“Shirley Chisholm”

If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair.

Shirley Chisholm, was born in New York City. She was a pioneering African-American politician and advocate for women and minorities. She grew up in both Barbados and Brooklyn, New York, and graduated from Brooklyn College with a Bachelor's Degree in 1946. Before entering politics, she served as the director of a childcare center and an education consultant.

In 1964, Chisholm was elected to the New York State Legislature, where she served for four years. Her career continued in 1968 when she became the first African-American woman elected to Congress, representing New York’s 12th District. Chisholm served in the United States House of Representatives for seven terms, from 1968 to 1983 (91st-97th Congresses).

During her tenure in Congress, Chisholm was an effective advocate for minorities, women, and children. She served on the Education and Labor, Rules, and Veterans Affairs committees and co-founded the Congressional Black Caucus and the National Political Congress of Black Women. Chisholm supported the Equal Rights Amendment, fought to legalize abortions, and was a co-founder of the National Organization for Women (NOW).

In 1972, she became the first African-American woman to run for President of the United States. Despite being blocked from participating in televised primary debates and having limited resources, she garnered 152 delegates' votes. Chisholm faced significant discrimination, with many dismissing her candidacy as a publicity stunt and doubting her seriousness due to her race and gender. She ran to challenge these views and to pave the way for future candidates from marginalized groups. Her campaign aimed to show that the presidency should be open to everyone, regardless of race or gender, and to push the country toward greater inclusivity. Chisholm believed that her candidacy, even if not successful, would make it easier for future women, Black individuals, and other minorities to be taken seriously in their bids for the highest office.

HELLA INSPIRED.