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Motherism is

for those who care
for their communities
like a mother cared
for them.

Motherism is not for the faint of heart.
-Dr. LEW
Yoruba Symbol
Dr. Lynne Washington
Welcome to the official website of Dr. LEW, a spiritualist, teacher, pastor, and advocate for Black Women's Spirituality. Explore Motherism, discover her teachings, and join the journey toward healing and community empowerment.

Welcome & Invitation

Motherism in Honor of Our Mothers

Motherism is more than a philosophy; it is a way of life, a call to nurture, protect, and uplift communities with the same love and care that a mother offers her children. Rooted in spirituality, environmentalism, and a deep sense of responsibility, Motherism champions the idea that every individual has the power to heal and co-create a better world.

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COPYRIGHT PERMISSION NEEDED | DRLEW.ORG

Are you ready for the 

revoLEWtion? 

Dr. Lynne E. Washington, also known as Dr. LEW, grew up in Dayton, Ohio, with deep roots in a family rich with migration stories. Despite early challenges, she pursued higher education, leading to a successful career in banking before transitioning to ordained ministry. Her journey includes significant roles in community development, spiritual leadership, and a focus on healing and reconciliation within the church and beyond. 

Key topics of Expertise: Black Women's Liberation Theories: Motherism, Africana Womanism, and Black Women's Spirituality.

Dr. Lynne Washington in white speaking

Discover More:

The Highlights of Dr. LEW's Work

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Spiritual Gumbo Podcast

Tune into "Spiritual Gumbeaux," where 

Dr. LEW stirs up a rich blend of spiritual wisdom and leadership insights, simmered to perfection. Like a hearty gumbo, each episode is a mix of soulful ingredients—faith, culture, and consciousness—coming together to nourish your spirit.

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Fight Against Banned Books

Imagine being part of a movement that stands against the banning of books, ensuring that every voice and story, especially those of color, are heard and valued. By exploring the Cascade Community Center’s collection curated by Dr. LEW, immerse yourself in powerful narratives like "Sulwe" by Lupita Nyong'o and "Born Across the Water." These books celebrate heritage and resist the erasure of rich cultural stories, offering you a chance to connect with and honor these essential narratives. Your involvement makes a difference in preserving and uplifting these voices.

Stand Against Banned Books
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Upcoming Events/Publications

Stay informed about Dr. LEW’s upcoming speaking engagements and publications, including her keynote lecture at the UNESCO Osun Festival and the anticipated release of "Leading in a Lappa: Portraitures of African American Women Chiefs."

Spiritual Gumbo logo

Upcoming Events/Publications

Stay informed about Dr. LEW’s upcoming speaking engagements and publications, including her keynote lecture at the UNESCO Osun Festival and the anticipated release of "Leading in a Lappa: Portraitures of African American Women Chiefs."

Spiritual Gumbo Podcast

Tune into "Spiritual Gumbeaux," where 

Dr. LEW stirs up a rich blend of spiritual wisdom and leadership insights, simmered to perfection. Like a hearty gumbo, each episode is a mix of soulful ingredients—faith, culture, and consciousness—coming together to nourish your spirit.

Fight Against Banned Books

Imagine being part of a movement that stands against the banning of books, ensuring that every voice and story, especially those of color, are heard and valued. By exploring the Cascade Community Center’s collection curated

by Dr. LEW, immerse yourself in powerful narratives like "Sulwe" by Lupita Nyong'o and "Born Across the Water." These

books celebrate heritage and resist the erasure of rich cultural stories, offering you a chance to connect with and honor these essential narratives. Your involvement makes a difference in preserving and uplifting these voices.

banned baook
Dr. Lynne washington graduate
Stand Against Banned Books

Motherism is more than a philosophy; it is a way of life, a call to nurture, protect, and uplift communities with the same love and care that a mother offers her children. Rooted in spirituality, environmentalism, and a deep sense of responsibility, Motherism champions the idea that every individual has the power to heal and co-create a better world.

Art with quote

COPYRIGHT PERMISSIONS NEEDED. DRLEW.ORG

African Art Image of mother two women opposed

What is Motherism?

A Motherist is a humanist, a healer, and a co-creator with God and nature. They are the architects of communities, the builders and rebuilders of societies, and the nurturing force that ensures the well-being of humanity and the planet. As environmentalists, Motherists understand that caring for the earth is synonymous with caring for our communities. Their work is not limited by borders, but extends globally, wherever there is a need for healing and rebuilding.

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