18 Powerful Quotes from Black Women Everyone Should Hear

February is Black History Month, and to get ready, we have collected some of the most powerful and inspiring quotes from black women. We have quotes from civil rights leaders, writers, singers, actors and more. These powerful women have made their marks on this country, and their insightful words are perfect for sharing.

Black History Month is a reminder that black history is American history. Share these quotes with your children and use them to teach them about the impact of each of these women on American history. Reflect on what Black History Month means, and do more research on how these and other African Americans have helped pave the way for the future of our country.

Remember, too, that Black history isn’t limited to only February. Continue learning all year round!

“If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair.” – Shirley Chisolm, First Black woman elected to Congress

“Whatever we believe about ourselves and our ability comes true for us.” – Susan L. Taylor, Journalist

“Truth is powerful, and it prevails.” – Sojourner Truth, American abolitionist and women’s rights activist

“Don’t let anything stop you. There will be times when you’ll be disappointed, but you can’t stop.” – Sadie T. M. Alexander, Lawyer and first Black woman to receive a Ph.D. in economics in the United States

“I have learned over the years that when one’s mind is made up, this diminishes fear.” – Rosa Parks, Civil Rights pioneer

“Every time you state what you want or believe, you’re the first to hear it. It’s a message to both you and others about what you think is possible. Don’t put a ceiling on yourself.” – Oprah Winfrey, American talk show host, actress, author and philanthropist

“One of the lessons that I grew up with was to always stay true to yourself and never let what somebody else says distract you from your goals. And so when I hear about negative and false attacks, I really don’t invest any energy in them, because I know who I am.” – Michelle Obama, American attorney and author and wife of President Barack Obama

“The need for change bulldozed a road down the center of my mind.” – Maya Angelou, American poet, memoirist and civil rights activist

“Anyone who claims to be a leader must speak like a leader. That means speaking with integrity and truth.” – Kamala Harris, First Black woman Vice-President of the United States

“Never be limited by other people’s limited imaginations.” – Dr. Mae Jemison, First Black female astronaut

“If we accept and acquiesce in the face of discrimination, we accept the responsibility ourselves and allow those responsible to salve their conscience by believing that they have our acceptance and concurrence. We should, therefore, protest openly everything… that smacks of discrimination or slander.” – Mary McLeod Bethune, American educator, stateswoman and civil rights activist

“Hate is too great a burden to bear. It injures the hater more than it injures the hated.” – Coretta Scott King, Civil Rights leader and wife to Martin Luther King, Jr.

“I knew then, and I know now, when it comes to justice, there is no easy way to get it.” – Claudette Colvin, Civil Rights pioneer

“Defining myself, as opposed to being defined by others, is one of the most difficult challenges I face.” – Carol Moseley-Braun, Politician and Lawyer

“When we’re talking about diversity, it’s not a box to check. It is a reality that should be deeply felt and held and valued by all of us.” – Ava DuVernay, American filmmaker

“We all require and want respect, man or woman, black or white. It’s our basic human right.” – Aretha Franklin, American singer

“The most common way people give up their power is by thinking they don’t have any.” – Alice Walker, American novelist

“Where there is love and inspiration, I don’t think you can go wrong.” – Ella Fitzgerald, American Jazz singer

All of these quotes from famous Black women are worth sharing and are meaningful beyond the Black community. Don’t forget to share them and let us know which ones resonate with you the most.

Katie Reed

Katie Reed is a passionate writer and mother of four vivacious boys from Salt Lake City, Utah. Drawing from her own journey through TTC, pregnancy, and the joys of raising children, she offers a wealth of insight into the world of motherhood. Beyond her heartfelt tales, Katie delights her readers with family-friendly recipes, engaging crafts, and a curated library of printables for both kids and adults. When she’s not penning her experiences, you’ll find her crafting memories with her husband and sons—Dexter, Daniel, Chester, and Wilder.