Dating back to the 19th century, African American women have advocated for civil rights. Their resistance to racism and oppression propelled them to form organizations to improve living conditions for all African Americans. They teamed up to work tirelessly towards instituting the backbone of social and civil justice. For decades, Black women have challenged the masses to advocate for and embrace justice and equality for all.
History often remembers men who fought for civil liberty, but the unsung heroes are often Black women on the front lines of social change. It is their grit and unrelenting commitment that has spurred change. During the fight for civil rights, hundreds of unidentified women left their mark on history. For decades, Black women have demanded social equity and justice by their unrelenting dedication. On the heels of the racial tensions and protests that marked 2020, Black women continued to advocate for justice.
Although today some parts of society undervalue the labor and commitment of Black women who developed radical ideas for social transformation and anti-racism, the fact is that despite this, Black women continue to fight for social reform. For years, they have amplified their voices and spoken out on behalf of the voiceless.
During the Civil Rights era, hundreds of bold African American women spearheaded grassroots efforts. Although they came from diverse socio-economic backgrounds, they came together to stand up for the cause they believed in.
In 1955, a simple act of defiance kindled what we know today as the launch of the Civil Rights Movement. Rosa Parks may have pioneered a movement by her defiance, but her unwavering determination earned her the title of “mother of the civil rights movement.”
We need to appreciate Black women more for everything that they add to society. From Harriett Tubman to Rosa Parks and Stacey Abrams, Black women continue to stand and fill in many roles as it relates to advocacy.