American author, poet, and activist whose most famous work, “The Color Purple,” published in 1982, is a seminal novel in American literature, known for its powerful portrayal of African American women’s lives in the early 20th century South.
Afro-Brazilian activist and labor organizer.
Harlem Renaissance artist and educator
American lesbian activist and dancer during the Harlem Renaissance who played a vital role in Black and LGBTQ+ organizations, most notably the Lesbian Herstory Archives.
Pioneering physician in the Philadelphia African-American community and one of the first Black women to become a physician in the United States.
Renowned author known for her tales of affluent African-American families in the South.
American folk artist and quilter.
American blues singer, pianist, and entertainer during the Harlem Renaissance.
Celebrated Cuban-American singer known for her enchanting performances in Cuban music and Latin jazz.
Celebrated African-American soprano, concert singer, and founder of the Harlem School of the Arts.