By Ayana Bryant Weekes
Black History is America's best kept secret. In order to change that, here are some Black History Facts you may or may not be familiar with!
In 2019 history was made in the pageant world. When Toni-Ann Singh from St. Thomas, Jamaica was crowned Miss World 2019 in London she became the fifth black woman to hold a top pageant queen title. Her accomplishment marked the first time in pageant world history that all five major titles — Miss America, Miss USA, Miss Teen USA, Miss Universe, and Miss World — have been held by black women. Zozibini Tunzi was crowned Miss Universe, joining Miss America Nia Franklin, Miss USA Cheslie Kryst, and Miss Teen USA Kaliegh Garris.
Cree Summer Francks is an American-Canadian actress, voice actress, comedian, and singer. Summer is mostly known for her role as the quirky, fun-loving character “Freddie” on the long running, classic sitcom, A Different World. When the show ended, Summer quickly capitalized on her unique voice to launch a successful career voicing hundreds of our childhood's most iconic animated characters. Between 1983 and 2006 Summer voiced over 101 animated characters that spanned across video games, cartoon television series, animated films and commercials.
At 16 years old Yvette Stephens joined the Chicago chapter of the Black Panther Party. She was responsible for selling the Black Panther newspaper. She also helped start the free breakfast program for children. We know her today as powerhouse performer and musical legend, #ChakaKhan.
For more content for the ambitious woman subscribe now!