Northwestern University Black-Wimmin in Action
Biography
Established in October of 1990, NUBIA (Northwestern University Black-Wimmin In Action) was formed to address the needs of African-American women—faculty, staff, and students—at Northwestern University. It may have been inspired by the organization Sister Friends: African-American Women of Arizona State University. The organization was initially called the NU Black Women's Support Group, but by 1992 the name had changed to NUBIA. NUBIA's organizational structure consisted of a chairperson, co-chairperson, corresponding secretary, recording secretary, treasurer, and advisory board. Meetings were held at Black House, 1914 Sheridan Road, the location of the Office of African-American Student Affairs.
The mission of NUBIA was to promote advancement, equitable treatment, and employment opportunities for black women at Northwestern University. NUBIA fulfilled its mission by organizing events and speakers geared toward its membership but open to everyone at the University. Among other activities, NUBIA organized bake sales and holiday bazaars, a series of health seminars, and an annual Juneteenth (June 19) event. In 1993, the organization produced a cookbook, “What's Cooking,” with recipes contributed by members. NUBIA also collaborated with other women's organizations on campus, such as ANUW, the Women's Center, and the Gender Studies Program.
Although the organization was not officially disbanded, NUBIA's major activity ended in 2001.