NOBEL Women reverently upholds the legacy of Black women who have courageously paved the way across industries and expertise for current and future generations. We vigorously believe that Black women’s voices matter in government simply because Black women matter. Therefore, everywhere that decisions are being made should include the wisdom, expertise, and compensation of Black women. After all, we have collectively served as a guiding light in times of calm and calamity. 

A Call for Action

American educator, philanthropist, and civil rights activist Mary McLeod Bethune was quoted in 1894 saying, “If we have the courage and tenacity of our forebears, who stood firmly like a rock against the lash of slavery, we shall find a way to do for our day what they did for theirs.” This clarion call recognizes the necessity of individual contributions towards the greater good. It is innately what Black women have always done. Ultimately, the greater good of humanity impacts every aspect of Black women’s nuanced lives. 

Since the beginning of recorded and oratorical history, the impact and influence of Black women has provided the rushing undercurrent for notable progress in times of calm and calamity. Our relentless efforts have demanded reform in healthcare, education, policies, and the environment. We’ve stood on the front lines to amplify pay equity, maternal mortality, safe jobs, and public transportation and infrastructure. The determination passed down through our DNA has fueled our vision to affect change in systems that never intended to recognize our humanity, and certainly not our agency. 

We Can. We Will.

NOBEL Women encourages Black women to continue to find ways to authentically “find a way” as Sister Bethune admonished. Whether by running for political office, serving on a national board, committing to a local commission, leading an advocacy group, or organizing voters and volunteers — there’s space for all of us to contribute. Black women are fully capable of successfully leading and supporting the highest positions in government, non-profit organizations, corporations, and all points in between.