August 2 …

Jewell Jackson McCabe is a transformative American activist whose work in business, politics, and social advocacy has advanced opportunities for African Americans and women while reshaping public discourse on equity and leadership.

Born on August 2, 1945 in Brooklyn, NY, McCabe grew up in a family committed to civil rights and community service, which instilled in her a profound sense of civic duty. Her father was the pioneering broadcaster, Hal Jackson, who broke racial barriers in radio and the sound of urban music, and her brother, Harold B. Jackson Jr., was a trailblazing jurist.

McCabe pursued higher education in political science and public administration, equipping herself to navigate the complexities of both corporate and governmental systems. Early in her career, she was inspired by influential leaders like Shirley Chisholm and A. Philip Randolph, whose blend of political courage and advocacy for social justice shaped her own leadership style.

She gained national recognition as a pioneering figure in organizational leadership when she served as president of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women. In this role, she significantly expanded the group’s impact in business, politics, and public policy.

McCabe developed mentorship programs, advocacy initiatives, and professional development opportunities that empowered Black women to ascend into executive positions and public offices. Among her contemporaries were notable activists and policymakers like Maxine Waters and Barbara Jordan, with whom she collaborated to champion issues of representation, economic equity, and social reform.

McCabe also played a crucial role in mentoring the next generation of leaders, motivating young women to pursue careers in public service and corporate leadership with confidence and strategic insight.

Beyond her work with the National Coalition, McCabe initiated and led projects that connected the corporate and nonprofit sectors, enhancing procurement opportunities for minority-owned businesses and advocating for diversity in corporate leadership. Her strategic efforts shaped public policy at both local and national levels, highlighting the importance of women and African Americans in influencing economic and political dynamics.

Inspired by historical figures like Mary McLeod Bethune and modern social entrepreneurs, she skillfully combined grassroots organizing with high-level advocacy to maximize impact across various sectors.

Throughout her career, McCabe has received numerous accolades acknowledging her contributions to social justice, business, and civic leadership, including honors from civil rights organizations, business associations, and educational institutions.

McCabe’s legacy is manifest in the strengthened presence of Black women in leadership, the heightened visibility of minority enterprises within corporate America, and the ongoing pursuit of social equity through strategic activism and mentorship.

Jewell Jackson McCabe is celebrated for her visionary leadership, her talent for fostering alliances across racial and gender boundaries, and her enduring influence on American society and culture.