Pioneering Black Women in Politics

Pioneering Black women in politics have shaped American history through their courage and advocacy. From Shirley Chisholm's groundbreaking congressional run to Kamala Harris's vice presidency, these leaders have fought for justice, equality, and representation for all marginalized communities.

1. Shirley Chisholm

   • First Black woman elected to the U.S. Congress in 1968.
   • Co-founded the Congressional Black Caucus and advocated for social justice and equality.
   • Ran for the Democratic presidential nomination in 1972, breaking barriers for future candidates.

2. Barbara Jordan

   • First Black woman elected to the Texas Senate and the first Southern Black woman in Congress.
   • Gained national attention for her powerful speeches during the Watergate hearings.
   • Advocated for civil rights, social justice, and the protection of the Constitution.

3. Carol Moseley Braun

   • First Black woman elected to the U.S. Senate in 1992.
   • Focused on issues such as education, health care, and civil rights during her tenure.
   • Broke racial and gender barriers, paving the way for future women of color in politics.

4. Fannie Lou Hamer

   • Civil rights activist who co-founded the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party.
   • Advocated for voting rights and social justice, famously stating, "I'm sick and tired of being sick and tired."
   • Her testimony at the 1964 Democratic National Convention highlighted the struggles of Black voters.

5. Ida B. Wells

   • Pioneering journalist and activist who fought against lynching and for civil rights.
   • Co-founder of the NAACP and a prominent advocate for women's suffrage.
   • Used her writing to expose racial injustices and mobilize communities for change.

6. Mary McLeod Bethune

   • Educator and civil rights leader who founded the National Council of Negro Women.
   • Served as an advisor to President Franklin D. Roosevelt, advocating for Black women's rights.
   • Established a school for Black girls that became a significant educational institution.

7. Charlotta Bass

   • First Black woman to own and operate a newspaper in the U.S., the California Eagle.
   • Ran for Vice President in 1952 as the candidate for the Progressive Party.
   • Advocated for civil rights, women's rights, and social justice through journalism and politics.

8. Stacey Abrams

   • Political activist and former Minority Leader of the Georgia House of Representatives.
   • Known for her work in voter registration and combating voter suppression.
   • Became a national figure for her efforts in the 2018 gubernatorial election and beyond.

9. Kamala Harris

   • First Black woman and first South Asian woman elected as Vice President of the United States in 2020.
   • Former U.S. Senator from California, focusing on criminal justice reform and healthcare.
   • Represents a significant milestone in representation for women of color in high political office.

10. Maxine Waters

    • Long-serving Congresswoman known for her outspoken advocacy on issues affecting marginalized communities.
    • Chair of the House Financial Services Committee, focusing on economic justice and consumer protection.
    • A prominent figure in the fight against systemic racism and inequality in America.