Who is Shirley Chisholm? The reason so many women at the DNC are wearing white

Though some may be well acquainted with Shirly Chisholm after seeing Netflix’s new film, “Shirley,” which chronicles her audacious 1972 presidential campaign, Chisom was the first Black woman to be elected to Congress, and her memory and legacy are a Northstar for many members of the Democratic party, particularly women of color.

The suffragettes wore white while protesting for the right to vote, and when Representative Chisholm was elected to Congress, she wore white when being sworn in. Her actions helped keep the trend alive, and in more recent years, many women within the party have worn the color during major events.

On the last night of the DNC, many leaders who took to the stage and were present in the audience also opted for white when picking out their outfits for the final day of the convention. One of them was Interior Secretary Deb Haaland who could stay on in her role if Kamala Harris is elected in November.

The life of Shirley Chisholm

Born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1924 to immigrant parents, Chisholm’s life was shaped by the struggles of working-class communities. This instilled in her a deep commitment to social justice, a cause she would champion throughout her career.

Chisholm’s path to Congress began in education. After graduating from college, she became a teacher, witnessing firsthand the inequalities faced by students from disadvantaged backgrounds. This experience fueled her foray into politics. In 1964, she won a seat in the New York State Legislature, becoming the second Black person to do so. Her outspoken advocacy for the poor and minorities earned her the nickname “Fighting Shirley.”

In 1968, with the political landscape shifting due to the Civil Rights Movement, Chisholm seized an opportunity to represent New York’s 12th congressional district. Her slogan, “Unbought and Unbossed,” resonated with voters, particularly those yearning for a voice that challenged the status quo. Chisholm’s victory was a watershed moment, proving that Black women could not only hold elected office but also win over a diverse electorate.

As a Congresswoman, Chisholm continued her fight for equality. She championed legislation addressing poverty, education reform, and the Vietnam War. She co-founded the Congressional Black Caucus, a powerful force advocating for Black interests. In 1972, Chisholm made history again by becoming the first Black candidate and woman to seek the Democratic Party’s nomination for President of the United States. While her campaign ultimately fell short, it sent a powerful message about inclusion and shattered yet another glass ceiling.