The Rise of Black Women in American Politics: 5 Early Influential Figures Who Broke Barriers

From the early dark periods of the equal rights struggle to the current era, there's a sustained seismic shift represented by Black women who are pioneering sustainable changes and developments in America and beyond.

Over time, many resilient Black women have shattered glass ceilings and imprinted their names in the annals of America's diverse society where racial inequality, gender difference, and all forms of social disparity are impeding the progress of Blacks.

African-American women in politics and in other spheres of America have shown a unique blend from their male counterparts and pioneered a more accommodating and united society for Blacks, Whites, and other peoples of color.

Notable names such as Muriel Bowser from Washington, D.C., Sharon Weston Broome hailing from Baton Rouge, LaToya Cantrell from New Orleans, and Atlanta's Keisha Lance Bottoms have all set historic precedents.

Salute must be given to Phyllis Wheatley's profound prose and the groundbreaking actions made by Shirley Chisholm which are simply inspiring. Acknowledging Barbara Jordan’s unwavering determination as well as Cardiss Collins and Katie Hall's relentless courage. These praise-worthy Black women have fearlessly taken a stand against racial discrimination and other unacceptable acts against Blacks.

Today, we honor the visionary leadership and remarkable contributions of some early African-American women who revolutionized the political landscape in America, advocated equal rights for all races, and inspired novel changes.

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Shirley Chisholm, 1969-83

In the 1960s, Shirley Chisholm became a powerful figure for black women in politics, facing down numerous perilous hurdles and overt racial discrimination. She kickstarted her advocacy in the 1960s, contributing to entities that battled for voting privileges, such as the League, with a focus on advocating for civic education and civil rights. Shirley Chisholm made history as the first African American woman to become a Congress member (1968) and the first woman and African American to vie for a presidential nomination from one of the two principal American political parties (1972). In 1964, Chisholm was elected to the New York State Legislature, where she served for four years. Following a court-mandated redistricting that resulted in a predominantly Democratic district in her neighborhood.

Chisholm made history yet again in 1968 by becoming the first African-American woman chosen for Congress. For a substantial stint of 15 years, from 1968 to 1983, across seven Congressional tenures, the uncompromising "Warrior Shirley" Chisholm fortified the United States House of Representatives with her vigorous presence. Her ambitious contributions encompassed over 50 legislative initiatives as she valiantly crusaded for gender and racial equality, the impoverished population's concerns, and the cessation of the Vietnam War. Known also as a pioneering force, she co-initiated the National Women's Political Caucus in 1971, paving the way for women in politics. A historic milestone was reached in 1977 when she became the inaugural Black woman, and only the second woman overall, to be a member of the mighty House Rules Committee. That same year, she tied the knot with Arthur Hardwick Jr., a legislator hailing from the Empire State.

Barbara Jordan, 1973-79

Barbara Charline Jordan, an American lawyer, educator, and politician, was born on February 21, 1936, in Houston, Texas, U.S. She passed away on January 17, 1996, in Austin, Texas. Jordan served in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1973 to 1979, representing Texas. Notably, she holds the distinction of being the first African-American congresswoman from the South.

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As the initial Black woman elected to Congress from the Deep South, Jordan's political focus centered on local community interests rather than broader issues such as women's and civil rights. Her approach aimed to achieve tangible results, as she strategically operated within the existing power structures and refrained from aligning herself with any specific interest group.

Jordan's remarkable impact as a campaigner for the Democrats during the 1960 presidential election paved the way for her remarkable journey into the realm of politics. Despite facing setbacks as an unsuccessful candidate for the Texas House of Representatives in 1962 and 1964, her unwavering determination led her to achieve a groundbreaking milestone in 1966 - becoming the first African-American member of the Texas Senate since 1883 and the first woman ever elected to that esteemed legislative body.

What truly set Jordan apart in the realm of Texas politics was her profound understanding of and unwavering commitment to the intricacies of the political process. Her astute knowledge and adherence to the rules of the game propelled her to unparalleled success. This success was further solidified when she secured seats on both the Education and Labor Committee, as well as the Judiciary Committee.

However, it was her role on the Judiciary Committee that truly catapulted Jordan into the national spotlight. In 1974, during the tumultuous era of the Watergate scandal, her involvement in the consideration of President Richard Nixon's impeachment showcased her unwavering dedication to justice and integrity. This pivotal moment not only solidified her reputation as a formidable force in politics but also cemented her as a beacon of hope for those who sought truth and accountability.

Cardiss Collins??? 1973-97

Cardiss Collins, the first black congresswoman from Illinois, passed away on Sunday in Arlington, Virginia at the age of 81. Collins initially ran for a Chicago Congressional seat after her husband, Representative George Collins, died in a plane crash in 1972. Despite having no prior political experience, she was elected by Chicago voters and served for nearly 25 years as a champion for racial and gender equality, expanded healthcare for the poor, and the legacy of her late husband. Collins' tenure in Congress spanned 12 consecutive terms, making her one of the longest-serving minority members in its history.

She paved the way in the field of legislation, making a significant and enduring difference in the lives of numerous individuals. In 1990 through her bold advocacy, she successfully broadened the scope of Medicare coverage to include mammography screening, empowering older and disabled women to prioritize their health. Additionally, she played a crucial role in raising awareness about breast cancer, serving as a catalyst for a nationwide movement. Her unwavering commitment to child safety resulted in the implementation of laws that improved toy labeling and bicycle helmet standards, while also expanding childcare services for federal employees. Furthermore, she tirelessly fought for air travel safety and equality, sponsoring measures that promoted diversity and inclusion within the industry. Her groundbreaking legislation also played a pivotal role in encouraging gender equity in collegiate sports.

Eva M. Clayton, 1992-2003

With the guidance of civil rights activist and attorney Vernon Jordan, Clayton pursued a congressional seat in a district located in north-central North Carolina. Despite an unsuccessful attempt, Clayton's initial campaign resulted in an increase in black voter registration. During the early 1970s, she contributed her efforts to various public and private initiatives, including the North Carolina Health Manpower Development Program at the University of North Carolina. In 1974, Clayton co-founded and assumed the role of executive director at the Soul City Foundation, an organization dedicated to renovating dilapidated buildings into homeless shelters and daycare centers. Additionally, Clayton played a pivotal role in the triumphant gubernatorial campaign of Jim Hunt, who later appointed her as the assistant secretary of the North Carolina Department of Natural Resources and Community Development. Clayton served in this capacity from 1977 to 1981. In 1982, she successfully ran for the Warren County Board of Commissioners and subsequently chaired the board until 1990.

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Following Representative Walter Jones, Sr.'s retirement announcement in 1992, Clayton entered the Democratic primary to fill his vacant seat. Eventually, she emerged victorious in the special election, serving the remaining two months of Jones's term in the 102nd Congress (1991-1993). Clayton then triumphed over Republican Ted Tyler in the subsequent election, securing a full term in the 103rd Congress (1993-1995).

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As the first African American congresswoman representing North Carolina and only the second African American representative since 1901, Eva M. Clayton constructed her political career around safeguarding the agricultural interests of her rural district and advocating for federal assistance to disadvantaged Black communities. Throughout her ten-year tenure as the U.S. Representative for North Carolina's 1st Congressional District, Clayton demonstrated exceptional service, actively participating in the Agriculture and Budget Committees, as well as assuming the role of ranking member in the Agriculture Department's Operations Oversight, Nutrition, and Forestry Subcommittees.

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Katie Hall, 1982-85

Katie Hall's journey to becoming the first Black female from Indiana to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives was unexpected. She was an American educator in Gary, Indiana, who never imagined herself as a politician. However, fate had other plans for her when Indiana Democratic Representative Adam Benjamin Jr. passed away suddenly in 1982. Hall was chosen to fill his vacant seat and won, making history in the process. On November 2, 1982, she was sworn into federal office, becoming the first black woman from Indiana elected to the U.S. House of Representatives. Hall represented Indiana's 1st Congressional District in the final months of the 97th Congress and an entire two-year term in the 98th Congress from 1983 to 1985. Her legacy as a trailblazer in politics and education continues to inspire generations.

Hall was a prominent figure dedicated to labor rights, educational matters, and women's concerns. However, her most unforgettable contribution was when she emerged as the Chairwoman of the Sub-committee on Census and Population under the Post Office and Civil Service. Her pivotal role in sponsoring legislative bills and spearheading the move within the U.S. House in 1983 laid the foundation for acknowledging Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday as a nationwide holiday. Even though previous attempts had been unsuccessful, she introduced H.R. 3706 in July 1983 to observe the third Monday of January as a federal holiday to pay tribute to King. This proposed bill sailed through the House on August 2, 1983, and subsequently got the seal of approval from President Ronald Reagan on November 2, 1983.