Strong Women, Deep Roots: Women’s History Month honors trailblazers, pioneers and changemakers

By Stephy Nobles-Beans The Black Lens

I always am honored to celebrate women, and March is considered National Women’s History Month which includes celebrating the achievements of women of all backgrounds, including African American women.

March is a time to celebrate the incredible contributions of women – past, present, and future. From trailblazers who shattered glass ceilings to the everyday heroes who shape communities with love, wisdom, and courage, women continue to inspire change, uplift societies, and redefine possibilities.

This month, and every month, we honor your achievements, recognize your struggles, and celebrate your limitless potential. Keep shining, keep rising, and keep making history.

This is a time I would like to remember several voices, victories, and visionary leadership of Black women throughout history. It is a call to celebrate resilience, brilliance, and the undeniable impact of Black women in shaping our world.

A Legacy of Power and Progress from the front lines of civil rights battles to the stars above, Black women have fearlessly led movements, shattered barriers, and redefined possibility. Through articles, discussions, and dynamic events, we can reflect on their courage and contributions, ensuring their stories are told, honored, and carried forward.

There are many pioneering women who have made significant contributions. Here, we recognize several great individuals:

Constance Baker Motley – A formidable legal force, she shattered barriers as the first Black woman to argue before the U.S. Supreme Court, championing justice in pivotal civil rights cases.

Mae Carol Jemison – A trailblazing astronaut, she made history as the first Black woman in space, proving that boundaries exist only to be broken.

Bessie Coleman – Defying racial and gender barriers, she soared as the first Black female pilot, paving the way for future generations of aviators.

Barbara Jordan – A groundbreaking political leader, she became the first Black woman in the Texas State Senate, amplifying voices that had long been unheard.

Vice President Kamala Harris – A symbol of progress and possibility, she carved a path in history as the first woman and first Black woman to serve as Vice President of the United States.

Shades of Motherhood would like to honor a special Woman of Color who is doing amazing things in our community, a trailblazer and is in partnership with Shades of Motherhood.

She is none other than Nurse Practitioner, Ebony Graham, NP of Complete Care.

Raised in Florida, she always dreamed of becoming a nurse and felt called to this vocation. She became a Certified Nursing Assistant and pursued her LPN. Her life changed after a mission trip to Guatemala and Haiti, and she realized that God wanted to take her further.

Graham graduated in 2014 and earned a master’s in education, taught LPNs and CNAs while pursuing her RN part time at night. In 2017, she graduated from Harding University as a Nurse Practitioner. In 2025 she started her own practice with Dr. Navarro here in Spokane, WA, a dream come true. The goal of her practice is to help as many as they can, celebrating and helping others with a comprehensive approach. We are so honored to collaborate with such an amazing practice and with Nurse Practitioner Ebony Graham.

Here at Shades of Motherhood we take the time to honor incredible women, let us commit to uplifting, recognizing, and supporting the Black women leading today – and those who will inspire the future.

To the Black women who have shaped history, led movements, broken barriers, and uplifted communities–your brilliance, resilience, and power inspire generations. From science to art, activism to leadership, innovation to storytelling, you continue to redefine what is possible.

You are the dream and the hope of the past, the power of the present, and the foundation of the future. Your strength is unmatched, your voices are needed, and your presence is undeniable.

May you always know your worth, walk in your truth, and shine in your greatness. The world is better because of you. Know that Shades of Motherhood Network is here, and we are better because of you. If you are looking for resources, please contact us through our website: theshadesofmotherhoodnetwork.org.

Because when Black women rise, we all rise.

Happy Women’s History Month!