Claudette Colvin-
A civil rights activist from Birmingham, Alabama, was born on September 5, 1939. She played a pioneering role in the fight against bus segregation before Rosa Parks became well-known for her stance. On March 2, 1955, as a pregnant teenager, Colvin was arrested for not giving up her seat on a full bus. Civil rights leaders at the time chose not to make Colvin the face of their movement because they felt her dark complexion and teenage pregnancy might not garner the public’s support. Despite lacking the backing of these leaders, Colvin remained determined and continued to stand against the bus segregation laws.
Frida Kahlo-
The renowned Mexican painter celebrated for her distinctive art influenced by Mexico and her remarkable resilience, was born on July 6th, 1907. At just six years old, Kahlo battled polio, which left her right leg painfully misshapen. This not only postponed her education but also impacted her throughout her life. Nevertheless, Kahlo thrived until a fateful day on September 17, 1925. At eighteen, Kahlo sustained serious injuries in a collision involving a tram and a bus while traveling home from school. The accident resulted in a month-long hospital stay and a three-month recovery period in bed. This event was a turning point, propelling Kahlo’s artistic journey. Her extraordinary determination and innovative art have secured her a permanent place in the annals of art history.
Florence Nightingale-
Often referred to as “The Lady with the Lamp,” came into the world on May 12, 1820, and is recognized as the pioneer of contemporary nursing. From a young age, she exhibited a natural talent for numbers, writing, and languages. Despite expectations for her to enter into marriage, Nightingale chose to apply her exceptional abilities to assist those in need, especially the impoverished and wounded. Her expertise proved invaluable during the Crimean War, where she, along with 38 volunteer helpers, provided care for numerous injured British troops in Constantinople.
Patsy Mink-
Patsy Matsu Mink, a sansei Japanese American and trailblazing politician, was born on December 6, 1927. She holds the distinction of being both the first woman of color in the United States House of Representatives and the first Asian-American woman to serve in Congress. Mink graduated from the University of Chicago’s law school and became the first Japanese-American woman licensed to practice law in Hawaii. In her tenure as a Representative, Mink championed the causes of racial and gender equality, affordable child care, and bilingual education. She was also a key proponent and co-author of the groundbreaking Title IX legislation. Mink’s dedication to public service is reflected in her 12 terms in the House of Representatives.
Maria Tallchief-
Born on January 25, 1925, on an Osage reservation in Oklahoma, Elizabeth Marie Tallchief would rise to become a groundbreaking American ballerina. Renowned for her pioneering role as the country’s first celebrated prima ballerina, Tallchief transformed the ballet scene. Dance was her true passion from the start. Seeking to nurture her talent, her family uprooted to Los Angeles, a strategic move to enhance her dance opportunities. Upon completing high school, she set her sights on New York, intent on pursuing a professional career in ballet. It was there that she joined the esteemed Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo and soon secured a solo performance that captured the attention of the iconic choreographer George Balanchine. Under his guidance, Tallchief soared up the ballet ranks, and in 1945, she broke barriers as both the first American and the first Native American to perform with the Paris Opera Ballet. Her most memorable performances include the lead role in “Firebird” with the New York City Ballet and as “The Sugar Plum Fairy” in “The Nutcracker.” Unwavering in her cultural identity, Tallchief refused to change her name or heritage to fit others’ expectations, establishing a legacy as an inspiration not just to Native American dancers but to all American prima ballerinas.
