Famous American Activists

Martin Luther King Jr. was a prominent leader in the American civil rights movement. He advocated for civil rights through nonviolent resistance and civil disobedience against racial discrimination. King led marches, organized protests, and played a key role in significant events such as the Montgomery bus boycott and the March on Washington. He was the first president of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference and received the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts in combating racial inequality. King's legacy continues to be honored through various memorials and a federal holiday.

Malcolm X was an African-American revolutionary, Muslim minister, and human rights activist. He was a prominent figure during the civil rights movement, advocating for Black empowerment and the promotion of Islam within the African-American community. As a spokesman for the Nation of Islam until 1964, he emphasized Black separatism and criticized non-violence and racial integration. After a pilgrimage to Mecca, he embraced Sunni Islam and founded the Islamic Muslim Mosque, Inc. (MMI) and the Pan-African Organization of Afro-American Unity. He was assassinated in 1965 and remains a celebrated figure for his pursuit of racial justice.

Harriet Tubman was an American abolitionist and social activist known for her courageous and impactful actions during the American Civil War. She made multiple missions to rescue enslaved people using the Underground Railroad network. Tubman served as a scout and spy for the Union Army, making her the first woman to lead an armed military operation in the United States. She continued her activism in the women's suffrage movement and is revered as an icon of courage and freedom.

Rosa Parks was an influential American civil rights activist known for her pivotal role in the Montgomery bus boycott. She became an NAACP activist in 1943 and participated in various civil rights campaigns. Parks's refusal to give up her seat on a segregated bus led to a court challenge and ultimately a landmark Supreme Court decision. She worked closely with civil rights leaders, organized protests, and continued advocating for justice throughout her life. Parks received numerous honors and recognition for her tireless efforts in the fight against racial segregation.

Helen Keller was an influential American author, disability rights advocate, political activist, and lecturer. She overcame the challenges of being both deaf and blind, becoming the first deafblind person in the United States to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree. Keller wrote numerous books and delivered hundreds of speeches on various topics. She was a strong advocate for individuals with disabilities, women's suffrage, labor rights, and world peace. Keller's autobiography, "The Story of My Life," brought her educational journey to the public eye and was adapted into a play and film.

Ruby Bridges is an American civil rights activist known for being the first African American child to attend the formerly whites-only William Frantz Elementary School in Louisiana during the New Orleans school desegregation crisis in 1960. Her courageous act of attending the school paved the way for integration in public schools. She is also the subject of a notable painting by Norman Rockwell titled "The Problem We All Live With," which depicts her brave journey as a symbol of the civil rights movement.

Susan B. Anthony was a pioneering American social reformer and women's rights activist who played a pivotal role in the women's suffrage movement. Alongside Elizabeth Cady Stanton, she founded key organizations such as the Women's Loyal National League and the National Woman Suffrage Association. Anthony was a prolific speaker, delivering numerous speeches in support of women's suffrage and working on various state campaigns. She also contributed internationally, helping establish the International Council of Women and organizing the World's Congress of Representative Women.

Cesar Chavez was an American labor leader and civil rights activist. He co-founded the National Farm Workers Association, which later became the United Farm Workers labor union. Chavez organized strikes among farmworkers, notably the successful Delano grape strike of 1965–1970. He emphasized nonviolent tactics, including pickets and boycotts, influenced by Mahatma Gandhi. Chavez sought to expand the UFW's influence outside California and campaigned against illegal immigration. Despite facing criticism and controversy, he became an icon for organized labor and leftist groups in the U.S.

Sojourner Truth was an American abolitionist and activist for African-American civil rights, women's rights, and alcohol temperance. She escaped slavery in 1826 and became the first black woman to win a case against a white man in 1828. In 1843, she adopted the name Sojourner Truth and embarked on a mission to advocate for social justice. Known for her powerful speeches and advocacy work, she played a significant role in recruiting black troops during the Civil War and continued to fight for the rights of women and African Americans until her death.

Erin Brockovich is an American paralegal, consumer advocate, and environmental activist known for her pivotal role in the groundbreaking case against Pacific Gas & Electric Company in Hinkley, California. This success was portrayed in the film "Erin Brockovich." She has since diversified her career, hosting TV shows, founding Brockovich Research & Consulting, and working as a consultant for law firms in the US and Australia. Brockovich's professional endeavors center around advocating for those affected by environmental and personal injury issues.

Coretta Scott King was an American author, activist, and civil rights leader known for her advocacy for African-American equality during the 1960s. She played a prominent role in the civil rights movement after her husband's assassination in 1968, leading the struggle for racial equality and the Women's Movement. King founded the King Center and successfully campaigned for Martin Luther King Jr. Day to be established as a national holiday. She also advocated for LGBTQ rights and opposed apartheid, building relationships with influential politicians.

Martin Luther King III is an American human rights activist, philanthropist, and advocate. He served as the fourth president of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference from 1997 to 2004. Currently, as of 2024, he holds the position of a Professor of practice at the University of Virginia. King has dedicated his career to advancing civil rights, promoting social justice, and advocating for equality. He continues to inspire others through his work in academia and his ongoing commitment to making a positive impact on society.

Ida B. Wells was an American investigative journalist, educator, and civil rights leader who dedicated her career to combating prejudice and violence, advocating for African-American equality. She documented and exposed the brutality of lynching in the United States through articles and pamphlets, debunking myths about victims. Wells co-owned and wrote for the Memphis Free Speech and Headlight newspaper, covering racial segregation and inequality. She faced threats and violence but continued her work in Chicago, writing, speaking, and organizing for civil rights and women's rights. Wells was a prominent figure in the women's suffrage movement and received posthumous recognition for her courageous reporting on violence against African Americans.

Angela Davis is an American Marxist and feminist political activist, philosopher, academic, and author. She is a professor emerita at the University of California, Santa Cruz. Davis has been a member of the Communist Party USA and founding member of the Committees of Correspondence for Democracy and Socialism. She has been involved in various movements including Occupy and the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions campaign. Davis has taught philosophy at UCLA, been a candidate for vice president, co-founded Critical Resistance, and received awards such as the Lenin Peace Prize.

Medgar Evers was an American civil rights activist, soldier, and the NAACP's first field secretary in Mississippi. He challenged racial segregation at the University of Mississippi, sought voting rights enforcement, and worked for economic opportunities and desegregation of public facilities. Evers was involved in civil rights movements following the Brown v. Board of Education ruling, advocating for equal access and opportunities for African Americans. His assassination by Byron De La Beckwith sparked civil rights protests, leading to convictions years later based on new evidence.

Elizabeth Smart is an American child safety activist and commentator for ABC News. She gained national attention at age 14 after being abducted from her home in Salt Lake City. Smart was held captive for nine months until her rescue by police officers. She has since become an advocate for missing persons and spoken out against abstinence-only education. Smart's professional life includes her work as an activist, author, and public speaker, with her story being featured in numerous non-fiction books and films.

Jazz Jennings is an American YouTube personality, spokesmodel, television personality, and LGBT rights activist. She gained national attention for being one of the youngest publicly documented transgender individuals. Jennings is an honorary co-founder of the TransKids Purple Rainbow Foundation and founder of Purple Rainbow Tails, a company that raises money for transgender children. She hosts a YouTube series called "I Am Jazz" and stars in the TLC reality TV series of the same name, which showcases her daily life and the challenges she faces as a transgender person.

Claudette Colvin is an American pioneer of the 1950s civil rights movement and a retired nurse aide. She gained recognition for her courageous act of defiance on a Montgomery bus in 1955, refusing to give up her seat to a white woman. Colvin was one of the plaintiffs in the Browder v. Gayle case, which successfully challenged bus segregation laws in Alabama. Despite facing challenges and lack of recognition initially, her contribution to ending bus segregation and advancing civil rights is now acknowledged and celebrated.

Walter Francis White was an influential American civil rights activist who led the NAACP for 26 years. Joining in 1918, he investigated lynchings and race riots in the South, succeeding James Weldon Johnson in 1929. White strategically challenged racial segregation and disfranchisement through legal means, overseeing the NAACP's Legal Defense Fund and achieving significant victories such as the Brown v. Board of Education ruling. He collaborated with President Truman to desegregate the armed forces post-World War II, significantly increasing NAACP membership during his tenure.

Fredrick Allen Hampton Sr. was an American activist known for his leadership in the Black Panther Party and the Illinois chapter. He founded the Rainbow Coalition, a political organization aiming to unite diverse groups for social change. Hampton was a Marxist-Leninist who viewed fascism as a significant threat. He was targeted by the FBI, leading to his tragic death in a raid on his Chicago apartment. Hampton's legacy is marked by his dedication to fighting racism and classism, and his advocacy for social justice.

Ryan White was an American teenager who became a national symbol for HIV/AIDS advocacy. Diagnosed with AIDS after receiving contaminated blood treatment, he faced discrimination when his school barred him from attending. This sparked a publicized conflict, turning White into a prominent figure advocating for AIDS research and education. Despite being given a short life expectancy, he surpassed expectations and lived longer than predicted. His impact led to the passing of the Ryan White CARE Act, a significant piece of AIDS legislation providing services for those living with HIV/AIDS in the U.S.

Viola Desmond was a Canadian civil and women's rights activist, businesswoman, and pioneer in the fight against racial discrimination. She made history by challenging segregation at a cinema in Nova Scotia and was convicted of a minor tax violation. Her case sparked the modern civil rights movement in Canada. Posthumously granted a free pardon in 2010, she was acknowledged for her rightful resistance to discrimination. In 2018, she became the first Canadian-born woman to appear on a Canadian banknote and was recognized as a National Historic Person.

Stokely Carmichael was a prominent American activist who played a significant role in the civil rights movement and global pan-African movement. He was a key leader in the Black Power movement, first with the SNCC and later as a leader of the Black Panther Party and the All-African People's Revolutionary Party. Carmichael was a voting rights activist in Mississippi and Alabama, developing independent all-black political organizations. He popularized the philosophy of black power through speeches and writings, becoming a popular and controversial figure in the late 1960s.

Afeni Shakur Davis was an American political activist and member of the Black Panther Party. She was the founder of the Tupac Amaru Shakur Foundation and served as the CEO of Amaru Entertainment, Inc., a record and film production company she established. As the executor of her son Tupac Shakur's estate, she played a crucial role in preserving and promoting his legacy. Through her various professional endeavors, Afeni Shakur made significant contributions to the worlds of music, film, and activism.

Edward Snowden is a former American NSA intelligence contractor and whistleblower who leaked classified documents exposing global surveillance programs. He worked for government contractors such as Booz Allen Hamilton, Dell, and the CIA. Snowden raised ethical concerns internally before disclosing information to journalists in 2013. Facing charges of violating the Espionage Act, he sought asylum in Russia, where he was granted citizenship. Snowden has been involved in organizations such as the Freedom of the Press Foundation and has published a memoir detailing his experiences.

Solomon Northup was a farmer and a professional violinist who became known for his memoir Twelve Years a Slave. He was offered a traveling musician's job in Washington, D.C., where he was drugged and kidnapped into slavery. He spent 12 years as a slave in Louisiana until he regained his freedom with the help of Samuel Bass. After his freedom, Northup wrote and published his memoir, becoming a prominent figure in the abolitionist movement, giving speeches to raise awareness about slavery.

Huey P. Newton was an African American revolutionary and political activist who co-founded the Black Panther Party in 1966. Under his leadership, the party established numerous community support programs, including the Free Breakfast for Children program. Newton also co-founded the widely distributed Black Panther newspaper service. He was involved in a fatal shootout in 1967, leading to a conviction later overturned. Newton earned a PhD in social philosophy and advocated for self-defense rights. He was murdered in 1989 in Oakland, California.

Temple Grandin is an American academic and animal behaviorist known for her advocacy of humane treatment of livestock and her extensive research on animal behavior. With over 60 scientific papers published, she is a respected consultant to the livestock industry, offering valuable insights on animal behavior. Grandin is also a prominent figure in the autism community, being one of the first individuals to share her personal experiences with autism. As a faculty member at Colorado State University, she continues to make significant contributions to the field of Animal Sciences.

Benjamin Banneker was a self-taught African-American naturalist, mathematician, astronomer, and almanac author. He worked as a surveyor and farmer, known for assisting in establishing the borders of the District of Columbia. His expertise in astronomy led to the creation of successful almanacs. He corresponded with Thomas Jefferson on issues of slavery and racial equality. Banneker's works were praised by abolitionists and advocates of racial equality, contributing to his status as a folk-hero after his death. His legacy is commemorated in various parks, schools, and streets.

Alice Paul was a prominent American Quaker, suffragist, feminist, and women's rights activist known for her leadership and strategic planning in the campaign for the Nineteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. She co-initiated events like the Woman Suffrage Procession and the Silent Sentinels, which were instrumental in the amendment's passage in 1920. Despite facing police brutality and imprisonment for her activism, Paul remained committed to nonviolence and courage. She later led the National Woman's Party in advocating for the Equal Rights Amendment and achieved significant milestones in securing legal protections against gender discrimination.

Heather Thomas is an American actress known for her role as Jody Banks on The Fall Guy TV series. She retired from acting in 1998 due to stalking incidents and to focus on her family and writing. Post-retirement, she made minor film appearances and engaged in political activism. Thomas resumed her acting career in 2013, showcasing her talent and versatility on screen. Throughout her professional life, she has left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry with her memorable performances and contributions to various projects.

Dorothy Day was an American journalist, social activist, and anarchist who later converted to Catholicism without abandoning her social activism. She co-founded the Catholic Worker Movement in the 1930s, advocating for the poor and homeless through direct aid and nonviolent direct action. Day practiced civil disobedience, leading to multiple arrests. As the editor of the Catholic Worker newspaper, she promoted distributism as an economic theory. The Catholic Church has opened her cause for canonization, referring to her as Servant of God.

Margaret Sanger was an influential American birth control activist, sex educator, writer, and nurse who popularized the term "birth control." She opened the first birth control clinic in the United States and founded organizations that later became Planned Parenthood. Sanger faced legal challenges for distributing information on contraception but continued her advocacy work to empower women to control their reproductive health. She emphasized the importance of contraception to prevent back-alley abortions and fought for the legalization of contraception in the U.S., leaving a lasting impact on the reproductive rights movement.

Laura Jane Addams was an influential American activist, reformer, social worker, sociologist, public administrator, philosopher, and author. She co-founded Hull House in Chicago, a renowned settlement house providing social services to immigrant families. Addams was a pioneer in social work and women's suffrage, receiving accolades such as an honorary degree from Yale University and co-founding the ACLU. She advocated for world peace, becoming the first American woman to win the Nobel Peace Prize. Addams was a leading figure in the Progressive Era and a prominent reformer addressing issues like public health and education.

Earl Holliman is an accomplished American actor known for his versatile performances in films and television shows. He gained recognition for his character roles in Westerns and dramas during the 1950s and 1960s. Holliman's talent was acknowledged with a Golden Globe Award for his role in the film The Rainmaker (1956). He further solidified his reputation by portraying Sergeant Bill Crowley in the popular television police drama Police Woman from 1974 to 1978. Holliman's career highlights his skill and range as a talented actor in the entertainment industry.

Emma González is an influential American activist and advocate for gun control. They survived the Stoneman Douglas High School shooting in 2018, a tragic event that led them to co-found the gun-control advocacy group Never Again MSD. González gained widespread recognition for their passionate speech against gun violence, criticizing politicians backed by the NRA. They have continued to be a prominent figure in the fight for gun control, participating in high-profile events like the March for Our Lives and earning a spot on Time magazine's 100 Most Influential People of 2018.

Yolanda Denise King was an activist and public speaker who also pursued artistic and entertainment endeavors. She became an effective leader in her high school class and was involved in high school politics. In the 1990s, she supported a retrial of James Earl Ray and publicly stated that she did not hate him. King's acting career took off in that decade, with appearances in several projects. She grew to become a supporter of gay rights and an ally to the LGBT community.

Pearl Buck was an influential American writer known for her best-selling novel The Good Earth, which won the Pulitzer Prize. She became the first American woman to win the Nobel Prize in Literature for her epic descriptions of peasant life in China. Buck spent much of her early life in China as a missionary and later returned to the United States where she continued writing prolifically, advocating for women's rights and racial equality. She also promoted Asian and mixed-race adoption and became a prominent activist for social causes.

Samantha Smith was an American peace activist and child actress known for her anti-war efforts during the Cold War. She gained fame for her outreach to the Soviet Union, resulting in a personal invitation from Soviet officials. As a "Goodwill Ambassador," she engaged in peacemaking activities and authored a book about her visit to the Soviet Union. Smith later pursued a career in acting, hosting a special on the 1984 presidential election and appearing in the television series Lime Street.

Barbara Charline Jordan was a trailblazing American lawyer, educator, and politician. As the first African American elected to the Texas Senate post-Reconstruction, she broke barriers by becoming the first Southern African-American woman in the U.S. House of Representatives. Renowned for her eloquence, Jordan made history with her impactful statements during the Nixon impeachment hearings. She further distinguished herself as the first African-American woman to deliver a keynote address at a Democratic National Convention and chair of the U.S. Commission on Immigration Reform.

Daniel Ellsberg was an American political activist, economist, and United States military analyst. He gained national attention in 1971 for releasing the top-secret Pentagon Papers, which detailed U.S. government decision-making during the Vietnam War. Charged under the Espionage Act in 1973, he was later acquitted due to governmental misconduct. Throughout his career, Ellsberg made significant contributions to decision theory, nuclear weapons policy, and supported whistleblowers like Chelsea Manning and Edward Snowden. He was recognized with awards such as the Right Livelihood Award and the Olof Palme Prize for his moral courage.

Maureen Reagan was an American political activist known for her work in advocacy and public service. She served as the National Co-Chair of the Republican National Committee and was a prominent voice on healthcare policy and women's issues. Maureen was also involved in various organizations focused on cancer awareness and treatment. Her dedication to public service and her passion for political activism left a lasting impact on those she worked with and the causes she championed.

Mary McLeod Bethune was a prominent American educator, philanthropist, humanitarian, womanist, and civil rights activist. She founded the National Council of Negro Women and various other organizations advocating for African American women. Bethune established a private school for African-American students, which later evolved into Bethune-Cookman University. She played a significant role in the creation of the United Nations charter, held leadership positions in various organizations, and worked closely with President Franklin D. Roosevelt to address issues affecting African Americans. Bethune was a prolific writer and received numerous honors for her contributions to society.

Claire Wineland was an American activist, author, speaker, and social media personality known for her work supporting children and families affected by cystic fibrosis (CF). Through her non-profit organization, Claire's Place Foundation, she provided valuable assistance to those impacted by the disease. Wineland co-authored the book "Every Breath I Take, Surviving and Thriving with Cystic Fibrosis," which was published in 2012. Her dedication to raising awareness about CF and her advocacy efforts made a significant impact in the healthcare community.

Victoria Woodhull was an American leader of the women's suffrage movement, a proponent of women's rights and labor reforms. She advocated for "free love," promoting the freedom to marry, divorce, and bear children without societal or governmental constraints. Woodhull made fortunes as a magnetic healer and in the spiritualist movement. She co-founded a brokerage firm on Wall Street with her sister, becoming one of the first women to do so. Woodhull also co-founded a newspaper and ran for president in 1872, supporting women's suffrage and equal rights.

Jane Jacobs was an influential American-Canadian journalist, author, theorist, and activist known for her groundbreaking work in urban studies, sociology, and economics. Her book, The Death and Life of Great American Cities, challenged traditional urban planning practices and advocated for the preservation of neighborhoods. Jacobs organized grassroots movements to protect communities from destructive redevelopment projects and was a key figure in halting major expressway developments in both New York City and Toronto. Despite facing criticism for her lack of formal credentials, her ideas have since been recognized and embraced by urban planning professionals worldwide.

Lorraine Vivian Hansberry was an American playwright and writer known for her groundbreaking work in the theater world. She made history as the first African-American female author to have a play performed on Broadway with her renowned work, A Raisin in the Sun. Throughout her career, she addressed important societal issues such as racial segregation and the struggles faced by black Americans, while also advocating for African liberation. Hansberry's contributions to the arts continue to inspire and resonate with audiences worldwide.

Robert George Seale is an American political activist and author known for co-founding the Black Panther Party with Huey P. Newton. The Party aimed to combat police brutality in Black communities. Seale faced conspiracy charges related to anti-Vietnam War protests during the 1968 Democratic National Convention. He was severely treated during the trial but was eventually not convicted. Seale was also involved in the New Haven Black Panther trials but was not found guilty. He has authored several books detailing his experiences with the Black Panther Party.

Barbara Pierce Bush is an American activist known for co-founding and chairing the board of the nonprofit organization Global Health Corps. She has made significant contributions to promoting global health initiatives through her work with the organization. Bush's professional life is characterized by her dedication to philanthropy and advocacy for healthcare access and equity. Her leadership in Global Health Corps has helped drive positive change in communities around the world, making a lasting impact on public health issues.

Adam Clayton Powell Jr. was a prominent American Baptist pastor and politician who served as a U.S. Representative for Harlem, New York, from 1945 to 1971. He was the first African American elected to Congress from New York and the Northeast. Powell was a strong advocate for civil rights and social issues, advocating for support to emerging nations in Africa and Asia. He became chairman of the Education and Labor Committee in 1961, where he played a key role in passing significant legislation under Presidents Kennedy and Johnson. Despite facing corruption allegations, Powell successfully regained his seat in Congress through a Supreme Court ruling in 1969 before ultimately retiring from electoral politics in 1970.

Dashiell Hammett was an influential American writer known for his hard-boiled detective novels and short stories. He also worked as a screenwriter and was involved in political activism. His notable characters include Sam Spade, Nick and Nora Charles, The Continental Op, and Secret Agent X-9. Hammett is considered one of the greatest mystery writers, with several of his works featured on lists of top crime and mystery novels. His writing style and characters have had a lasting impact on literature and film, particularly in the detective fiction and film noir genres.

Alexandra Paul is an American actress known for her diverse career in both film and television. She initially gained recognition for her role in John Carpenter's horror film Christine in 1983, which led to subsequent prominent roles in various films including Just the Way You Are, American Flyers, 8 Million Ways to Die, and Dragnet. However, she is best known for her portrayal of Lt. Stephanie Holden in the popular television series Baywatch from 1992 to 1997. With over 100 performances in movies and TV shows, Alexandra Paul has established herself as a versatile and accomplished actress in the entertainment industry.

Johnnie Cochran was a prominent American attorney known for his involvement in civil rights and police brutality cases over his 38-year career. His courtroom skills were widely recognized, particularly during his leadership of the "Dream Team" in O.J. Simpson's murder trial. Cochran represented a diverse range of high-profile clients, including Sean Combs, Michael Jackson, Tupac Shakur, and Snoop Dogg. He also advocated for individuals such as Stanley Tookie Williams, Geronimo Pratt, and Reginald Oliver Denny. Cochran's legal expertise and dedication to justice left a lasting impact on the legal profession.

Richard Stallman is an American free software movement activist and programmer known for his advocacy of software freedom. He launched the GNU Project in 1983 to develop a Unix-like operating system composed entirely of free software, leading to the free software movement. Stallman developed key software like the GNU Compiler Collection, GNU Debugger, and GNU Emacs. He is the pioneer of copyleft and authored the widely used GNU General Public License. Stallman co-founded the League for Programming Freedom and has been a vocal advocate against software patents and digital rights management.

Theresa Saldana was a versatile American actress, activist, and writer known for her impactful contributions to film and television. She garnered critical acclaim for her role as Rachel Scali in the TV series The Commish, earning a Golden Globe nomination. Saldana's impressive filmography includes roles in iconic films like Raging Bull and I Wanna Hold Your Hand. Additionally, she became a prominent advocate for victims of stalking following a harrowing personal experience, using her platform to raise public awareness on the issue.

Denise Nicholas is an accomplished American actress known for her roles as Liz McIntyre in the ABC series Room 222 and as Councilwoman Harriet DeLong in the NBC/CBS series In the Heat of the Night. Her portrayal of a high-school guidance counselor in Room 222 and a councilwoman in In the Heat of the Night showcased her versatility and talent as an actress. Nicholas' performances have earned her recognition in the industry and a place in the hearts of audiences who appreciate her skillful portrayal of complex and engaging characters.

William Lloyd Garrison was an American abolitionist, journalist, and social reformer known for founding and publishing the anti-slavery newspaper The Liberator. He promoted immediate and uncompensated emancipation of slaves, co-founded the American Anti-Slavery Society, and advocated for non-violent resistance against evil. Garrison was a typesetter, skilled in setting his editorials in type without writing them first. Despite facing threats and opposition, he became a leading advocate for women's rights and later played a significant role in the women's suffrage movement in the 1870s.

Annie Glenn was a prominent American advocate for individuals with disabilities and communication disorders. Overcoming her own struggles with stuttering, she dedicated her life to raising awareness and providing support to those facing similar challenges. Her efforts focused on empowering both children and adults with disabilities, highlighting the importance of understanding and acceptance in society. Through her advocacy work, Glenn made significant contributions to promoting inclusivity and breaking down barriers for individuals with disabilities, leaving a lasting impact on the community.

Chris Burke is an American actor who gained recognition for his portrayal of Charles "Corky" Thatcher on the TV show Life Goes On. His character, Corky, resonated with audiences for breaking barriers as a person with Down syndrome. Burke's performance was praised for its authenticity and emotional depth, earning him critical acclaim. Beyond his iconic role on Life Goes On, Burke has also made appearances in various other television shows and movies, showcasing his talent and versatility as an actor.

James Meredith is an American civil rights activist, writer, political adviser, and United States Air Force veteran. In 1962, he became the first African-American student admitted to the racially segregated University of Mississippi, sparking a pivotal moment in the civil rights movement. He organized the March Against Fear in 1966 to combat racism in the South and promote voter registration. Throughout his life, Meredith continued to advocate for civil rights and inspire others through his activism and leadership.

Betty Shabazz was an American educator and civil rights advocate. She began her professional career as a nurse in New York City before marrying Malcolm X. Together, they left the Nation of Islam in 1964. After Malcolm X's assassination, Shabazz raised their six daughters as a widow. She pursued higher education and worked at Medgar Evers College in Brooklyn, New York. Shabazz's dedication to education and civil rights continued throughout her life, leaving a lasting impact on her community.

Jacob Riis was a Danish-American social reformer, journalist, and photographer who played a significant role in urban reform in the US in the early 20th century. Known for his muck-raking journalism, he used his talents to shed light on the impoverished residents of New York City. Riis advocated for the construction of model tenements and worked closely with humanitarian Lawrence Veiller to improve living conditions for the poor. He was an early adopter of casual photography and flash techniques, aiming to raise awareness and spark change through his powerful images and writings.

Paul Petersen is an American actor, singer, novelist, and activist known for his work across various entertainment mediums. Rising to fame in the 1950s as Jeff Stone on The Donna Reed Show, he later ventured into a singing career during the 1960s. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Petersen maintained a presence in the industry with roles in television shows like Matt Houston and films such as Mommy's Day. Additionally, he founded the organization A Minor Consideration in 1990 to advocate for the well-being of child stars and other young performers.

Mimi Kennedy is an American actress, author, and activist known for her roles in television sitcoms. She gained recognition for her performances in sitcoms such as Homefront, Dharma & Greg, and Mom. Kennedy also received acclaim for her roles in films like Pump Up the Volume, Erin Brockovich, In the Loop, Due Date, Midnight in Paris, and The Five-Year Engagement. With a diverse portfolio spanning both television and film, Kennedy has showcased her talent and versatility as an actress in various comedic and dramatic roles.

Emma Goldman was a prominent anarchist revolutionary, political activist, and writer who played a key role in shaping anarchist political philosophy in North America and Europe during the first half of the 20th century. She was a renowned lecturer on anarchist philosophy, women's rights, and social issues, attracting large crowds with her speeches. Goldman founded the anarchist journal Mother Earth, wrote an autobiography called "Living My Life," and supported the anarchist revolution in Spain during the Spanish Civil War. She was known for her advocacy of various social and political causes, including freedom of speech, anti-militarism, and gender politics within anarchism.

Ron Silver was a versatile American actor, director, producer, radio host, and activist. Known for his compelling portrayals of real-life figures such as Henry Kissinger, Alan Dershowitz, and Angelo Dundee, he garnered critical acclaim throughout his career. Silver's talent earned him a Tony Award for Best Actor in 1988 for his role in Speed-the-Plow, a sharp critique of the American film industry. Additionally, his performance as political strategist Bruno Gianelli in The West Wing earned him an Emmy nomination, showcasing his range and skill as a performer.

Billy Barty was an American actor known for his work in film and television. Standing at 3 feet 9 inches tall due to dwarfism, he often played comedic roles opposite taller actors. He specialized in outspoken and wisecracking characters, gaining popularity for his unique performances. In the 1950s, Barty transitioned to television, appearing in various shows, including the Spike Jones ensemble. He later found success in children's TV programs produced by Sid and Marty Krofft. Barty also made significant contributions as an activist, founding the Little People of America organization in 1957.

Zelda Rubinstein was an American actress known for her iconic role as Tangina Barrons in the Poltergeist film series. She also had a recurring role on the TV series Picket Fences and guest appearances on Poltergeist: The Legacy. Rubinstein was recognized for her work as an activist for little people and her early involvement in the fight against HIV/AIDS. Additionally, she lent her voice to the Skittles candies ad campaign, showcasing her diverse talents and contributions to both the entertainment industry and social causes.

Jeannette Rankin was a pioneering American politician and women's rights advocate, known for being the first woman to hold federal office in the United States. Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives as a Republican from Montana in 1916 and again in 1940, she was a lifelong pacifist who opposed U.S. military interventions in both World Wars. A suffragist, Rankin played a key role in securing voting rights for women nationwide and championed various women's rights and civil rights causes throughout her six-decade career.

Wilson Cruz is an accomplished American actor recognized for his memorable roles in popular TV series. He gained prominence for portraying Rickie Vasquez in the iconic show "My So-Called Life" and later played Dr. Hugh Culber in "Star Trek: Discovery". Cruz's talent also shone through in his recurring role as Junito in "Noah's Arc". As a gay man of Afro-Puerto Rican descent, he has been a dedicated advocate for LGBTQ+ youth, particularly those from marginalized communities, making a significant impact beyond his acting career.

Mamie Elizabeth Till-Mobley was an American educator and activist known for her prominent role in the Civil Rights Movement. Following the tragic murder of her son Emmett Till, she became a fierce advocate for justice and racial equality. She gained recognition for her courageous decision to have Emmett's casket left open during his funeral, exposing the brutality of his death to the world. Mamie Till's activism and dedication to fighting against racial injustice left a lasting impact on the civil rights movement.

Dolores Huerta is an American labor leader and civil rights activist known for co-founding the United Farm Workers Association with Cesar Chavez. She played a key role in organizing the Delano grape strike in 1965 and negotiating a workers' contract afterward. Huerta has received several awards for her advocacy work, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom. She coined the phrase "Sí, se puede" ("Yes, you can") and was the first Latina inducted into the National Women's Hall of Fame. Huerta is a prominent figure in the Latino community and has been honored with her own day in California.

T. Boone Pickens Jr. was a prominent American business magnate and financier known for chairing the hedge fund BP Capital Management. He gained recognition as a takeover operator and corporate raider in the 1980s. With a net worth of $500 million as of November 2016, Pickens made significant contributions to the financial sector. Throughout his professional life, he demonstrated expertise in finance and strategic investments, leaving a lasting impact on the business world with his successful ventures and entrepreneurial spirit.

Viola Liuzzo was an American civil rights activist known for her dedication to the fight for voting rights and racial equality. She bravely traveled to Alabama in 1965 to support the Selma to Montgomery march. Tragically, she was killed by Ku Klux Klan members while driving activists. Despite false accusations made against her, the true story of her sacrifice and courage came to light. Her legacy lives on through posthumous honors and a scholarship in her name, commemorating her unwavering commitment to justice and equality.

Fannie Lou Hamer was a prominent American voting and women's rights activist, community organizer, and civil rights leader. She played a crucial role in the civil rights movement by serving as the vice-chair of the Freedom Democratic Party and organizing Mississippi's Freedom Summer with the SNCC. Hamer co-founded the National Women's Political Caucus and dedicated herself to promoting voter registration and political participation among African-Americans. Despite facing threats and violence, she remained resilient and worked tirelessly to advance civil rights and empower disenfranchised communities.