In the context of racial equality and civil rights, Bethune's quote also serves as a powerful reminder of the intersectionality of gender and race. As an African American woman who was deeply engaged in the struggle for racial justice, Bethune understood the unique challenges and strengths of black women in American society. Her quote reflects a nuanced understanding of the interconnectedness of race and gender, and the need to address the specific experiences and contributions of women of color within the broader discourse of social justice.

Moreover, Bethune's advocacy for the recognition of women's character and worth aligns with her commitment to education and empowerment. As the founder of the Daytona Normal and Industrial Institute for Negro Girls, later known as Bethune-Cookman College, she dedicated her life to providing educational opportunities for African American women and girls. Through education, she sought to cultivate the character, intellect, and leadership potential of women, thereby enriching the fabric of African American communities and society as a whole.

In conclusion, Mary McLeod Bethune's quote eloquently captures the significance of evaluating the worth of a race or community through the lens of its womanhood. Her words resonate with a profound recognition of the multifaceted contributions of women and the pivotal role they play in shaping the character and progress of their societies. By centering the character of womanhood in her message, Bethune underscores the imperative of recognizing and uplifting the status and contributions of women as a fundamental measure of a society's true worth.