This year’s theme for Black History Month 2023 resonates with significance: Saluting Our Sisters.
The platform is given to the remarkable contributions and enduring legacies of Black women who have shaped history, culture, and society in profound ways. From grassroots up, this community has proven to be a powerful force for the good across civil rights, social justice, the arts, and sciences – just to name a few areas of impact among many. With roles worth recognition and understanding throughout history, space is being given to explore the reach of Black women around the world.
J50HXN // Civil Rights Memorial Center, Montgomery, Alabama. // Jeffrey Isaac Greenberg
Unseen History
How many Black women from history are you able to name? ‘Hidden Figures’ is no exaggeration. Often left as the unsung heroes of social and political movements, they have stood at the forefront of battles for civil rights and equality, even when their contributions went unrecognised. Women like Sojourner Truth, who delivered her iconic “Ain’t I a Woman?” speech at the 1851 Women’s Rights Convention, or Ella Baker, a key pioneer in the civil rights movement, have been instrumental in shaping the course of history as it is known and taught today. While there is some progress across the curriculum, inclusion, and revisionist efforts are key to giving these narratives the emphasis that they deserve.
E6DXA3 // Sojourner Truth, African-American Abolitionist and Women's Rights Activist, Illustration from the Film, "The Emerging Woman". // Glasshouse Images
Arts & Culture
Across the world of arts and culture, Black women artists, musicians, writers, and performers have enriched our lives and challenged our perspectives. Consider Nina Simone, whose haunting voice became a powerful anthem for civil rights, or Maya Angelou, whose poetry and prose continue to inspire generations – along with others past, present, and future who make enduring contributions to our cultural tapestry.
HYBJ19 // Mural on side of house with Maya Angelou quote, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. // Michael Wheatley
Empowerment through Change
Part of this year’s Black History mission is to punctuate the role of women as pioneers of change in the political landscape. Individuals like Shirley Chisholm, who was the first Black woman elected to Congress and later ran for the presidency, or Kamala Harris, who became the first female Vice President of the United States, have worked to open doors that are notoriously firmly shut.
2HBTWJ8 // 2HBTWJ8 Founding members of the Congressional Black Caucus. // PBH Images
Science & Innovation
The significant strides made in the fields of science, technology, and innovation by Black women is an empowering chapter in the story of STEM. Now, more than ever, barriers need to be broken and the boundaries of human knowledge expanded. Where representation and being seen matters, for girls to know about Dr. Mae Jemison, the first Black woman in space, and Dr. Shirley Ann Jackson, a pioneering physicist, is key to this sense of empowerment by example.
E914F6 // Astronaut Mae Jemison. // NC Collections
Championing Social Justice
“Saluting Our Sisters” is by no means the finish line – it’s also a reminder of the ongoing struggle for social justice. Black women continue to lead movements for racial equity, police reform, and gender equality. Activists like Tarana Burke, the founder of the #MeToo movement, and Patrisse Cullors, a co-founder of the Black Lives Matter movement, are tireless advocates for change. The call is for others to join them where progress matters. The #WEMATTER campaign, for example, emphasises the significance of acknowledging the contributions of Black women and ensuring that their voices are heard and respected. This brings us to the following key aims:
- To dismantle stereotypes.
- To eradicate systemic biases.
- To foster an environment where Black women can thrive without constraints.
KFC177 // Actress Rose Mcgowan (right) hugs Tarana Burke, Founder of the hashtag #Metoo, after speaking at the Women;s Convention opening session at the Cobo Center, Detroit, Michigan. // Theresa Scarbrough
The Importance of Intersectionality
It is crucial to recognise that the experiences of Black women are inevitably shaped by the intersection of race and gender. The theme being examined this year highlights the need for an intersectional approach to understanding and addressing the unique challenges and contributions of Black women. Commitment is required to amplify voices, support causes, and work towards a more equitable and inclusive world for all.
2N1RGTB // melita
What can we learn?
“Saluting Our Sisters” aims to capture the indomitable spirit and unwavering determination of Black women. As we celebrate the matriarchs of movements, there are lessons around the continuing struggle for equality and justice. By elevating and supporting Black women across all sectors and communities, we stand behind further shifts in the narrative.
At Alamy, we are part of the conversation. In honour of Black History Month in October, we want to introduce our enduring campaign, ‘Celebrating Black History All Year Round’. This initiative represents a commitment that extends beyond a single month. While we’ve handpicked 100 incredible women for our ‘Saluting Our Sisters’ Lightbox, we recognise the countless more who deserve their place in the spotlight. Representing diverse backgrounds, talents, and accomplishments, the hope is that, like us, you will be inspired by the stories of these remarkable women as a starting point. The common thread? Unwavering determination.
For authenticity and accountability when running a Black History campaign, read this.
More Black History from Alamy
Cultural Legacies: African Kingdoms and Empires
Historic Black Communities Around the World: Liberia, Brixton and Salvador
Key Moments in the History of Black Film and Television You Should Know About
Authenticity and Accountability: Black History Campaigns
Bob Marley: One Love – A Musical Icon’s Legacy
