Innovation isn’t just about technology—it’s about creating equity and access. Despite fervent efforts to dismantle the policies that made it possible to scrape that glass ceiling, women, people of color, and Black women, in particular, are making strides in STEM and tech. Not only do these women advance STEM by simply showing up with confidence and expertise, but they readily reach back and extend their access and influence to help others. In every sector, we have seen exponential growth in the representation and success of Black women in science and tech. These same women are also spearheading the efforts that extend true equity, access, and enjoyment of STEM activities and programs.
Black Women Leading STEM for Social Change
Dr. Ruha Benjamin courtesy of Muhlenberg College.There are several Black women who are actively reshaping the social landscape of the STEM sectors. Today we will feature three women who are making pivotal changes with positive and lasting implications for the greater good.
Dr. Ruha Benjamin and her team research and advocate for inclusive policies in tech and accountability in AI. Her work will lead to more efficient and fair use and distribution of data. Jewel Burks Solomon is the co-founder of Partpic an AI-driven manufacturing tech) which has since been acquired by corporate giant, Amazon. She has since become the leader of Google for Startups to help Black entrepreneurs secure funding.
Dr. Adrienne Hollis is an environmental scientist with a passion for climate justice. Dr. Hollis
Dr. Adrienne Hollis, courtesy of Twin Cities PBS.advocates for actionable change in marginalized communities that are disproportionately affected by climate change. These include people in cities and areas near local waste management and processing plants. From air, water, and soil pollution, there are endless factors to address that affect American citizen’s quality of life. Dr. Hollis’ work not only highlights direct problem areas of the climate crisis, but she is also readily equipped with actionable insights.
Jewel Burks Solomon, courtesy of 21 Ninety.Addressing Barriers to Success
Despite major strides by Black women across STEM sectors, Black women-led startups receive less than 1% of venture capital funding. Systemic challenges limit leadership opportunities and access to STEM education. With the current president of the United States undoing legislation that honors diversity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives at breakneck speed, the socioeconomic pressures that women, people of color, and disabled citizens face may be felt tenfold.
Fortunately, we are simultaneously getting a glimpse at the social resistance that has so often resulted in lasting and sustainable change for all. In the words of Gil Scott Heron, “The revolution will not be televised…the first change that takes place is in your mind.” While we cannot wait for our peers to wake up to a different way of thinking and living, we see the power in people becoming the change they wish to see. The scientists above saw problems in their personal lives and created solutions that could benefit all who encounter similar challenges.
As history shows, Black women continue to rise up and use their unique experiences and knowledge to overcome daunting tasks across all fields. Defying odds comes naturally to women who were born into castes assigned by archaic attempts to understand humankind. By developing and utilizing strong networks, establishing and strengthening their expertise, and outshining expectations regularly, Black women continue to warrant that there is more than enough space for themselves and all other marginalized people to have a seat at the table.
