It’s Women’s History Month. For every woman, there is a story. A personal HERstory. Many of our stories are great. But they also include challenges. In the end, as a woman, we find a way to make it through to where we need to be. For the first in this series, let’s celebrate Shirley Chisholm. In honor of her achievements I want to interpret some of her greatest quotes as inspiration to us all, but especially my fellow women. Who is Shirley Chisholm you might ask? A small, but mighty woman who became the first Black women elected to U.S. Congress in 1968 of the only 57 we’ve had in total. She was also the first women ever to run for president of a major political party. So here’s HERstory in her own words.
“If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair.”
There will come a time when trying to make it to the top as a female, a line of men awaits. They may give trouble because they are not used to your presence. But the idea is to kill them with kindness all while using a drill to make an hole in the wall to place your picture next to there’s. If you show up, make sure you show out. Show who’s boss.
“The emotional, sexual, and psychological stereotyping of females begins when the doctor says: It’s a girl.”
There’s a reason why you find mostly blue clothes for boys and pink for girl babies as newborns. Our society separates us at birth by assigning our colors. They continue this throughout our life span as a way of control. In the past they would assign jobs such as women being the teachers, secretaries, and nurses. Men became the electricians, politicians, and cops. In 2024, we have turned the tables in terms of the careers we choose, but the stereotypes and discrimination continue to exist in most male dominated fields.
“Tremendous amounts of talent are lost to our society because that talent wears a skirt.”
Using Hip Hop as an example. DJ Kool Herc is considered the founder of the genre. What we now know is his sister was the planner of the back-to-school party he entertained. This genre of music became male dominated. Until recently, very few females were considered the top. You see this type of thing happen across so many fields where women help in creating something but are not given credit in the public. Imagine how many more children would have started reaching new heights earlier if they knew the women who were there.
“We must reject not only the stereotypes that others hold of us, but also the stereotypes that we hold of ourselves.”
I always loved the sound of the drums, but as a young girl I didn’t see women play the instrument. Not knowing Sheila E at the time, I never pursued lessons. I regret this decision now. Even though it’s never too late. Sometimes we are our own worse enemies. Sometimes we hold ourselves back just as much as society itself. Even if you are the first at something, push through by being authentically yourself.
“At present, our country needs women’s idealism and determination, perhaps more in politics than anywhere else.”
In my opinion, the world would be in a better position right now if there was 55% female politicians. Yes we are emotional. But one thing is for sure, a conversation will happen before making major decisions.
Shirley Chisholm passed away in 2005, but her influence continues to live on. To end, here’s a short video to hear her telling HER story.