The Power of Knowing Our History: Why Black Girls Must See Themselves in Women’s History

Before they were history-makers, they were young Black girls with big dreams.

Every March, we celebrate Women’s History Month, a time to honor the brilliance, strength, and achievements of women who have shaped the world. But for young Black girls, this month carries an even deeper significance.

History is more than a collection of stories from the past—it’s a reflection of who we are and what we can become. When Black girls see themselves in history, it empowers them to dream, lead, and create their own legacies.

Why Women’s History Month Matters for Black Girls

Representation Builds Confidence and Purpose

Representation matters. Imagine a little Black girl who loves science but has never heard of Dr. Mae Jemison, the first Black woman to travel to space. Or a young girl who dreams of becoming an entrepreneur but doesn’t know that Madam C.J. Walker built a beauty empire and became the first female self-made millionaire in America.

Without these stories, Black girls may feel invisible in history, unaware of the powerful women who paved the way for them. Learning about these trailblazers shows them that greatness is already in their DNA—that leadership, creativity, and success are part of their legacy.

Encouraging Representation: Create a “She Inspires Me” wall in your home or classroom featuring Black women in history. Let young girls see themselves reflected in these powerful figures.

Understanding the Challenges and Triumphs of Black Women

Women’s History Month provides an opportunity for Black girls to learn about the unique experiences of Black women—their struggles, victories, and the paths they created for future generations.

  • Mary McLeod Bethune started a school for Black girls with just $1.50 and baked sweet potato pies to raise money for education. She later founded the National Council of Negro Women to uplift and empower Black women.
  • Angela Davis fearlessly spoke out against injustice, using her voice to fight for civil rights and inspire a new generation of activists.
  • Katherine Johnson used her brilliance in mathematics to help NASA put the first Americans into space, despite working in a segregated environment.

Their stories remind us that resilience and determination can break barriers.

Discussion Question: If you could sit down and have a conversation with any Black woman from history, who would it be and why?

Cultural Pride and Identity: Knowing Where You Come From

Black girls deserve to feel pride in their heritage and confidence in their identities. Learning about the achievements of Black women in literature, science, politics, activism, and the arts helps them develop a stronger connection to their roots.

This knowledge gives them the courage to embrace their uniqueness, celebrate their culture, and stand tall in spaces where they may not always feel seen.

Take Action: Visit museums, read books, and watch films that highlight Black women’s stories. Some great resources include:

  • Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History by Vashti Harrison
  • She Was the First! by Katheryn Russell-Brown
  • Hidden Figures (film about Black women at NASA)

History Inspires Future Leaders

When Black girls learn about the powerful women who came before them, they realize they have the power to make history too.

The next generation of history-makers is already here. They are the young girls leading in their schools, starting businesses, standing up for what’s right, and creating change in their communities.

  • Set big goals and take action toward them.
  • Speak up for themselves and others.
  • Find mentors who inspire and guide them.
  • Keep learning, growing, and believing in their potential.

Empowerment Activity: Have Black girls write a letter to their future selves about the impact they hope to make in the world.

Women’s History Month is About More Than the Past—It’s About the Future

The stories we share today will shape the leaders of tomorrow. By teaching Black girls about the women who paved the way, we give them the confidence to take up space, dream beyond limits, and create history in their own right.

Black girls, your history is powerful. Your future is limitless. Your story is just beginning.

Who’s a Black woman in history that inspires you? Share in the comments!