Vivien Thomas. The Janitor Who Revolutionised Heart Surgery

In 1930, a young Black man, Vivien Theodore Thomas, arrived at Vanderbilt University, officially employed as a janitor but deeply passionate about medicine. With no formal training beyond high school, he impressed Dr. Alfred Blalock so profoundly that he rapidly progressed from sweeping floors to mastering complex surgical techniques in the lab 

In 1941, Blalock brought Thomas to Johns Hopkins, where alongside cardiologist Helen Taussig they embarked on pioneering work to treat “blue baby syndrome” (Tetralogy of Fallot).

Thomas conducted hundreds of experiments in animals, developing the methodical precision needed. On November 29, 1944, during the first human operation,

Thomas stood behind Blalock, coaching every move from a step stool. His contributions saved countless lives and ushered in modern heart surgery.

The Forgotten First to Win the Kentucky Derby

In 1875, Oliver Lewis, a 19-year-old Black man born free in the heart of Kentucky, did something no one else had ever done, he became the first jockey to win the Kentucky Derby, a sporting event that would go on to define American tradition. But unlike the marble statues and glossy textbooks reserved for others, his story has been buried in silence.

Understand this. Thirteen out of fifteen jockeys in the first Derby were Black. The horse that crossed the finish line Aristide was trained by a Black man, Ansel Williamson. Black excellence wasn’t invited to the table. We built the table. We were the sport!

But why haven’t you heard this before?

Say Her Name — Althea Gibson

Let’s be clear, before there was Serena, before there was Venus, before global sponsors, center court interviews and headline-making prize money there was Althea Gibson.

In 1957, Althea didn’t just win Wimbledon. She broke it.

She smashed through the country club walls of exclusion and served notice to a world that never expected a Black woman to hold a tennis racket, let alone a championship trophy.

This isn’t just Black history. This is American history. This is world history. But it’s also the kind of history they won’t put in your textbooks, the kind they won’t show in your highlight reels. That’s why we’re here to remind you, to reclaim the narrative and to honor our heroes the way they deserve to be honored.

We Were There Then, We're Here Now!

Take a good look at this photo.

Look closely. What you see is not just Black excellence it’s Black legacy stitched into the very fabric of American history. These proud, bold, unstoppable Black cowboys and cowgirls were not sidekicks in history’s story. They were the story.

The image you're looking at is a reminder that the story of America. Yes, including the story of country music, of the open frontier, of cowboy grit cannot and must not be told without recognising the contributions of Black Americans.

You see, the roots of country music don’t just run through dusty towns and Grand Ole Opry stages. No, my brothers and sisters, they reach back to the songs of the enslaved . The spirituals, the work songs, the field hollers and the blues birthed in bondage but soaring with soul. That’s the real music of America. That’s…

They Tried to Erase Her – But Her Legacy Still Speaks: The Story of Sarah Rector

Let me ask you a question.

Why is it that the name Sarah Rector isn’t in every textbook; every Black child’s mouth, every economics syllabus across this country?

By the age of 10, this powerful young girl born to formerly enslaved parents became the richest Black child in America. Not because she was chosen by the system, but because she was chosen by God and blessed through reparations from the Creek Nation with land that would change her life.

Clara Belle Williams:

A Legacy of Resilience, Education and Empowerment

Clara Belle Williams’ life story is a testament to unyielding determination, the transformative power of education and the indomitable spirit of Black women. Born in 1885, in Plum, Texas, Williams overcame the systemic racism of her time to leave an enduring legacy that continues to inspire Black academics, students and educators. Despite the obstacles she faced, her resolve to achieve higher education and uplift her community is a powerful reminder that perseverance can transcend even the harshest barriers.

Williams was the valedictorian of the 1908 graduating class of Prairie View A & M University (formerly Prairie New Normal and Independent College), an institution historically known for empowering Black students. As a young woman with an unrelenting thirst for knowledge,…

Jackie Tonawanda:

Breaking Barriers in Boxing and Beyond

In the world of professional sports, where barriers for women—especially Black women—seemed insurmountable, Jackie Tonawanda emerged as a true trailblazer. Known as "The Female Ali," Jackie Tonawanda was the first Black woman to be granted a professional boxing license in New York, shattering stereotypes and paving the way for generations of women in sports. Her courage, determination, and indomitable spirit not only earned her accolades inside the ring but also solidified her place as a ground-breaking figure in sports history.

A Pioneer in Professional Boxing

Nina Simone:

The High Priestess of Soul and a Voice for Change

Nina Simone, born Eunice Kathleen Waymon on February 21, 1933, was a musical powerhouse and an outspoken activist who used her talents to redefine art and amplify the fight for justice. Known as the "High Priestess of Soul," Simone’s music transcended genres, blending classical, jazz, blues, gospel, folk and R&B into a sound uniquely her own. Her contralto voice, marked by its richness and depth, became a vehicle for storytelling that resonated with listeners worldwide.

Simone’s path to fame wasn’t traditional. She grew up in Tryon, North Carolina, as a musical prodigy, showing immense talent for the piano from a young age. Her dream of becoming a classical pianist was dashed when she was denied entry to the Curtis Institute of Music, a rejection that many believe was racially motivated. Undeterred, Simone pursued her passion through other avenues.…

Honouring Black Excellence:

Why Their Stories Matter

Black History Month is far more than an annual celebration; it’s a powerful reminder of the resilience, brilliance and transformative legacies of individuals who not only shaped history but dared to redefine it. The iconic Black leaders we honour this month represent more than their accomplishments—they embody movements, ideas and values that continue to inspire and influence generations. Their stories are a testament to the power of vision, determination and courage in the face of unimaginable challenges.

Each name in the powerful image we reflect on today holds profound meaning. Martin Luther King Jr. didn’t just dream of justice; he embodied the fight for it. Harriet Tubman wasn’t just a leader; she was a liberator who risked everything for freedom. Maya Angelou’s words didn’t just inspire; they gave voice to the voiceless. Each of these individuals, from Malcolm X’s fierce advocacy to Madam…