Honoring Shirley Chisholm’s Legacy: Higher Heights Unveils the 2024 #ChisholmList Celebrating 100 Black Women Leaders

BROOKLYN, NY (December 13, 2024) – On November 30th, we commemorated what would have been Shirley Chisholm’s 100th birthday — a milestone honoring a trailblazer whose legacy continues to inspire generations. Today, Higher Heights is proud to unveil our 2024 #ChisholmList, celebrating 100 Black women leaders who embody her spirit of courage, determination, and transformative leadership. These women are breaking barriers, shaping policy, and driving meaningful change in communities across the nation, carrying forward the powerful legacy of Shirley Chisholm. 

Congresswoman Chisholm took office at a time when the country was deeply divided, but she never let that stop her from fighting for progressive policies that guaranteed civil and human rights for all Americans. Her commitment to change, even in the face of adversity, is something that is continued by Black women leaders today.  

This election cycle, Black women stepped up like never before. When they win, they don’t just lead — they transform and deliver for their communities. Across the country, we’ve witnessed Black women achieve historic victories in mayoral, judicial, and U.S. Congress races, establishing a new era of leadership. Black women are reshaping political landscapes at every level, proving that their influence is vital, now and in the years to come. 

The women on our #ChisholmList are carrying forward Shirley Chisholm’s legacy—lifting up Black women’s voices and fighting for change, all while staying true to their heritage, language, and unique perspectives. They are the trailblazers, and it’s their leadership that will continue to push us toward higher heights.  

“As we celebrate what would have been Shirley Chisholm’s 100th birthday, Higher Heights for America is honored to present our 2024 Shirley Chisholm Sisters to Watch List,” said Glynda Carr, President and CEO of Higher Heights. “These over 100 Black women have boldly taken the reins of political leadership, earning their place as the architects of democracy in 2024. They embody decades of struggle, resilience, and progress, blazing trails for future generations of Black women in politics. 

Shirley Chisholm’s fearless leadership, even in the face of deep political divisions, continues to inspire. Like her, these women have stepped off the sidelines to lead with vision and purpose. Their work is not only shaping today’s political landscape but also defining the path toward a more just and equitable future.” 

View the List Here.  

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Higher Heights for America, a 501(c)(4) organization, and its connected federal political action committee, Higher Heights for America PAC, which works to expand Black women’s elected representation and voting participation. Learn more at https://www.higherheightsforamerica.org.