The Legacy of Cicely Tyson

Women’s History Month provides an opportunity to celebrate the marvelous accomplishments of women throughout the history of the world. History informs the present and achievements of women illustrates that the future looks better than the present.

There are a number of women who have had a profound impact on my life directly, like my mother and wife, and indirectly through books, stories, and media. This year, I committed to learn more about Cicely Tyson, as she was a staple in my upbringing through films like Roots and Sounder.

Ms. Tyson was a trailblazing model and actress who demonstrated the attributes of an exemplary woman to the world. She appeared in over 100 film, television, and stage roles, while winning three Emmy’s, a Tony, an Oscar, the Presidential Medal of Freedom, and multiple awards from organizations around the world. Her meticulous pursuit of roles that portrayed Black people with dignity has made our world a better place. Her career was by no means easy, and in a recently released interview with Oprah that was filmed in 2012, she stated:

“I don’t think my life is so meaningful in the sense that I have to walk around talking about it. It’s the life that I’ve lived. I’m the sum total of my life’s experiences. I have profited more from the negative, as opposed to the positive. I really relish and treasure the negative more than the positive, because if I have been able to survive it and reach another level, that has given me more growth, more strength, and more confidence. It has enriched my life more.”

“Challenges make you discover things about yourself that you never really knew.”

-Cicely Tyson

These excerpts are illustrative of Ms. Tyson’s life and career. She grappled with abuse early in life, criticism related to her appearance in movies, discrimination for acting roles, yet these experiences fueled her career and the legacy she’s left on the world. She defined her legacy as unknown by her and one that will be solidified by the millions of people that she influenced in her life and career. Her legacy serves as a constant reminder to pursue things that are difficult in order to achieve growth and purpose. Further, since she did not allow herself to be portrayed in stereotypical roles, black actresses and models that follow her had the opportunity to portray more meaningful roles. She has changed the world by opening doors for women to be viewed positively and appropriately.

As we look at today, women currently hold 6% of CEO positions at S&P 500 companies, which is an all-time high. CEOs like Mary Barra of General Motors are opening doors for the future of leadership. It’s important to learn from the legacies of these women to inform current and future decision-making. Zenith Wealth Partners is a proud investor in GM; not only because they create great products, but because they have excellent leadership that was truly made possible by titans like Cicely Tyson. Our client base is filled with impressive women; many of whom are business owners and leaders. It’s exciting to be able to support their objectives, be a partner in their wealth creation, and watch what their future holds.

Jason Ray

Founder & CEO | Zenith Wealth Partners