Sheroes. Powerful and mighty. Peaceful and harmonious. Passionate and resilient. Courageous and committed. United and unyielding. These are just a few ways we describe the women of the Civil Rights Movement. Not always seen publicly, but always leaving an indelible imprint. As Black History Month comes to a close, join us in saluting these awe-inspiring “sheroes.”
Most of us know about the significant contributions of Rosa Parks, Coretta Scott King, and Maya Angelou. However, many of the sheroes of the Civil Rights Movement remain largely unknown and unrecognized. Ella Baker, Septima Poinsette Clark, Dorothy Cotton, Dorothy Height, Fannie Lou Hamer, Diane Nash, Claudette Colvin, and JoAnn Robinson, among many others, were significant grassroots and behind-the-scenes forces.
Sheroe Ella Baker: Advisor and Mentor (1903- 1986)
Sheroe Septima Poinsette Clark: Educator and Advocate (1898–1987)
Sheroe Claudette Colvin: Original Bus Boycotter (1935– )
Sheroe Dorothy Cotton: Educator and Organizer (1930 –2018)
Sheroe Fannie Lou Hamer: Voting Rights Advocate (1917–1977)
Sheroe Dorothy Height: Civil Rights and Political Leader (1912–2010)
Sheroe Diane Nash: Student Leader (1938– )
Sheroe JoAnn Robinson: Strategist and Organizer (1912–1992)
It is undeniable. Sheroes built the Civil Rights Movement’s organizational infrastructure, crafted its legal arguments, and mentored its young activists.They functioned as the movement’s backbone, from local initiatives to national marches. Women played a crucial role as community organizers, educators, strategists, leaders, and advocates. These sheroes gave their all to the movement despite the dangers of violence, homelessness, unemployment, sexual assault, and death.
Thank you sheroes for improving the lives of Blacks throughout our nation.
