A Note from the Author and Illustrator

Dear Reader,

What does it take to be first? Talent. Skill. Brilliance. But it also takes courage and the tenacity to commit yourself to a goal and refuse to be turned away. That ability and determination is never more on display than in the lives of African American women. For too long the accomplishments of women, and in particular minority women, have been overlooked, minimized by those writing history books. We say no more.

When presented with the opportunity to collaborate with the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Erin and I knew we couldn’t say no. The museum strives to showcase African American stories and illuminate the ways Black culture has shaped American identity. We wanted to contribute to the vision of the museum by highlighting stories of Black women who have made major contributions in the fields of science, medicine, human services, art, music, education, politics, communication, entertainment, and sports.

In the pages of Brave. Black. First., you will read about the lives and accomplishments of more than fifty remarkable African American women whose unique skills and contributions paved the way for the next generation of young people. With our words and our art, we have tried to honor these change makers and capture their spirit of empowerment—and the spirit of all who dare to challenge the norm, explore new territories, break new ground, and confidently go where few have traveled before, thus firmly leaving their mark on our history.