#TellHerStory this Black History Month

October is fast approaching and for Black History Month this year I want to do something different.

Despite the many brilliant sheroes who feature on the blog, not enough of them are women of colour. If women’s histories are neglected, then black women’s histories are neglected even more so. I want to correct the imbalance so I’m putting out a call to #TellHerStory during Black History month this year.

I’d like to share the stories of as many black sheroes as possible during Black History Month, but I can only do that with your help!

Here’s how you can join in:

1. Pick a black shero from history you think should have their story told
2. Check they’re not already featured on the blog!
3. Write a short profile about them (500-600 words)
4. Send it to sheroesofhistory@gmail.com
5. Spread the word – get others to join in: Tweet @SheroesHistory with the hashtag #TellHerStory

Annie Turnbo Malone

Annie Turnbo Malone was one of the first self-made African-American millionaires. She used her success to bring others with her, creating jobs for thousands of other women like her and using her millions to support good causes.

Annie was born in southern Illinois in 1869. She was the daughter of two escaped slaves and the 10th of 11 children. When she was still young her parents both died, orphaning Annie (yes she’s the other ‘little orphan Annie’!) She moved to live with her older sister. Although she enjoyed going to school, particularly her chemistry lessons, poor health meant that she was very rarely able to attend.