In honor of black history month, BSC aims to showcase and celebrate black excellence, to remind ourselves and others that black individuals have always been and continue to be more than capable. Ranging from leading figures in pop culture and civil rights activism to science and politics pioneers, together we will give voice to inspirational stories and applaud tremendous feats.
Wangari Mathai
Wangari Maathai became the first Black woman to win the 2004 Nobel Peace Prize for her environmental work in Kenya. She was also the first woman in East and Central Africa to earn a doctorate degree. Maathai served as the chairman for six years on the National Council of Women in Kenya, and introduced the idea of accomplishing the largest tree-planting campaign in Africa—the Green Belt Movement. The organization has planted over 51 million trees in Kenya since its founding in 1977. Wangari is a symbolism of perseverance, tenacity and resilience and is an inspiration for millions of people today and generations to come.
Works Cited
Maloney, M., Rodriguez, B., & Guy, Z. (2021, February 9). 18 black history heroes you may never have heard of. Marie Claire Magazine. Retrieved January 30, 2022, from https://www.marieclaire.com/culture/news/g4431/black-history-month-unsung-heroes/
Bessie Coleman
Despite being the first licensed Black pilot in the world, Coleman wasn’t recognized as a pioneer in aviation until after her death. Though history has favored Amelia Earhart or the Wright brothers, Coleman—who went to flight school in France in 1919—paved the way for a new generation of diverse fliers like the Tuskegee airmen, Blackbirds, and Flying Hobos. Coleman’s story shows us the importance of fighting the good fight despite the disparities one may face.
Works Cited
Darrisaw, M. (2021, April 30). 26 black Americans you don’t know but should. Oprah Daily. Retrieved January 30, 2022, from https://www.oprahdaily.com /life/g25954127/african- american-historical-figures/?slide=7
Centre Black STEM Coalition 