Black women have long been at the forefront of progress, innovation, and social change. Whether in politics, business, education, entertainment, or advocacy, these women continue to break barriers, redefine leadership, and uplift their communities.
From the White House to Wall Street, from the classroom to the Super Bowl, here are the Black women making history right now.
Political Powerhouses: Black Women Leading the Nation
Kamala Harris: A Historic Vice Presidency
Kamala Harris made history as the first woman, first Black person, and first South Asian to serve as Vice President of the United States.
During her tenure, she played pivotal roles in voting rights, economic policy, and reproductive justice. She also became the highest-ranking woman in U.S. history, forever reshaping the landscape of political leadership.
Winsome Earle-Sears: Marine, Politician, Business Leader
As Virginia’s Lieutenant Governor, Winsome Earle-Sears is the first Black woman elected to statewide office in Virginia. A former Marine and business leader, she is a strong advocate for education reform, veterans’ rights, and economic growth.
In 2024, she announced her bid for governor, aiming to become Virginia’s first Black female governor—and the first Black woman to govern any U.S. state.
Summer Lee: Progressive Leadership in Pennsylvania
Hailing from North Braddock, Pennsylvania, Summer Lee became the first Black woman elected to represent Pennsylvania in Congress.
Her platform focuses on workers’ rights, environmental justice, and racial equity. Lee’s grassroots organizing background has revolutionized Pennsylvania politics, making her one of the most influential progressive voices in Congress.
Jasmine Crockett: A Trailblazer in Congress
Rep. Jasmine Crockett is one of the rising stars in national politics. A former public defender, she is leading efforts in voting rights, criminal justice reform, and environmental equity.
She emphasizes the importance of civic engagement, empowering disenfranchised communities to reclaim their political power.
Harriet Holman: Military Leadership Meets Public Service
A retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel, Harriet Holman now serves in the South Carolina House of Representatives. She champions public safety, economic growth, and veterans’ rights, using her military background to shape policy that uplifts communities.
Driving Social Change: Black Women in Advocacy & Business
Michelle Obama: A Legacy of Leadership, Empowerment, and Advocacy
Michelle Obama inspires future generations by championing education, health, and gender equality, launching initiatives like Let Girls Learn to support girls’ education worldwide. Through her Becoming Foundation, she mentors young leaders and encourages civic engagement, helping individuals find their voices and create meaningful change. As a global advocate for health and wellness, she revolutionized school nutrition programs with Let’s Move!
Tamika D. Mallory: A Voice for Justice
As co-founder of Until Freedom, Tamika D. Mallory remains one of the most powerful voices in social justice activism.
Her 2025 book, I Lived to Tell the Story, chronicles her journey in the fight for equity, justice, and police reform.
La June Montgomery Tabron: Building a More Equitable America
As the CEO of the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, La June Montgomery Tabron leads efforts in racial equity, education, and economic empowerment.
She is pushing for long-term investment in Black communities, ensuring a future where racial barriers are dismantled.
Brenda Thiam: Advancing Education & Special Needs Advocacy
Dr. Brenda Thiam made history as the first Black Republican woman elected to Maryland’s House of Delegates.
A former special education teacher and nonprofit leader, she advocates for students with disabilities, funding for education, and workforce training.
Entertainment & Sports: Breaking Barriers & Making History
Beyoncé: A Music & Cultural Icon
At the 2025 Grammy Awards, Beyoncé became the first Black woman this century to win Album of the Year & Best Country Album.
She continues to use her music as activism, pushing for greater representation in entertainment.
Oprah Winfrey: A Legacy of Influence
Oprah Winfrey continues to shape media, philanthropy, and education.
In 2025, she starred in The Color Purple while expanding her global education initiatives.
Autumn Lockwood: A First in the NFL
In 2025, Autumn Lockwood became the first Black woman to coach an NFL team to a Super Bowl victory with the Philadelphia Eagles.
Black Women Facilitating Change in Pittsburgh
Black women in Pittsburgh are driving change across business, arts, wellness, politics, and social activism, creating impactful opportunities and strengthening communities. Here is a short list of the MANY Black Women helping to transform Pittsburgh for the better:
Business & Community Leadership
- Dr. Diamonte Walker: Championing Economic Growth– As the CEO of Pittsburgh Scholar House, Dr. Diamonte Walker empowers single-parent families through education and leadership development. She is also the founder of Sisters Lifting as We Climb, a network of Black women dedicated to mentoring and career advancement.
- Rae Coleman – A certified event planner and floral specialist, Rae owns Enhanced Creativity, a business that organizes cultural events across Pittsburgh. She has planned Yoruba weddings, Jewish ceremonies, and Asian celebrations while uplifting minority-owned businesses and partnering with nonprofits.
- Becca Finley – A military leader and community builder, Becca is an advocate for empowerment and leadership, particularly for women of color in male-dominated industries.
- Theresa Poindexter – A nurse, entrepreneur, and nonprofit founder, Theresa overcame homelessness and adversity to create businesses focused on healthcare, natural wellness, and financial empowerment for young mothers and trauma survivors.
- Rahnijah Still – At just 14 years old, Rahnijah is a teen entrepreneur and jewelry designer. She started her business out of necessity but has built a growing brand while inspiring other young creatives.
Social Justice & Wellness Advocacy
- Dr. Alexus Brown – A Senior Social Scientist and interdisciplinary sociolinguist, Dr. Brown specializes in Black language, rhythm, and sociocultural patterns, particularly in Rap music lyrics. Earning her Ph.D. in Linguistics from the University of Pittsburgh in 2024, she now works with the Center on Race and Social Problems (CRSP) to advance racial equity and social justice through research and education. Stay tuned for the March Issue of SITI Girl Pittsburgh to learn more about Dr. Brown!
- Aijalon (Social Butterfly Experience) – A wellness entrepreneur, Aijalon promotes mental health awareness and life coaching, specifically for people of color navigating stress and generational trauma.
- Rachel Equity – An artist and activist, Rachel’s work explores Black identity, racial equity, and sustainability. She collaborates with the University of Pittsburgh’s Racial Equity Consciousness Institute and will have her work displayed at the August Wilson Center in 2025.
- Dionna Ortega – A Zumba instructor with over 16 years of experience, Dionna has helped hundreds of women find joy and fitness through dance, promoting holistic health and well-being.
Black Women’s Policy Center: Empowering Pittsburgh
The Black Women’s Policy Center amplifies the voices of Black women in policy-making, education, and economic mobility.
Their “Listen to Black Women” podcast and advocacy boot camps have equipped countless women with the tools to drive systemic change.
A Future Defined by Black Women
These trailblazing Black women—from Congress to corporations, classrooms to stadiums—are redefining leadership. They are the change-makers, the pioneers, the unstoppable force shaping our future.
The next chapter of history is being written by them—right now.
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