NAAM celebrates the 100th birthday of Shirley Chisholm on Freedom Day with free admission all day Saturday! Born November 30,1924, in Brooklyn, New York City, Shirley Chisholm was an American political pioneer. Chisholm was the first Black woman in Congress and the first Black person to run for a major party's nomination for President of the United States. By focusing on Shirley Chisholm’s impact, we aim to highlight the ongoing journey for equity and representation and inspire dialogue on the role of Black women in driving change. Of her legacy, Chisholm said, “I want to be remembered as a woman … who dared to be a catalyst of change."

Visitors will have the opportunity to participate in our Emmett Till reflection workshop, in-person interactive story time readings, and a fire-side chat about the “glass cliff', a phenomenon in which women or other marginalized groups are more likely to break the "glass ceiling" (i.e. achieve leadership roles in business and government) during periods of crisis or downturn when the risk of failure is highest.

The fireside chat will be led by Shaude' Moore, CEO of Central District Community Preservations & Development Authority, and Dr. Angela Griffin, CEO of Byrd Barr.