“Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.” –Harriet Tubman
Throughout Black history, there have been countless individuals who dared to dream big and succeeded against all odds. They overcame racism and adversity to achieve greatness. During the times of slavery and Jim Crow, black people were determined to prove their worth and break down barriers. We can learn so much from the inspiring words of these heroes and heroines who achieved their dreams despite all odds.
During Black History Month, we often reflect on the heroic actions of those who fought for civil rights and equality. From Harriet Tubman to Frederick Douglass to Martin Luther King Jr., these inspiring figures have shown us what it takes to overcome adversity, racism, and oppression.
But there are many other black heroes and heroines who have achieved greatness in the face of immense challenges. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at six individuals whose words of wisdom remind us that anything is possible if you never give up on your dreams.
They have left behind powerful messages that continue to inspire us today—reminding us that anything is possible if you put your mind to it! Let us honor them by striving for greatness every day. The six individuals are:
Dream Action Takers!
-Ella Baker (1903-1986): A civil rights leader and social activist, Ella Baker was one of the most influential voices of her time. She devoted her life to justice and equity for all people, particularly African Americans. Her famous quote “Give light and people will find their own way” reminds us that it’s important to empower others with knowledge so they can make informed decisions about their lives.
– John Lewis (1940-2020): John Lewis was a civil rights leader and congressman from Georgia who dedicated his life to fighting for racial justice and human rights. . He was also one of the original 13 Freedom Riders in 1961 who were protesting segregation on buses throughout America’s south by riding together regardless of race. His famous quote is “When you see something that is not right, not fair, not just – you have a moral obligation to do something about it.”
He famously said “You cannot be afraid to speak up and speak out for what you believe is right”, encouraging us all to stand up for what we believe in despite any obstacles or opposition we may encounter along the way.
. – Sojourner Truth (1797-1883): An abolitionist and women’s rights advocate, Sojourner Truth used her unforgettable voice to fight against slavery and racial inequality. In one of her most famous speeches she said “If women want any rights more than they got, why don’t they just take them?” This powerful quote inspires us all to take action instead of waiting around for change that may never come if we simply sit back and hope for the best.
– Ida B Wells (1862-1931) – Ida B Wells was an investigative journalist who fought tirelessly against lynching throughout her lifetime – often putting herself in danger by reporting on cases that no one else would touch out of fear or apathy. She spent her life writing articles exposing injustice while also advocating for voting rights for women and African Americans alike! Her famous quote is “The way to right wrongs is to turn the light of truth upon them.”
– Jackie Robinson (1919-1972): As one of the first black players in major league baseball history, Jackie Robinson faced discrimination with courage and grace throughout his career as an athlete. His iconic words “A life is not important except in the impact it has on other lives” remind us that even when times are tough, our actions can have a lasting effect on those around us—if we choose wisely.
– Thurgood Marshall (1908-1993): Thurgood Marshall was an American lawyer who served as Associate Justice on the Supreme Court from 1967 until 1991. He famously said “None of us got where we are solely by pulling ourselves up by our bootstraps; we got here because somebody—a parent, a teacher, an Ivy League crony or a few nuns—bent down and helped us pick up our boots” reminding us that success does not come easily—it requires hard work combined with help from those around us!
Dream but Take Action!
What dream do you have in your heart that you would like to achieve in 2023? What dream that is in your heart that you want to begin taking courageous action to achieve in 2023?
Dreaming big means having the courage to set lofty, ambitious goals and aspirations, even if they may seem unrealistic or difficult to achieve. When you dream big, you have the courage to think beyond your current circumstances and to envision a better future for yourself and others. You want to leave a legacy. So, dream Big.
However, dreaming big and pursuing your dreams is not always easy, especially if you are faced with racism, prejudice, adversity, or obstacles. These barriers can make it difficult to achieve your goals and can cause you to doubt yourself or your abilities. But having the courage to persist and overcome these obstacles is key to achieving your dreams. You can do it .
Having the courage to pursue your dreams despite these challenges means that you are willing to take risks, face adversity, and persevere even in the face of setbacks and failures. It requires a strong belief in yourself and your abilities, a determination to never give up, and a willingness to keep pushing forward, no matter what obstacles you may encounter. Take Courageous Action.
Remember “all your dreams can true if you have the courage to pursue them”( Walt Disney). Have faith in God and walk by faith.
While these six individuals were all unique in their own ways with different ideas about how best to achieve equality for African Americans in America during their lifetime, they were united by a common dream: To live in a world where everyone is treated fairly regardless of race or gender. Their inspiring stories remind us that no dream is too big nor too small if you never give up on it—and if you continue working hard despite any obstacles you may encounter along the way! With these inspiring words from some remarkable individuals ringing in our heads this February during Black History Month, let’s strive together to have a real impact on this nation! We owe them a debt of gratitude for paving the way for future generations! #blackhistorymonth #dreambig #courageousdreamers #nevergiveup #determination #perseverance #faith #heroesandheroinesofblackhistorymonthtowardsmutualrespectamongallpeople.
Linda Fegins, “The Courage Catalyst” linda@lindadfegins.com copyright2023