February is a month dedicated to love and celebration of Black achievements, contributions, and history that have helped shape our culture and society. In recognition, the Women’s Caucus would like to highlight a few notable African American women in our history.
Early 1900s: Madam CJ Walker, was an entrepreneur and successful creator of hair care products for African American women. She was the first American woman to become a self-made millionaire.
1950s: Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat on a public bus to a white man. Ms. Parks is credited with helping to jump start the civil rights movement through her actions.
1969: A result of the civil rights movement was the election of Shirley Chisholm, the first African American woman in Congress.
2021: Kamala Harris became the first woman to become our vice president. Amanda Gorman became the youngest inaugural poet in U.S. history.
2022: Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson is confirmed and sworn in as the 116th U.S. Supreme Court justice, the first Black woman to serve on the high court.
Each of these women were trailblazers when society did not embrace gender or racial equality. We need to celebrate the accomplishments of all people of color, especially the women. These women throughout history have sacrificed for the greater good and are an inspiration to all women.
Read on for some ideas on how you can learn, celebrate and get involved: Watch. Listen. Learn: From Netflix to Disney +, today's popular streaming services are paying tribute this month to Black films, documentaries, and series commemorating important Black heroes and events throughout history. PBS also offers several free video documentary collections, which highlight shorter pieces of Black history for all ages.
Music streaming services have also launched collections for Black History Month including Spotify, Tidal, and Amazon Music. Celebrating some of the iconic artists and musicians who have shown musical influence over the years.
Celebrate Small Business Owners:
Amazon has launched a Black-owned storefront, sharing stories of entrepreneurship and innovation. Customers can also take a step behind the storefront to learn how these inspiring small business owners have lead their teams, inspired their communities, and persevered despite challenges. #SupportBlackBusiness by Clicking HERE.
Raise your Voice:
This also offers a time to reflect on the continued struggle for racial justice and a vital opportunity to dispel ignorance, prejudice, and fear through education about multiculturalism and the history of the countless contributions of the Black community.
We believe that to go far, we must go together. Join us as we celebrate the stories,
contributions and history of the Black Community.
Comments