Lena Baker was first and only woman executed in Georgia in the electric chair on 3/5/1945. She maintained her innocence. Her last words were: “God has forgiven me . . . I am one in the number. I am ready to meet my God. I have a very strong conscience.” She was pardoned in 2005.

Mary Lou Williams, 1910-1981, (the First Lady of Jazz keyboard and one of the most successful jazz women musicians, appeared on Sesame Street in 1975, performed for President Carter, and one of three women in the iconic photo “A Great Day in Harlem” in 1958.

Barbara Lee born in 1946 is the first Black woman to represent Northern California in the state Legislature.

Melba Liston, 1926-1999. First woman trombonist to play in big bands during the 1940s and 1960s.

Cathy Hughes born 1947. Founder of Urban One, Inc. the largest Black owned and operated media company in the United States of America.

Hakim’s Bookstore founded by Dawud Abdel Hakim in 1959, first Black bookstore in Philadelphia is officially honored with a historical marker.

Muhindi ears of corn representing the children of the family in Kwanzaa.

Ujamaa (cooperative economics) is the 4th day/principle of Kwanzaa celebrated December 29th. To build and maintain our own stores, shops, and other businesses and profit from them together. Harambee! Harambee! Harambee! Harambee!