As we get deeper into the 2024 election year, it’s important to remember the significant role politics plays in shaping our communities and our nation. For many of us, the faces and voices of those who advocate for our rights and representation in government are not just figures on a screen; they are symbols of progress and change. Black women, in particular, have made remarkable strides in politics, breaking barriers and reshaping the landscape. As Kamala Harris makes headlines as a presidential candidate for 2024, let’s reflect on the trailblazing Black women who have paved the way and continue to inspire.
Kamala Harris: A Historic Presidential Bid
Kamala Harris, the current Vice President of the United States, is now making headlines for her 2024 presidential run. Born in Oakland, California, and educated at Howard University—an esteemed HBCU—Harris’s journey from a promising young lawyer to the second highest office in the land is nothing short of extraordinary. Her career began in the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office, where she made a name for herself as a formidable prosecutor. Harris’s commitment to criminal justice reform and public safety led her to serve as California’s Attorney General, where she championed policies that expanded access to healthcare and improved the criminal justice system.
In 2017, she made history as the second Black woman ever elected to the U.S. Senate. Harris’s tenure was marked by her advocacy for health care reform, economic justice, and civil rights. Her presidential bid in 2024 is not only a personal milestone but a reflection of her dedication to addressing the pressing issues facing our nation. As she seeks the highest office, Harris’s candidacy represents the continuation of a legacy of leadership and resilience.
Shirley Chisholm: The First of Many Firsts
No conversation about Black women in politics is complete without mentioning Shirley Chisholm, the first Black woman elected to Congress in 1968. Born in Brooklyn, New York, and a proud alumna of Brooklyn College, Chisholm’s political career was groundbreaking from the start. Known for her slogan, "Unbought and Unbossed," Chisholm’s work as a U.S. Representative from New York was characterized by her fierce advocacy for the underserved and marginalized.
Chisholm’s impact extended beyond her legislative work; she ran for the Democratic presidential nomination in 1972, making her the first Black woman to seek a major party’s nomination for President of the United States. Her campaign was a significant moment in American political history, demonstrating the power of perseverance and vision. Chisholm’s legacy continues to inspire new generations of women of color in politics.
Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett: A Rising Star
Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett, representing Texas's 30th congressional district, is a new yet impactful presence in American politics. An alumna of Southern Methodist University and the University of Texas School of Law, Crockett’s legal and political career is defined by her advocacy for social justice and equality.
Crockett’s rise to Congress is marked by her work on issues ranging from criminal justice reform to economic opportunity. Her energetic and passionate approach to her role reflects a commitment to addressing the needs of her constituents and advancing progressive policies. As a rising star in politics, Crockett’s career is one to watch in the coming years.
Lori Lightfoot: A Mayor with a Vision
Former Mayor Lori Lightfoot of Chicago is another exemplary figure in Black political leadership. Born in Washington, D.C., and a graduate of the University of Chicago Law School, Lightfoot’s career has been marked by her commitment to justice and reform. Before becoming Mayor, Lightfoot served as President of the Chicago Police Board and was known for her work in advancing police accountability and improving public safety.
Elected as Chicago’s mayor in 2019, Lightfoot’s tenure was focused on tackling systemic issues within the city, including affordable housing, public education, and economic development. Her leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic was particularly notable, as she navigated the challenges with a focus on equity and community support. Lightfoot’s innovative approach to governance and her dedication to her city’s well-being reflect the transformative potential of Black leadership in local government.
Ketanji Brown Jackson: A Pioneer on the Bench
Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson’s journey to the Supreme Court of the United States is a testament to her outstanding legal career and unwavering commitment to justice. Born in Washington, D.C., and an alumna of Harvard Law School, Jackson has built a distinguished career marked by her dedication to fairness and the rule of law.
Before her historic appointment to the Supreme Court, Jackson served with distinction on the U.S. Circuit Court for the District of Columbia Circuit, where she made impactful rulings on crucial issues like immigration and labor rights. Her legal acumen and commitment to upholding constitutional principles earned her widespread recognition.
On June 30, 2022, Jackson was sworn in as the first Black woman to serve on the Supreme Court. Her appointment to the highest court in the land reflects not only her exceptional qualifications but also the significant strides being made toward a more representative judiciary. Jackson’s presence on the Supreme Court underscores the transformative power of diversity and the critical role that Black women play in shaping the legal landscape of the nation.
Stacey Abrams: From Spelman to State Leadership
Stacey Abrams, former Georgia State Representative and a prominent voting rights advocate, is a force to be reckoned with in American politics. A proud alumna of Spelman College, an HBCU that has played a crucial role in her development, Abrams’s political career began with her election to the Georgia House of Representatives, where she served as Minority Leader.
Abrams is perhaps best known for her work in combating voter suppression and advocating for fair election practices through her organization, Fair Fight Action. Her efforts have been instrumental in mobilizing voters and ensuring that every voice is heard. Abrams’s influence was pivotal in the 2020 and 2022 elections, where her advocacy contributed to significant Democratic victories in Georgia. Her impact on the political landscape is a powerful reminder of the importance of grassroots organizing and electoral integrity.
Maxine Waters: A Voice for the People
Congresswoman Maxine Waters has been a stalwart advocate for her constituents and a leading voice on financial oversight and consumer protection. Born in St. Louis, Missouri, and a graduate of California State University, Los Angeles, Waters’s career in politics spans decades of dedicated service.
As Chair of the House Financial Services Committee, Waters has been at the forefront of efforts to regulate financial institutions and protect consumers from unfair practices. Her advocacy extends to issues such as housing, health care, and civil rights. Waters’s unyielding commitment to justice and her fearless approach to holding powerful entities accountable make her a formidable figure in U.S. politics.
Your Role in the Political Landscape
As we navigate this election year, it’s vital to stay informed and engaged with the political process. The achievements of these remarkable Black women in politics remind us of the power of representation and the importance of advocacy. They have broken barriers and paved the way for future generations, but their work is far from over.
At HBCU Leggings, we celebrate these political leaders and encourage you to support their efforts by staying informed, engaging in your community, and making your voice heard. Visit HBCULeggings.com to show your support for HBCUs and register to vote. Your participation in the political process is crucial in shaping the future of our nation and continuing the legacy of these extraordinary women.