On December 11, 2024, Vice President Kamala Harris made history herself, honoring the late Shirley Chisholm by signing the Congressional Gold Medal Act, which bestows one of the highest civilian awards in the nation on the groundbreaking politician. Accompanied by U.S. Representative Barbara Lee and Senator Laphonza Butler, Harris marked the passage of this bipartisan legislation aimed at commemoratively recognizing Chisholm, the first Black woman elected to Congress.
The Shirley Chisholm Congressional Gold Medal Act not only acknowledges her lifetime of service and advocacy but also serves to inspire future generations by reinforcing the importance of activism and representation. "The Congressional Gold Medal serves as the nation’s highest expression of gratitude for distinguished service and achievements, and I see no one more deserving than Shirley Chisholm," said Lee. "She made history, she broke barriers, and this recognition is long overdue."
Chisholm, known affectionately as "Fighting Shirley," served seven terms representing New York’s 12th Congressional District. During her tenure, she introduced over 50 pieces of legislation, championing causes for racial and gender equality and pushing for social justice, particularly for marginalized communities. Her advocacy extended beyond her legislative work; she famously declared her candidacy for the presidency in 1972, making her the first Black woman to run for the presidential nomination of any major political party.
Senator Butler expressed pride and gratitude during the signing, remarking on the significance of Chisholm's legacy: "Shirley Chisholm lived an honorable life of service and was a trailblazer who opened doors for generations of Black women. Her extraordinary contributions to American history deserve recognition, and with this act, we remind everyone of the path she forged for all individuals seeking equality and representation. Her spirit continues to inspire us all to carry on her fight."
Chisholm's legacy is particularly relevant today, with Harris noting how her own political career has been influenced by Chisholm's trailblazing efforts.
"So many of us stand on her broad shoulders," Harris said during the ceremony. "Let us continue to speak truth to power and fight for equality and justice for all." This statement not only reinforced the importance of Chisholm's impact but also highlighted the continuing relevance of her struggles and triumphs for present-day politics.
The Congressional Gold Medal bestowed upon Chisholm follows the Presidential Medal of Freedom she received posthumously from President Barack Obama in 2015. These honors reaffirm her pivotal role not just within the African American community but across the entire spectrum of American society.
On what would have been Chisholm’s 100th birthday, celebrated on November 30, 2024, her remarkable life was honored through various tributes and events, reminding the nation of her groundbreaking work and legacy. Lee, who considered herself one of Chisholm’s mentees, remarked, "It is so important for young leaders to understand the significance of her contributions to our political fabric. Her motto, 'Unbought and Unbossed,' continues to resonate, inspiring leaders to take action and challenge the status quo."
Chisholm’s activism included her staunch opposition to the Vietnam War, her advocacy for educational opportunities, and her commitment to improving the circumstances of low-income communities. These issues remain relevant and are increasingly urgent as the nation grapples with systemic inequality. "I ran because someone had to do it first," she once said about her presidential candidacy, emphasizing the barriers she faced and the spirit of her candidacy as one of hope and possibility.
The Shirley Chisholm Congressional Gold Medal Act garnered significant bipartisan support, with contributions from leading lawmakers across party lines. Notable endorsements came from various senators and congresspersons who together recognized the impact Chisholm had on American society as well as her role as a source of inspiration for countless leaders who came after her. Senator Reverend Warnock stated, "Shirley Chisholm was not just the first African American woman elected to Congress but she was also the epitome of progress and determination for anyone who has felt marginalized or voiceless."
The support for the bill reflected acknowledgment of the historical significance of Chisholm’s contributions. Senator Cortez Masto praised her legacy, saying, "Chisholm paved the way for future generations of women leaders, securing opportunities and representation across the political spectrum. I’m proud to have participated in this effort to honor her contributions."
Likewise, various organizations, including Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, of which Chisholm was a proud member, expressed their pride and endorsement for the legislation. Elsie Cooke-Holmes, the sorority's international president articulated, "Her unbossed and unbought spirit guides the Sorority’s work today and is truly inspiration for every person seeking to make an impact throughout our nation. We celebrate her legacy as we honor the 100th year of her birth."
Overall, the honor through the Congressional Gold Medal is not merely for recognition but also serves to remind society of the continued struggles for equity and justice. With this medal, Shirley Chisholm's legacy—a legacy defined by boundary-breaking and advocacy for all—is irrevocably etched not just in the annals of congressional records but also within the hearts and minds of all who aspire toward social justice.
The bill now awaits the signature of President Biden, who is poised to sign it, finalizing this historic recognition of one of America’s most influential political trailblazers. The act not only celebrates Chisholm’s impactful life but also reinforces the enduring need for advocacy, representation, and inclusivity within the political process. The medal stands as a tribute to her extraordinary contributions and as inspiration for future generations of leaders.
