February 1^st sheds light on many historical African American Legends that have changed the way we see, think, and experience the world around us. In the height of moments shared by us today, it becomes a blessing to be able discuss the minority men and women who changed the majority. Through recent generations we have witnessed the perpetual pace at which civil rights movements have been advancing through time with legendary leaders behind them. Some of these exceptional people have sadly gone on to pass but have left no less than an impact on our institutions of today.

Alicia Garza

Civil rights activist and writer, Ms. Alicia Garza has gone on to become a modern-day example of how a single voice can be loud enough to make a change. Going on to co-found the Black Lives Matter movement, a decentralized political and social movement supporting the lives of African American people in the United States. Garza’s impact on the civil-rights movement will be one that will live on in history books and young minds alike.

“Alicia Garza at The People’s Disruption” by Trebor Scholz’ Photos is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

Tarana Burke

Creator of the “Me Too” Movement and political activist, Tarana Burke’s mission to help women of whom have experienced sexual assault would soar in the recent decade. Because of Burke’s help and compassion for other assault victims, Ms. Burke would lead a movement that would help silenced women be heard and bring justice into their hands.

“Tarana Burke” by pennstatenews is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

John Lewis

For decades a man of whom would be known by the world as John Lewis would fulfill his efforts to end legalized racial segregation in the United States during the early 1960’s. Becoming a United States Repsentative in his later years, Lewis would leave nothing but a fine legacy in his passing.

“Rep. John Lewis” by Philocrites is licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0

W. E. B. Du Bois

African American sociologist, civil right leader, and creator of the National Association for the Advancements of Colored People (NAACP), Du Bois has created a foundation and legacy that is shed in youth and old today. Becoming one of the largest civil rights associations in the world, Du Bois’ NAACP has accumulated over five hundred thousand members in recent years.

“NAACP founder and advocate of action W. E. B. Du Bois: 1945” by Washington Area Spark is licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0