Entertainment

Allen (1950) is an actress, choreographer, director, producer, and founder of a performing arts academy. The TV series "Fame" (1982-1987) marked her entertainment breakthrough when she both played dance teacher Lydia Grant and choreographed the series. She also received three Golden Globe nominations and one win for Best Actress for her role in 'Fame.' She also earned multiple Emmy Award nominations, winning five, and making history as the first Black woman to receive the Emmys' prestigious Governors Award for significant contributions to television.

Cinematographer, Director, Writer

Robinson (1936-2011) was a Singer, Songwriter, Record Producer, the Mother of Hip Hop, and a founder and the CEO of Sugar Hill Records.

“There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.” - I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings. Maya Angelou was born Marguerite Annie Johnson in St. Louis, Missouri on April 4, 1928. She and her older brother, Bailey Jr, who nicknamed her Maya, were born to Bailey Johnson, a doorman and navy dietitian, and Vivian (Baxter) Johnson, a nurse and card dealer. She was a poet, author, civil rights activist, and director.

It is widely accepted that Mary Dee (1912-1964) was the first Black woman Disc Jockey. She was also one of the first black women admitted to the Association of American Women in Radio and Television.

Cartoonist whose strips and panels infused fashion and refinement with social and political elements.

Multifaceted - Performa, Opera

Filmmaker

Actress, comedian, author, singer, and host, Goldberg (1955) was the first Black woman to earn EGOT status (2002)—winning an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony award.