Honoring Black Women Leaders in Education

3/29/24 – As March concludes, we commemorate and embrace Women’s Month and pay homage to the remarkable contributions of women, particularly Black women, to American society. This month provides a poignant reminder of the invaluable role that women, throughout history, have played in shaping our world, especially in education. 

We know the contribution of women is endless. This month, we take a moment to spotlight the extraordinary contributions of four exceptional Black women leaders in education whose unwavering dedication and visionary leadership have left an indelible mark on our nation’s educational landscape:

1. Marian Wright Edelman – Renowned for her advocacy work in children’s rights and education, Marian Wright Edelman is the founder and president emerita of the Children’s Defense Fund (CDF). Her tireless efforts have focused on ensuring every child has access to quality education and opportunities to thrive. Through initiatives like the Freedom Schools program, she has empowered countless young minds and inspired a generation of educators and activists.
   
   
2. Dr. Gloria Ladson-Billings – A distinguished educator and scholar, Dr. Ladson-Billings has revolutionized the field of culturally relevant pedagogy. Her groundbreaking research emphasizes the importance of incorporating students’ cultural backgrounds and experiences into the classroom, fostering a more inclusive and engaging learning environment. Dr. Ladson-Billings’ work continues to shape educational practices and policies, paving the way for greater equity and social justice in schools.
   
   
3. Dr. Ruth Simmons – A trailblazer in higher education, Dr. Simmons made history as the first African American president of an Ivy League institution when she assumed leadership at Brown University. Throughout her career, Dr. Simmons has been a staunch advocate for access to higher education, particularly for underrepresented minority students. Her visionary leadership has transformed institutions and inspired a new generation of scholars and leaders.
   
   
4. LaShawn Route Chatmon – As Executive Director of the National Equity Project and a visionary leader in education equity, LaShawn Route Chatmon has dedicated her career to advocating for transformative change in education. Her unwavering commitment to uplifting marginalized communities and amplifying the voices of those often unheard has been instrumental in driving forward our mission. Through her leadership, she has inspired countless educators and leaders to join the fight for educational justice and equity.

As we honor these remarkable women, it is essential to recognize the profound impact of women’s discernment and leadership throughout history. In many African societies, including among the Ashanti people of Ghana, women historically held significant roles in governance and leadership. Among their responsibilities was the selection of kings, demonstrating the inherent wisdom and discernment possessed by women in shaping the destinies of their communities.

As we honor the legacy of Black women in education and leadership in shaping our world, let us recommit ourselves to advancing equity and justice in education for all.

In Service and Gratitude,
Chris Chatmon
CEO, Kingmakers of Oakland