Since the early 1900’s, a turbulent time for women’s rights, we’ve celebrated our accomplishments as well as discussed the work and long road ahead. Despite the countless opportunities offered those with “first world problems,” women around the world are still fighting for even the most basic rights. Today, Vixen salutes five women who’ve overcome adversity…And who you need to know. Get inspired!
Kamala Harris, California Attorney General
Kamala is the first black woman to be elected Attorney General in California. Often called “the female Barack Obama,” she is known for establishing a program that offers education and job-training assistance to former prisoners. She is also credited for raising California’s felony conviction rate to 67% while serving as district attorney. Oprah Winfrey has called her one of the most powerful women in America.
Photo Credit: Politico
Sloane Stephens, Tennis Player
Achieving a Grand Slam–winning the Australian Open, the French Open, the U.S. Open and Wimbledon all in the same year–is a lofty goal. The last player to do this was Steffi Graff back in 1988, and she is still the record holder thanks to 19-year old Sloane Stephens who defeated potential Grand Slam winner Serena Williams.
As the youngest player in the WTA (Women’s Tennis Association) Top 40, her list of endorsement deals already includes Under Armour, Johnson & Johnson, American Express, Head Racquets and Usana Health Sciences.
Photo Credit: WILLIAM WEST/AFP/Getty Images
Ava DuVernay, Filmmaker
Ava is one busy lady. After directing three documentaries, she became the first African-American woman to win the Best Director Award at the Sundance Film Festival. Her film, Middle of Nowhere, is a story about the experiences of a woman who has lost her husband to prison. She is also founder of AFFRM (African American Film Festival Releasing Movement), an organization that seeks to empower black filmmakers.
Photo Credit: IndieFlix
Lisa Price, Founder of Carol’s Daughter
With just $100 and a kitchen table, Lisa Price started making her own hair products. After selling her creations at flea markets and street fairs, she leveraged her success to the multi-million dollar company that is Carol’s Daughter today.
Photo Credit: Nunez
Shonda Rimes, Television Producer
Arguably the most powerful black woman in Hollywood, Shonda Rhimes is the first of her kind to create and executive produce three top 10 primetime series: Grey’s Anatomy, Scandal and Private Practice. Yes, you can thank her for your Olivia Pope obsession!
Photo Credit: Getty Images