Under motto 'Unity and Charity,' CDA holds convention
CHARLOTTE — Essie Walker, a member of Our Lady of Consolation Church in Charlotte, has been elected a national director of the Catholic Daughters of the Americas – the first African-American from North Carolina in this top leadership position.
Walker, state regent of North Carolina for the CDA, was named to the post during the organization's 56th biennial national convention in Pittsburgh July 20-24. One of nine national directors, she will begin a two-year term starting in September.
The CDA is the oldest and largest Catholic women's group in the Americas. Formed in 1903 in Utica, N.Y., as a women's auxiliary of the Knights of Columbus, today it numbers 68,000 members in more than 1,300 courts in 45 states across the country, as well as Puerto Rico, Mexico, Peru, Guam and the Virgin Islands.
The national convention emphasized the CDA's motto, "Unity and Charity," and Walker sees the role of the CDA within the Church as one of fostering unity and inclusion.
The first African-American from North Carolina to hold the position of national director, Walker emphasizes the importance of unity in her own leadership style, making it a personal mission to connect with other members of the CDA.
"I believe that the best way to serve your people is through including everyone," she says.
Walker has been a member of Our Lady of Consolation Church for more than 30 years, where she helped to start a seniors group. Beginning in her parish and continuing with her service in the CDA, she has always been compelled to build connections in the community. She sees the organization as an opportunity for women of the Church to establish connections with one another.
"I feel that the CDA allows women to bond with one another through their faith," Walker says.
Walker has held other leadership positions in the CDA, beginning as treasurer and rising to state regent for North Carolina.
"My philosophy as a leader is: to be a good leader you must learn to follow," Walker says.
Walker sees her position in the CDA also as a way to encourage more women to get involved in the Church.
"I hope other African-Americans will see an opportunity through my election. I hope I inspire other women to strive for their goals," she says.
The CDA convention featured a keynote speech by Bishop Donald J. Kettler of St. Cloud, Minn. Outgoing national regent Shirley Seyfried welcomed the newly elected national officers, who were installed at a Mass and ceremony July 23 by Pittsburgh Bishop David A. Zubik.
— Rachel McKimmon, Intern; William Cone of Catholic News Service contributed.