Shirley Chisholm

Shirley Chisholm (1924–2005) was a fearless educator, author, and trailblazing politician who made history as the first Black woman elected to the United States Congress in 1968, representing New York’s 12th Congressional District. But she didn’t stop there. In 1972, she became the first Black woman to run for President of the United States under a major political party, boldly declaring she was “unbought and unbossed.”

Chisholm’s career was defined by her fierce advocacy for marginalized communities—fighting for education, civil rights, gender equality, and economic justice. As a Congresswoman, she co-founded the Congressional Black Caucus and championed policies that uplifted women, children, and working-class families.

Her legacy is one of radical courage and visionary leadership. Shirley Chisholm didn’t just open doors—she kicked them down, making space for generations of changemakers to come.