Contributions and accomplishments of black history-makers your students may not have heard of
From Mary Jackson becoming NASA’s first Black female engineer in 1958 to Michael Jordan’s famous dunk from the free-throw line in 1987, there are countless moments in American history that captivate us all – and many others students may not know. This past school year, we launched a #WinAtSocial LIVE Lesson that introduced students to black history-makers that they may not have heard of, from the first female self-made millionaire to a member of the first successful North Pole expedition.
As we honor and celebrate Black History, we also reflect on the unsung heroes and achievements of Black Americans:
1. Madam C.J. Walker: America’s First Female Self-Made Millionaire
Madam C.J. Walker was an entrepreneur who became America’s first female self-made millionaire. Walker made her fortune through her cosmetic and hair care line for black women, the Madam C. J. Walker Manufacturing Company. Not only was she passionate about her marketing line, but she was an activist and philanthropist as well.
2. Shirley Chisholm: Congresswoman
Shirley Chisholm was the first Black woman elected to Congress in 1968 and the first Black candidate to run for President from a major party. In 2015, Chisholm was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
3. Marshall “Major” Taylor: World Champion
Marshall “Major” Taylor was the first Black American to become a world champion as the world’s fastest cyclist in 1899. Off the track, he served as a role model for other athletes who faced racial discrimination.
4. Matthew Henson: Member of First Successful North Pole Expedition
Matthew Henson was part of the first successful U.S. expedition to the North Pole and awarded the National Geographic Society’s Hubbard Medal. He accompanied American explorer, Robert Pearly, on seven voyages to the Arctic, spending a total of 18 years together.
5. Mary Jackson: NASA Engineer
Mary Jackson was the first African-American female NASA engineer. Her skills in math and science made her stand out, serving as an important role in the Space Program. Mary Jackson was a role model for women around the world and minorities as they advanced their careers in STEM.
6. Claudette Colvin: The First to Refuse to Move to the Back of a Bus
When Claudette was 15 years old, she refused to move to the back of a segregated bus — nine months before Rosa Parks also refused. Colvin’s story of strength and challenging the law is not as widely known as other civil rights activists, but she led the way in showing students the power one voice can have.
7. Bayard Rustin: Activist for Civil Rights, Gay Rights, and Non-Violence
Bayard Rustin was a leader in civil rights, non-violence, and gay rights. Because of his sexuality and the times, he often acted behind the scenes. In the 1980’s he became a public advocate, speaking at events and conferences.
8. Fritz Pollard: NFL Head Coach
Fritz Pollard was a famous football player and coach. He was the first Black head coach for the National Football League (NFL). One football player called Pollard “one of the greatest runners these eyes have ever seen.”
9. Jane Bolin: Lawyer and Judge
Jane Bolin was the first Black woman to graduate from Yale Law School, the first to join the New York City Bar Association, and the first African-American female judge.
10. Garrett Morgan: Entrepreneur, Businessman, and Inventor
With only a 6th grade education, Garrett Morgan was an entrepreneur, businessman, and inventor, creating change for his community and passionate about civic engagement. Some of his most famous inventions include the three-position traffic signal, a smoke hood, and a hair straightening solution.
Moments and Movements
Our lives have been profoundly influenced by the impact of Black Americans and the movements and moments captured in the media, and now across social media on a daily basis. All over the world, social media is constantly capturing real-world events and impacting and empowering students to use their Mic For Good. One example of activism is Aniya Butler, who is part of Youth Vs. Apocalypse, which is a youth climate action group that amplifies black voices and speaks up for environmental justice. Aniya empowers young people all over the country and is passionate about equipping students with the tools they need to learn more about environmental issues.
As Black History Month comes to an end, how do you honor the past while participating in the present? What conversations are you having whether in the classroom or around the dinner table?
About The Social Institute
The Social Institute partners with schools nationwide to empower students, families, and educators to positively navigate student well-being, social media, and technology. Schools access our student-respected, turnkey curriculum through WinAtSocial.com, an interactive, gamified learning platform. With solutions for students, parents, and educators, we offer a systemic and comprehensive student well-being program through a unique and positive approach. We are proud to serve public and independent partners such as Ravenscroft School, Woodward Academy, Oldfields School, All Saints Episcopal School, Lake Forest School District, Boston Public Schools, and more. For more information on how to empower your students to make high-character decisions online and off, please contact us.