Every February, schools, online journals and social media platforms compile a selective list of Black Americans to shine a light on. Unfortunately, not only are these lists usually extremely short—leaving out many notable Black Americans with remarkable contributions to America’s progression—such lists also often fail to address just how influential Black American figures still are in today’s civilization.
Of the many groundbreaking Black American scholars and world-changers, stood the late great Ida B. Wells. As an investigative journalist, leader and educator, Wells helped shape activism as the world knows it today. Hence, making her one of the many Black Americans you should know.
Read on for two essential reasons you should know Ida B. Wells.
1. the power of a voice and a pen
In this modern Digital Age, anyone can voice their concerns on social injustices just by picking up their phones and tweeting out a few Twitter threads. However, it wasn’t always that easy. Before social media activism took charge, Wells devoted her life to the studying of and writing on social injustices. While her revolutionary work jeopardized her livelihood, the power of her scholarly voice and determined pen gave life to activists and journalists to openly speak on issues plaguing society today.
2. A fight for Black Americans is a fight for all
Wells’ gained fame in the 1890s mostly due to her anti-lynching crusade—a fight against violent attacks on Black Americans. Yet, by openly standing for America’s most oppressed group of people, against America’s most notorious perpetuators of racism and white supremacy, Wells fundamentally fought for everyone. Through her years of advocacy in Civil Rights, Wells helped positively alter the way in which all oppressed people in America are treated within the justice system and political affairs.
Learning about Black American history is indeed important. It allows those who may lack a knowledge of such a rich history the opportunity to understand the contributions Black Americans have made to the advancements of the world around them. Still, while learning about Black American history is important, emphasizing the influence it still has on today’s society is also vital.