Shirley Chisholm

Queens Podcast

Shirley Anita Chisholm was an American politician who, in 1968, became the first Black woman to be elected to the United States Congress. Today, we delve into Shirley Chisholm's life, accomplishments, and struggles in politics, from her upbringing in Barbados and Brooklyn to DC and a congressional seat.

Guess what. Being a woman in politics wasn't easy. And Shirley didn't pretend that she wasn't working with a "double handicap" as a Black woman. But hard headed Shirley never let the bastards get her down and worked her way to a spot of great respect and into making actual change for the American people.

Despite facing death threats and criticism, Chisholm stayed determined, earning her an appropriate nickname, "Fighting Shirley." We make a couple of comparisons to Victoria Woodhull in this episode, so make sure to revisit those episodes. Much like Vicky, Shirley's run for the white house was a huge first. And we just love her so much.

Time stamps

1:37 Early life and education

13:23 She enters a political career

25:54 Shirley faces discrimination as a black woman in college

32:05 Shirley's trailblazing presidential campaign

39:18 Shirley's retirement and continued activism

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