By Ashlee Banks
Special to the AFRO
Both the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate passed legislation to honor Shirley Chisholm, who made history as the first Black woman elected to Congress. This recognition celebrates her groundbreaking contributions to American politics and her enduring legacy as an advocate for social justice and equality throughout her distinguished career.
(Credit: AP Photo/ James Palmer)
On Dec. 5, members of the House unanimously passed “The Shirley Chisholm Congressional Gold Medal Act” which will posthumously award Chisholm with the award. Since 1776, Congress has awarded gold medals as the highest form of national recognition for exceptional achievements and contributions.
U.S. Rep. Glenn Ivey (D-Md.-4) told the AFRO that Chisholm was an “iconic figure.”
“I remember her back from the day. First, when she ran for president, that’s when she first popped up on my radar. We were still living in South Carolina but she was such a major figure,” said Ivey. “She blazed a great trail. We’re following it today.”
U.S. Rep. Gregory Meeks (D-N.Y.-5) told the AFRO “Chisholm is a historic figure” who deserves this honor.
“She is the first Black woman to be elected to Congress and first Black woman to run for president who stood out and stood up,” said Meeks. “So, I think it is historical. She’s a monumental figure who earned the right to have the Congressional Gold Medal.”
Shirley Chisholm was a trailblazing figure in American politics, renowned for her groundbreaking achievements that paved the way for future generations. Born on Nov. 30, 1924, in Brooklyn, New York, she became the first Black woman elected to the United States Congress in 1969, representing New York’s 12th Congressional District. Chisholm was not only a pioneer in her role but also a passionate advocate for social justice, education and healthcare reform. Throughout her time in Congress, she championed issues such as child welfare, education and civil rights, tirelessly fighting for the marginalized and voicing the concerns of her constituents.
In 1972, she made history again by becoming the first Black woman to run for the presidency as a major party candidate, challenging the political status quo and inspiring many with her campaign slogan, “Unbought and Unbossed.”
Chisholm’s legacy extends beyond her political achievements; she exemplified resilience and determination in the face of adversity. She remains an enduring symbol of empowerment, reminding Americans of the importance of representation and the ongoing struggle for equality.
On Dec. 3, Congresswoman Shontel Brown (D-Ohio-11) took to the house floor during a Congressional Black Caucus Special Order Hour to celebrate Chisholm’s legacy, which coincided with the 100th anniversary of Chisholm’s birth.
In her impassioned remarks, Congresswoman Brown expressed her pride in Chisholm’s historical significance, stating, “On January 3, 1969, she was the first Black woman to walk into this Chamber as a member of Congress.”
She emphasized the importance of Chisholm’s presence in a legislative body that had, until that point, excluded Black women and many other marginalized groups.
Brown recalled that on the same day Chisholm was sworn in, her predecessor, Louis Stokes, became the first Black member of Congress from Ohio, marking a pivotal moment in the state’s history.
“That is why I have so much pride when I look at my colleagues. Because we are here now. And it started with Shirley Chisholm…who served, legislated and lived like she was making up for lost time,” she declared.
The legislation now awaits President Joe Biden’s signature before it can be enacted into law.
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