Day 10. Bessie Coleman A Flight for the Ages.

Bessie Coleman (January 26, 1892 – April 30, 1926) became the first Black woman and Native American to earn an international pilot license. Known as “Queen Bess,” she defied societal and racial barriers to achieve her dreams, becoming a pioneer in aviation and an inspiration for generations to come.

Bessie Coleman’s Journey
Born in Atlanta, Texas, Bessie Coleman grew up in a sharecropping family and faced poverty and discrimination. Despite these challenges, she cultivated a love for learning and a fierce determination to succeed.

In her 20s, inspired by stories of World War I pilots, Coleman dreamed of flying. However, no flight school in the United States would accept her due to her race and gender. Undeterred, she moved to France in 1920, where she earned her pilot license from the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale in 1921. She later trained in stunt flying, becoming a skilled aerial performer admired for her daring loops and dives.

The Impact of Bessie Coleman’s Flight

1. Breaking Barriers
   Coleman’s achievements shattered racial and gender barriers in aviation, paving the way for future Black and female aviators. She famously said: “The air is the only place free from prejudice.”
2. Inspiring Generations
   • Queen Bess used her platform to inspire others, refusing to perform for segregated audiences. Her determination to challenge inequality and inspire marginalized communities solidified her legacy
3. Dreaming Beyond Limits
   • Coleman’s life story exemplifies perseverance. She believed in dreaming big and never letting obstacles stand in the way.

Quotes to Reflect On
Bessie Coleman’s words remain a testament to her courage and vision:

“I refused to take no for an answer.”

“You’ve never lived until you’ve flown.”

Her fearless spirit inspires us to soar beyond limitations.

Stories of Courage
One remarkable story from Coleman’s life is how she raised funds for her aviation training. Working as a manicurist and laundress, she saved money and received financial support from prominent Black businessmen like Robert Abbott, founder of the Chicago Defender. Their belief in her dream underscores the power of community support in overcoming barriers.

Learn More and Celebrate Bessie Coleman
Explore Bessie Coleman’s life and achievements through these resources:

• Books and Biographies:
  • “Queen Bess: Daredevil Aviator,” by Doris L. Rich
  • “Nobody Owns the Sky: The Story of “Brave Bessie” Coleman,” by Reeve Lindbergh

Reflection and Call to Action
Bessie Coleman’s life challenges us to dream big and persist in the face of adversity. Her journey invites us to reflect:

• What barriers can we break by daring to believe in ourselves and others?
• How can we use our platforms to inspire and uplift marginalized communities?

As we honor Bessie Coleman, let her courage and determination remind us that the sky is not the limit—it’s just the beginning.

Join us tomorrow as we celebrate Roberta Flack and her legendary music.

Learn more: The Bessie Coleman Aviation All-Stars support youth in aviation, working to expand access to flight and the study of aeronautics to young people.

Join us this month as we honor 28 luminaries and celebrate the enduring legacy of Black excellence. Together, we can build a more just and compassionate world. By embracing the richness of Black history and culture, we can strengthen our community and create a more vibrant and equitable future for all.

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