Nebraska Synod ELCA

Written by Rev. Carolyn Grice

I was working on a personal Black History project about Unsung Women Sheroes. I have been in my ‘empower women and girls’ stage of life for most of it! I particularly wanted to investigate women who changed our lives even if we were not aware of it. The conclusion of the report will be wondering how the world would be different if women were in charge from the beginning?!

By now you’ve heard about the Hidden Figures. These were three African American women who were math geniuses that helped advance the Space program in the early 60’s. John Glenn wouldn’t fly into space unless the numbers were corroborated by Katherine Johnson.

Did you know Dr. Patricia Bath became the first Black medical doctor to receive a patent when she invented a laser cataract treatment device called a Laserphaco Probe? That was in 1986.

In 1919, Alice Parker got a patent for using natural gas for the first time to keep homes warm. Her inspiration came from the limited efficiency of fireplaces (along with the smoke and ash the produced). Let’s hear it for the gas fireplace!

In 1966, Mary Van Brittan Brown co-invented the home security system.

I come back to Black History. I look at the setback we have experienced in human and civil rights and increase in racism in recent years. I just read of a black, female entrepreneur who had a great business going until customers found out she was black, and they demanded their money back. I look at the rise of “Karens” and wonder how we got to this place.

I grew up in North Omaha. My parents were community activists. That’s how I learned to appreciate what I have and give to others. I learned how important it was to get an education. I learned how not to get discouraged by things in the world and keep hope alive and maintain faith in God.

I remember folks stopping by our house visiting with my parents about the freeway coming through and splitting North Omaha. My father told them when it was first discussed that it was going to happen. The same for closing off North 16th Street to build a hotel on the street and thereby blocking access to North Omaha to and from downtown. These were racist moves. Now there is conversation about getting rid of the freeway and tearing down the hotel.

I have learned to be vigilant. Speak up. Don’t assume others know the whole story. And even when things are most discouraging, keep moving forward because God is working through me to help bring about change and make a difference.