From Zendaya, young Black artists, athletes, and activists have expressed wisdom far beyond their years
n Tuesday, it’s time to celebrate the contributions of Black Americans, including the many strides made by artists, athletes, and activists in recent months.
“Abbott Elementary” creator and star Quinta Brunson became the second Black woman ever to win an Emmy for lead actress in a comedy last month. In November, Tracy Chapman became the first Black person to win song of the year at the Country Music Awards for her 1988 folk anthem, “Fast Car.”
Also in November, then-19-year-old Laila Edwards became the first Black woman to play for the U.S. senior national hockey team. And at just 21, LGBTQ activist Jerome Foster II is the youngest White House advisor in history, advising the Biden administration on climate change.
Edwards and Foster are among the youngest Black Americans consistently breaking records and reaching milestones. Here are inspiring quotes from them and other young Black artists, athletes and activists as we kick off Black History Month.
“I use my platform for more than just myself. Art is a reflection of human emotions. To neglect the political is to neglect what essentially is your job of storytelling. I would rather be known for the content of my character than for the project that I did.”
– Zendaya, 27, two-time Emmy-winning actor
