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Roberta Achtenberg (born July 20, 1950) is an American attorney and civil rights advocate who has made significant contributions to the field of civil rights in the United States. She is widely recognized for her work as a commissioner on the United States Commission on Civil Rights and as the first openly lesbian or gay public official in the country to have her appointment to a federal position confirmed by the United States Senate.
Ann Cody, born on May 14, 1963, is a notable figure in the field of Paralympic sports and international disability rights. Throughout her life, she has made significant contributions as an athlete, advocate, and government official, leaving a lasting impact on society. Cody’s journey has been marked by determination, achievements, and a relentless pursuit of equality and inclusion for people with disabilities.
Millie Bailey, born Vivian Mildred Corbett on February 3, 1918, in Washington, D.C., was an outstanding figure in American history… She will forever be remembered as a trailblazer, a champion for equality, and an inspiration to generations to come.
Karine Jean-Pierre is an influential American political advisor and the first black person and openly LGBT individual to serve as the White House press secretary. Born in 1974 in Fort-de-France, Martinique, France, she has made history with her groundbreaking achievements. With her impressive career in politics and media, Karine Jean-Pierre has become a prominent figure in American society.
Ana Brnabić, the first female and openly gay Prime Minister of Serbia, has made significant contributions to politics and LGBTQ+ rights. Her accomplishments include initiating crucial reforms in the Serbian government and being ranked as one of the most powerful women in the world by Forbes magazine. Brnabić’s attendance at the Belgrade Pride march and her commitment to inclusivity and equality have made her a symbol of progress in Serbia.
Maureen Colquhoun, Britain’s first openly lesbian Member of Parliament, broke barriers and paved the way for LGBTQ+ representation in British politics. Her activism for gender equality and social justice continues to inspire generations, reminding us of the significance of diverse representation and the ongoing fight for equal rights.
Tammy Baldwin, born and raised in Madison, Wisconsin, is an American politician and lawyer who made history as the first openly LGBT woman elected to the United States Senate. Throughout her career, she has been a strong advocate for progressive policies, including Medicare for All, LGBTQ+ rights, and gun control. Baldwin’s dedication and perseverance have made a lasting impact on American society.
Kathleen O’Day Wynne, born in 1953, made history as the first female premier of Ontario and the first openly gay premier in Canada. Throughout her political career, she broke barriers and advocated for a more inclusive and progressive Ontario. Wynne championed policies such as free prescription drug coverage for children and free post-secondary tuition for lower-income families. Despite facing controversies and challenges, her legacy as a trailblazing leader continues to inspire others.
Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir, born on October 4, 1942, in Reykjavík, Iceland, is a prominent Icelandic politician who served as the prime minister of Iceland from 2009 to 2013. She made significant contributions to social affairs and gender equality throughout her three-decade-long political career. As Iceland’s first female prime minister and the world’s first openly LGBT head of government, Jóhanna shattered barriers and became an inspiration for many.
Annelien Kappeyne van de Coppello, born on October 24, 1936, was a Dutch politician who dedicated her career to championing women’s rights and progressive causes. She made significant contributions to Dutch politics and was known for her advocacy for social justice issues. Her tireless work continues to inspire women and activists worldwide.
Ivana Catherine Bacik, born on May 25, 1968, is an Irish Labour Party politician who has made significant contributions to Irish politics and society. Bacik has been a prominent figure in both the Seanad and the Dáil, making her mark on various issues, particularly her advocacy for abortion rights. Her dedication to her work and her progressive values have established her as a key figure in the fight for women’s rights in Ireland.
Ionia Rollin Whipper, an American obstetrician and public health outreach worker, dedicated her life to improving the health and well-being of marginalized communities, especially African-American women and their children. Overcoming significant barriers as one of the few African-American women physicians of her generation, she made lasting impacts on society and paved the way for future generations of African-American women in medicine.
Condoleezza Rice, an American diplomat and political scientist, grew up during a time of racial segregation in the South but overcame challenges to excel academically. She held high-profile positions in the United States government, including serving as Secretary of State. Rice’s groundbreaking achievements have made a significant impact on women’s history.
Andrea Jenkins is the first Black openly transgender woman elected to public office in the United States. Serving on the Minneapolis City Council since 2018 and as council president since 2022, she is a prominent figure in local governance. Jenkins has had an eventful journey from her childhood in a low-income community to becoming a trailblazing political figure and advocate for transgender rights. Her accomplishments have made a lasting impact on society, particularly for Black transgender women.
Ngalula Sandrine Mubenga, a Congolese engineer and government official, is renowned for her significant contributions to renewable energy and her efforts in promoting electrification initiatives in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Her dedication to addressing energy access issues in her home country, as well as her accomplishments in research, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy, have made her a leading figure in the field. Her work in sustainable energy and commitment to empowering future generations through STEM education have solidified her as an inspiring figure in women’s history.
Yogita Bhayana is a prominent anti-rape activist in India, known for her tireless efforts to support rape survivors and seek justice for their assailants. She is the head of People Against Rape in India (PARI), an organization dedicated to providing assistance to rape survivors and advocating for their rights. Bhayana has also contributed significantly to the welfare of the homeless population in Delhi, having founded and managed 200 homeless shelters in the city.
Hungarian-born Rosika Schwimmer was a pacifist, feminist, and suffragist. Her radical vision of world peace led to the creation of several world federalist movements and organizations, with her efforts instrumental in the establishment of the International Criminal Court. Despite facing challenges and becoming stateless, Schwimmer remained steadfast in her pursuit of a more peaceful and equal world.
Baisali Mohanty, an international diplomat and United Nations official, is known for her contributions to foreign policy and strategic affairs. She is also an Indian classical dancer and the founder of the Oxford Odissi Centre, promoting and training dancers in the Odissi dance form. Mohanty’s achievements have earned her critical acclaim and appreciation.
Ángela Covadonga Bachiller, Spain’s first city councillor with Down syndrome, has overcome obstacles to become a prominent figure in her community. Bachiller’s determination, along with the support of her family, has laid the foundation for her success. She has made significant contributions as an administrative assistant and as a city councillor, becoming a symbol of empowerment for individuals with disabilities. Bachiller’s journey serves as an inspiration and a reminder of the importance of inclusion and equal opportunities for all.
Abigail Adams was an advisor, and spouse, of John Adams, as well as the mother of John Quincy Adams. She played a vital role in the founding of the United States and was the first second lady and second first lady of the United States. Adams’s life is well-documented through the letters she wrote to her husband during the Continental Congresses, offering insight into the American Revolutionary War. She was a champion for women’s rights and her advocacy continues to inspire to this day.
Gertrude Bell, a remarkable English writer, traveler, political officer, administrator, and archaeologist, left an indelible impact on the Middle East. She explored and extensively mapped various regions in the Middle East, became influential to British imperial policy-making, and played a pivotal role in shaping the Middle East’s future, advocating for the establishment of independent Arab states. Her legacy as an influential figure in the region continues to inspire scholars and policymakers to this day.
Maria Grazia Giammarinaro is an Italian judge and policy-maker who has made significant contributions to the field of gender-based violence and human trafficking. She has played a key role in shaping legislation and policies to protect the rights of women and victims of trafficking. With a strong educational background and experience in both the judiciary and government, her work has had a significant impact on society.
Katherine Chon, a South Korean immigrant, has become a prominent figure in the fight against human trafficking. Co-founding the Polaris Project in 2002, Chon has made significant strides in raising awareness about human trafficking and providing crucial services to survivors. Her dedication to the cause has earned her numerous awards and recognition, solidifying her status as a trailblazer and advocate for change. Chon continues her work today at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, leaving an indelible mark on society and women’s history.