Edmonia “Wildfire” Lewis is considered the first professional BIPOC sculptor in the United States and the first to achieve international acclaim.

Beverly Cleary created some of the most beloved children’s book characters of the 20th century. 

Octavia Butler was a pioneering writer of science fiction. As one of the first African American and female science fiction writers, Butler wrote novels that concerned themes of injustice towards African Americans, global warming, and women's rights.

Cecily Tyson dedicated her career to portraying resilient African American women on the stage and the screen.