March is Women’s History Month – a time to honor the women shaping a more sustainable future for us all. In this issue, we spotlight three inspiring local Black women whose leadership and impact continue to open doors and create new pathways in our community.

Be sure to read about our current exhibits at BHMVA and dive into exciting events we have planned. Read on to learn more about these powerful stories, discover ways to get involved, and find out how you can join us in celebrating and uplifting the work happening right here in our community!

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Women’s History Month: Celebrating Influential Black Women in Virginia

Maggie Lena Walker

Born in Richmond, Virginia, Maggie Walker was an American business person and teacher. In 1903, Walker became both the first African-American woman to charter a bank and the first African-American woman to serve as a bank president.

Jennifer McClellan

Born in Petersburg, Virginia, Jennifer is the first Black woman to be elected to Congress from Virginia. She is currently an American politician and attorney serving as the U.S. representative for Virginia’s 4th congressional district since 2023.

Viola Osborne Baskerville

Viola Baskerville, born in Richmond, Virginia, is a lawyer and politician who served in the Virginia House of Delegates. She was instrumental in advocating for the creation of an Arthur Ashe monument in Richmond.

If you want to learn more about these women, or other influential Black women from Virginia, visit this link: https://www.virginia.gov/black-history-month/featured-men-and-women-archive/