Through their achievements in the dramatic arts, African American women have broken barriers, enriched American culture, and inspired audiences around the world. Over time, the roles that black artists played on the stage and screen reflected changing aspirations, struggles, and realities for women of color in American society.

During the segregation era, discriminatory laws and practices made traveling by car a difficult and even dangerous experience for African Americans.

Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Pride Month (LGBT Pride Month) is celebrated each year in June to honor the 1969 Stonewall riots in Manhattan. The Stonewall riots were a tipping point for the Gay Liberation Movement in the U.S. Initially the last Sunday in June was celebrated as “Gay Pride Day,” but the actual day was flexible. In major cities across the nation the “day” soon grew to encompass a month-long series of events.

Before the 1970s, Aunt Jemima’s pancake box carried the stereotypical image of a black cook. Today, a new wave of African American chefs safeguard Southern foodways.

The case of the Scottsboro Boys lasted more than 80 years and helped spur the Civil Rights Movement.

Tony award winner Harry Belafonte was at the forefront of the Civil Rights Movement and remains a staunch human rights activist.