1924 – 2005
Shirley Chisholm
The first Black woman ever elected to the U.S. Congress.
The Story
Shirley grew up loving books and speaking up in class.
She became a teacher and then decided to try something no Black woman had done — run for Congress.
She won! And then she ran for president too, to show that everyone belongs.
She said she wasn't afraid to be 'unbought and unbossed.'
She opened the door so many others could follow.
Learn More
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