Shirley Chisholm, the first Black congresswoman, was posthumously awarded Congress’s highest honor through bipartisan legislation. Last week, President Joe Biden signed the Shirley Chisholm Congressional Gold Medal Act into law, a landmark recognition of her groundbreaking achievements. Vice President Kamala Harris signed the measure days earlier, joined by sponsors Sen. Laphonza Butler and Rep. Barbara Lee, who described Chisholm as a personal mentor. “I see no one more deserving than Shirley Chisholm,” Lee remarked, emphasizing her importance to future leaders.
Chisholm’s legacy is defined by her resilience and advocacy. Born in Brooklyn in 1924 to Caribbean immigrant parents, she excelled in education before entering politics. After becoming New York State Assembly’s second Black legislator, Chisholm won a congressional seat in 1968. Known as “Fighting Shirley” with the slogan “Unbought and Unbossed,” she championed civil rights, gender equality, and the marginalized. Over seven terms, she introduced 50 pieces of legislation, addressing immigration, child support, and food programs. She famously partnered with Republican Sen. Bob Dole to create WIC, a vital nutrition program.
Chisholm also made history in 1972 as the first Black woman to run for president under a major political party. Despite facing threats and barriers, her campaign blazed trails for future generations. “Her patriotism, leadership, and commitment to our nation demand recognition,” said Butler, acknowledging her profound impact.
The Congressional Gold Medal will feature Chisholm’s likeness and inscriptions, overseen by the U.S. Treasury and displayed at the Smithsonian Institution.
In her later years, Chisholm retired to Florida, declining an ambassadorial role due to health issues before her death in 2005. Honoring her bipartisan efforts, Rep. Lee recalled Chisholm’s dedication: “Barbara, where are the Republicans?” she once asked during a tribute vote. This year, marking Chisholm’s 100th birthday, her gold medal legislation earned broad support, reflecting her unifying legacy.
“We have a lot of work to do,” said Rep. Sheila Cherfilus McCormick. “What she started has to be finished.”
Link: NBCNews
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