Sally McMullin
sallymcmullen | The Messenger
In March of 2023, Sally McMullen embarked on a remarkable journey on Instagram, launching her "Black Women We Should All Know About" series to honor and celebrate Women's History Month. Through this series, Sally set out to shed light on the incredible stories of Black women whose remarkable contributions have often been overshadowed or overlooked in mainstream American history.
One of the first remarkable women Sally highlighted was Marian Wright Edelman, a trailblazer who made history by becoming the first Black woman to pass the Mississippi Bar in 1964. This achievement was especially significant because at that time, Mississippi had only three Black lawyers. Edelman's pioneering spirit and determination broke down barriers and paved the way for future generations of Black lawyers.
Throughout the entire month, Sally dedicated herself to sharing daily stories of these extraordinary women. Among them was Mary Kenner, a brilliant inventor who held an impressive five patents, one of which was for the sanitation belt. Her groundbreaking inventions have had a lasting impact on our society, particularly in the realm of women's health and hygiene.
Another remarkable woman featured in Sally's series was Gladys Mae West, whose contributions were instrumental in the development of the Global Positioning System (GPS). Her innovative work has transformed how we navigate the world, showcasing the vital role that Black women have played in advancing technology.
Sally's dedication to unearthing hidden histories didn't stop at inventors and lawyers. She continued to curate captivating stories of Black scientists, leaders, athletes, and countless others who have left an indelible mark on our society. One such inspiring story was that of Trude Lamb, a courageous 16-year-old who successfully persuaded her high school board to rename their institution from the divisive name of Robert E. Lee to the more inclusive Tyler Legacy High School. Trude's activism and determination serve as a testament to the power of youth voices in advocating for positive change.
As the year progressed, Sally's commitment to sharing these vital stories continued unabated. In September, she shifted her focus to Black farmers and the significant strides they made in organizing and training. The contributions of these farmers are often overlooked, but they have played an essential role in shaping agricultural practices and communities across the country.
Sally's "Black Women We Should All Know About" series serves as a powerful reminder of the countless Black women who have made significant contributions to American history, despite facing immense obstacles and systemic barriers. By amplifying their voices and highlighting their achievements, Sally McMullen has made a profound impact, not only during Women's History Month but throughout the year. Her work encourages us all to recognize and celebrate the unsung heroes who have shaped our nation's history, leaving an enduring legacy for generations to come.
