Society & Culture
Alice Ball A Pioneering Chemist
Alice Augusta Ball, born on July 24, 1892, in Seattle, Washington, was a pioneering African American chemist whose work laid the foundation for modern treatments of leprosy (Hansen’s disease). Despite her short life, she made significant contributions to science and medicine.
Early Life and Education:
Alice Ball was the third of four children born to James Presley and Laura Louise (Howard) Ball. She excelled academically from a young age, and her family moved to Honolulu, Hawaii, in search of a better climate for her grandfather, who suffered from arthritis.
Ball attended Seattle High School and went on to study chemistry at the University of Washington. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in pharmaceutical chemistry in 1912 and a second degree in pharmacy in 1914. Her exceptional academic performance earned her a scholarship to the University of Hawaii, where she pursued a Master’s degree in chemistry.
Groundbreaking Work:
At the University of Hawaii, Ball worked under the guidance of Dr. Harry T. Hollmann on the development of a treatment for leprosy. At the time, chaulmoogra oil was used to treat the disease, but its application was not effective because it was difficult to absorb. Ball’s work focused on isolating the active compounds in the oil and making them injectable. She succeeded in creating what became known as the “Ball Method,” a treatment that allowed for better absorption and more effective results.
Accomplishments and Honors:
Alice Ball was the first woman and the first African American to earn a Master’s degree from the University of Hawaii. Her method quickly became the standard treatment for leprosy, significantly improving the quality of life for countless patients around the world. Unfortunately, Ball’s career was cut short when she died at the age of 24 on December 31, 1916, possibly due to complications from inhaling chlorine gas in a laboratory accident.
Despite her untimely death, Ball’s contributions were recognized posthumously. In 2000, the University of Hawaii honored her by dedicating a plaque to her on the school’s campus. The governor of Hawaii declared February 29 “Alice Ball Day” in recognition of her work. Additionally, in 2022, the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine added her name to the prestigious LSHTM Hall of Fame.
Legacy:
Alice Ball’s legacy is one of brilliance, perseverance, and groundbreaking achievement. Her work not only advanced the treatment of leprosy but also paved the way for future generations of women and scientists of color. Her contributions to the field of chemistry and medicine continue to be celebrated and remembered.
#AliceBall #PioneeringChemist #MedicalInnovator #Trailblazer
Dr. Thema Bryant-Davis: A Leader in Psychology and Empowerment
Dr. Thema Bryant-Davis is a renowned psychologist known for her impactful work in trauma recovery and empowerment. Her book, “Homecoming: Overcome Fear and Trauma to Reclaim Your Whole, Authentic Self,” is a beacon of hope for many navigating difficult life experiences.
With a doctorate from Duke University, Dr. Thema now shares her expertise as an associate professor at Pepperdine University. She also directs the Culture and Trauma Research Lab, where she explores how culture influences mental health and trauma recovery.
Dr. Thema’s dedication has earned her numerous accolades, including the prestigious 2015 California Psychological Association Distinguished Scientist Award. As the former president of the Society for the Psychology of Women, she has been a trailblazer in promoting gender equality and empowerment.
Today, we honor Dr. Thema Bryant-Davis for her profound contributions to psychology and trauma recovery. Her work continues to inspire and uplift individuals, guiding them on a journey toward healing and authenticity.
Celebrating National Nurses Day and Honoring Eunice Rivers Laurie
Today, May 6th, marks National Nurses Day, a time to recognize and appreciate the dedication and hard work of nurses everywhere. Their commitment to caring for others is truly inspiring, and on this day, we extend our heartfelt thanks to each and every nurse.
In honoring National Nurses Day, we also remember the remarkable contributions of Eunice Rivers Laurie (1899–1986), an African American nurse whose impact resonates to this day. Eunice Rivers Laurie played a pivotal role in the U.S. Public Health Service Syphilis Study in Macon County from 1932 to 1972. Her work, though controversial, was instrumental in advancing medical knowledge and treatment methods.
Portrayed by Alfre Woodard in the movie “Miss Evers’ Boys,” Eunice Rivers Laurie was among the first African Americans employed by the United States Public Health Service. Her dedication to healthcare and improving the lives of others was recognized with the prestigious Oveta Culp Hobby Award.
Today, as we celebrate National Nurses Day, let us also remember and honor the legacy of Eunice Rivers Laurie, a trailblazer in the field of nursing whose contributions continue to inspire us all.
#NationalNursesDay #EuniceRiversLaurie #PowerfulBlackWomen #Tuskegee
Celebrating Athena Cage: A Multi-Talented Artist and Community Leader
Today, on May 6th, we are excited to celebrate the 54th birthday of the incredibly talented Athena Cage!
Known for her exceptional skills as a singer, producer, and songwriter, Athena has left an indelible mark on the music industry.
Athena’s musical journey includes the double platinum success of her debut solo single, “All or Nothing,” featured in the MTV/Paramount Pictures film “Save the Last Dance.” Additionally, her collaborations with Keith Sweat have resulted in three number-one, multiplatinum chart-toppers, including the R&B classic “Nobody,” “Get Up On It,” and “Twisted.” Her talent and hard work were further recognized when she received BMI’s prestigious “Pop Song of the Year” Award for co-writing “Twisted.” 🎼
Beyond her musical accomplishments, Athena is also a beacon of light in her community. In recognition of her outstanding community work and youth service, the street where Athena grew up was renamed “Athena Cage Way.” Additionally, she has established “The Athena Cage Scholarship Fund,” providing support to students in need who are pursuing Music Education.
Join us in celebrating the remarkable Athena Cage, a powerhouse in the music industry and a dedicated advocate for education and community development!
Honoring Tammi Terrell: A Timeless Voice
Today, April 29th, we celebrate the life and legacy of the talented Tammi Terrell, who was born on this day in 1945, making her 79 years old if she were still with us. Tammi Terrell’s impact on music, particularly in the realm of soul and R&B, is profound and continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.
Tammi Terrell rose to fame with her solo hits, including “All I Do Is Think About You” and “Come On and See Me,” showcasing her incredible vocal range and emotive delivery. However, it was her duets with Marvin Gaye that truly showcased her talent and solidified her status as a music icon. Songs like “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” and “Ain’t Nothing Like the Real Thing” are timeless classics that continue to captivate listeners.
Tragically, Tammi Terrell’s life was cut short at the young age of 24 due to brain cancer. Despite her untimely passing, her music lives on as a testament to her talent and artistry. In recognition of their musical collaboration, “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame, cementing Tammi Terrell’s legacy in music history.
Today, we remember Tammi Terrell not only for her incredible voice and musical contributions but also for the joy and inspiration she brought to countless fans around the world. Her music remains a beacon of light, touching the hearts of listeners and reminding us of the power of soulful expression.
Powerful Black Love: Celebrating Black Love
Powerful Black Love is being updated.
Shiela Johnson – Walk Through Fire
Sheila Johnson is 75 years old, born January 25, 1949.
Cicely Tyson – Just As I Am
Remembering the iconic Cicely Tyson, born in Harlem, NY on December 19, 1924, she carved a trailblazing legacy in the world of acting and championed equality in the entertainment industry. Just three days before her passing on Jan. 28, 2021, at the age of 96 she released “Just As I Am: A Memoir”
Her words continue to inspire, quotes by Cicely Tyson:
“I have learned not to allow rejection to move me.” ~Cicely Tyson
“When you don’t know your true value, you see the world through the lens of how you don’t measure up.” – Cicely Tyson, actress, model, and author.
I am not a quitter. I will fight until I drop. It is just a matter of having some faith in the fact that as long as you are able to draw breath in the universe, you have a chance.” – Interview with Oprah Winfrey, 2012
“The moment anyone tries to demean or degrade you in any way, you have to know how great you are. Nobody would bother to beat you down if you were not a threat.” – Ebony Magazine, 1972
“Challenges make you discover things about yourself that you never really knew.” – Interview with The New York Times, 2015
These quotes reflect Cicely Tyson’s resilience, self-worth, and wisdom gained through a remarkable life.
Quotes by Maya Angelou, Audre Lorde, and Toni Morrison
Powerful quotes from Maya Angelou, Audre Lorde, and Toni Morrison:
Maya Angelou:
1. “You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them.”
– Maya Angelou, Interview with The Academy of Achievement (1993)
2. “Success is liking yourself, liking what you do, and liking how you do it.”
– Maya Angelou, Wouldn’t Take Nothing for My Journey Now (1993)
3. “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
– Maya Angelou, Letter to My Daughter (2008)
Audre Lorde:
1. “I am not free while any woman is unfree, even when her shackles are very different from my own.”
– Audre Lorde, “The Uses of Anger: Women Responding to Racism,” Sister Outsider: Essays and Speeches (1984)
Note: The quote “I am not free while any woman is unfree, even when her shackles are very different from my own.” is from Audre Lorde’s essay titled “The Uses of Anger: Women Responding to Racism.” This essay is part of her collection “Sister Outsider: Essays and Speeches,” published in 1984.
2. “Your silence will not protect you.”
– Audre Lorde, “The Transformation of Silence into Language and Action,” Sister Outsider: Essays and Speeches (1984)
3. “Caring for myself is not self-indulgence, it is self-preservation, and that is an act of political warfare.”
– Audre Lorde, A Burst of Light: Essays (1988)
Toni Morrison:
1. “If there’s a book that you want to read, but it hasn’t been written yet, then you must write it.”
– Toni Morrison, Interview with Nellie McKay, The Paris Review (1993)
2. “You wanna fly, you got to give up the shit that weighs you down.”
– Toni Morrison, Song of Solomon (1977)
3. “You are your best thing.”
– Toni Morrison, Beloved (1987)
These are just a few powerful quotes from these remarkable authors. Their works offer a wealth of wisdom and inspiration.
New Release! Barracoon by Zora Neale Hurston
New book release! Barracoon, by the legendary Zora Neale Hurston! https://amzn.to/4baw39m
Young readers are introduced to the remarkable and true-life story of Cudjo Lewis, one of the last survivors of the Atlantic human trade, an adaptation of the internationally bestselling and critically acclaimed book Barracoon. A book banned from publication until recently.