4 Unsung Black Heroes You Need to Know About

It seems as though every year during Black History Month you hear about the same historic figures who changed our history. We all know the stories of Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, or Malcolm X. However, we want to talk about the historic black figures you may not hear of as often, but still made their mark on history.

MAJOR TAYLOR

The Black Cyclone — Marshall Walter "Major" Taylor was the first African-American world champion cyclist. The road wasn't easy for Major Taylor, for he had to constantly prove himself to be the world's fastest cyclist. His era was the peak of American cycling, and for that we honor his legacy.⁠

BESSIE SMITH

Bessie Smith, the Empress of the Blues, influenced a century of popular music. She was a bold, confident artist who inspired singers like Patti LaBelle and Aretha Franklin. Her life was cut too short, but her legacy will live on forever. Thank you, Bessie.⁠

MARSHA P. JOHNSON

Remembered as one of the core members of the Stonewall Riots in 1969, Marsha P. Johnson was a Black transgender icon who fought for LGBTQ+ rights. We are honored to share and celebrate the legacy of Marsha P. Johnson not only today, but everyday.

CLAUDETTE COLVIN

Everyone always talks about Rosa Parks, but why don't more speak of Claudette Colvin? At only 15 years old, Claudette refused to give up her seat on a crowded bus to a white women, nine months before Parks did. To think that Claudette has lived to see change arise, is both inspiring and heartbreaking.