This entry is for juvenile audiences. To see the full version of this entry, click here Who was Bessie Coleman? Bessie Coleman was born one of thirteen children on January 26, 1892, in Atlanta, Texas, to a family of sharecroppers. Her mother was Black, and her father was multiracial, … Read MoreBessie Coleman (1892-1926) [Children’s Edition]
Who are they: Dasia Taylor is a young scientist and inventor. In 2019 at 15 years old, she created surgical sutures that change color, indicating whether a patient’s wound is infected. Why are they important to know about: A huge advocate for racial equality, Dasia … Read MoreDasia Taylor (2004- ) [Children’s Edition]
Who are they: Eleven-year-old Sarah Rector became the “richest colored girl in America” when she inherited millions of dollars. Why are they important to know about: Native Americans and black people who were citizens of Indian Territory, and who had money and property, had to … Read MoreSarah Rector (1902-1967) [Children’s Edition]
Who are they: Barbara Ann Posey was one of the most important youth leaders early in the campaign to desegregate public spaces in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Why are they important to know about: Barbara Ann Posey took a public stand against racial injustice when she … Read MoreBarbara Ann Posey Jones (1943- ) [Children’s Edition]
Who are they: Charles Mitchell was born into slavery in 1847 on the Marengo Plantation in Maryland. He was born to a free white man, also named Charles Mitchell, and a slave woman whose name is unknown. In 1855, he was brought to the Washington … Read MoreCharles Mitchell, Slavery, and Washington Territory in 1860 [Children’s Edition]
What Happened: In May of 1963, thousands of Black children ages 7-18, conducted peaceful protests around the city of Birmingham, Alabama. They were organized by activist James Bevel, and their purpose was to draw attention to the Civil Rights Movement. They were met with anger … Read MoreThe Birmingham Children’s Crusade (May 1963) [Children’s Edition]
This entry is for juvenile audiences. To see the full version of this entry, click here. Who are they: Mae Jemison became the first African American woman in space during her flight on the STS-47, Spacelab-J in September of 1992. Why are they important to … Read MoreMae C. Jemison (1956- ) [Children’s Edition]
This entry is for juvenile audiences. To see the full version of this entry, click here. Who are they: On November 3, 2020, Kamala Devi Harris was elected Vice-President of the United States. She is the first Black woman and first woman of South Asian … Read MoreKamala Devi Harris (1964- ) [Children’s Edition]
