Michigan proudly claims a legacy of pioneering Black leaders and innovators. Our state has nurtured civil rights icons, bestselling authors, physicians, star athletes and influential musicians who have each made lasting impacts. Read on to discover more about some of Michigan's extraordinary changemakers and their contributions that continue to inspire future generations.
Alexa Canady is an American neurosurgeon known for breaking barriers and achieving great success in her field.
Born in 1950 in Lansing, Michigan, she became the first African American woman to become a board-certified neurosurgeon in the United States. She attended the University of Michigan for her undergraduate studies and then went on to attend the University of Michigan Medical School. After completing her medical training, she worked in hospitals, focusing on treating children with brain and spinal cord problems.
Throughout her career, she has saved many lives and inspired young people, especially girls and minorities, to follow their dreams in science and medicine.
Stevie Wonder was born in Saginaw, Michigan in 1950 and later moved to Detroit, where he grew up.
Despite being born blind, he developed a remarkable musical talent, mastering instruments like the piano, drums and harmonica. At just 11 years old, he signed with Motown Records, launching his incredible career.
Wonder has received numerous awards, including 25 Grammy Awards, as well as the Presidential Medal of Freedom Award in 2014.
Sojourner Truth, originally named Isabella Baumfree, was born into slavery in Swartekill, New York.
After escaping in 1826, she adopted the name Sojourner Truth and dedicated her life to fighting for abolition, women's rights and social justice. In 1857, she settled in Battle Creek, Michigan, where she continued her advocacy for civil rights and community upliftment until her death in 1883.
Today, her gravesite in Oak Hill Cemetery is marked by a plaque that honors her powerful legacy as a champion for equality and justice. Additionally, a 12-foot sculpture of Truth can be found in Monument Park in Battle Creek, portraying her as she speaks from a lectern.
Rosa Parks helped change history by standing up against unfair laws.
In 1955, in Montgomery, Alabama, she refused to give up her seat on a bus to a white passenger, sparking the Montgomery Bus Boycott, a significant event in the fight for civil rights. Later in life, Rosa Parks moved to Detroit, Michigan, where she lived for many years. In Detroit, she continued to work for equality and justice, supporting many civil rights causes.
Today, the actual bus where Rosa Parks made her brave stand is on display at the Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn, Michigan, where visitors can see it up close and even climb aboard.
Aretha Franklin, known as the "Queen of Soul," was one of the greatest singers in music history.
She was born in Memphis, Tennessee, but grew up in Detroit, Michigan. Aretha started singing in her father's church in Detroit when she was young, which helped her develop her fantastic talent. Later, she became one of the most influential artists in the world.
In 1987, she was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, making history as the first woman ever to receive this honor.
Earvin "Magic" Johnson is a famous basketball player known for his exceptional skills and positive energy on the court.
He was born and raised in Lansing, Michigan, and played basketball at Michigan State University, where he led his team to win a national championship. Later, he joined the NBA and played for the Los Angeles Lakers, where he became a superstar, winning championships and being named MVP multiple times.
Magic is also admired for his work off the court, helping communities and running successful businesses.
Check out this curated list to read about these and more Black Michigan icons.
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