(WOMENSENEWS)–1966. The Rev. Dr. Pauli Murray, one of 28 founders, co-authors the statement of purpose that launches the National Organization for Women on June 30:

“The purpose of NOW is to take action to bring women into full participation in the mainstream of American society . . .”

NOW was founded in Washington by those attending the Third National Conference of the Commission on the Status of Women. Betty Friedan, another founder of the direct action feminist organization, was the first president of NOW. Almost 35 years later, it is the largest feminist membership organization in the United States.

For more information:

The National Organization for Women:
http://www.now.org