Black Women
An escaped slave who became a leading abolitionist and conductor on the Underground Railroad, helping hundreds to freedom.
Harriet Tubman
This man was born in Baton Rouge, and graduated from LSU in 2014.He now plays as a wide receiver in the NFL.
Odell Beckham Jr
The 44th President of the United States, becoming the first Black president in American history.
Barack Obama
Directed by Ava DuVernay, this film chronicles the 1965 Selma to Montgomery voting rights marches led by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. It highlights the struggle for civil rights and features David Oyelowo as King.
Selma
One of the greatest basketball players of all time, this person has also become a philanthropist, activist, and entrepreneur, focusing on education, social justice, and the empowerment of young people.
LeBron James
A journalist, educator, and early leader in the civil rights movement who fought against lynching and for women's suffrage.
Ida B. Wells
After her stunning NCAA performances, she turned professional and quickly became a global sensation. Known for her vibrant personality, colorful hair, and undeniable speed.
Sha’Carri Richardson
The first African American Supreme Court Justice, who fought for civil rights and equal justice under the law.
Thurgood Marshall
Based on the life of Chris Gardner, portrayed by Will Smith, this film tells the story of a homeless salesman who struggles to provide for his son while pursuing a career in finance.
The Pursuit of Happyness
A filmmaker, playwright, and media mogul, this person is known for his trailblazing work in producing content that focuses on the Black experience. He also created his own film studio and has been a major force in Hollywood.
Tyler Perry
A poet, memoirist, and civil rights activist known for I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings.
Maya Angelou
This person played college basketball at LSU, where he was a dominant force. He was a two-time All-American and received the prestigious Adolph Rupp Trophy in 1991 as the best player in the NCAA. During his time at LSU, he led the SEC in scoring, rebounding, and blocks.
Shaquille O'Neal
The first African American to play Major League Baseball, breaking the color barrier in 1947.
Jackie Robinson
A Disney animated film that features Tiana, the first African American Disney princess, set in New Orleans and celebrating Black culture.
The Princess and the Frog
An actress, singer, and producer, this person is known for her roles in Euphoria, Spider-Man, and Dune. She’s a young icon for both her talent and activism.
Zendaya
while her story is one of exploitation, her cells (HeLa cells) revolutionized medical research.
Henrietta Lacks
This person transferred to LSU in 2022 after starting his college football career at Arizona State University, and was a standout ever since.
Jayden Daniels
Best known for his role as T’Challa in Black Panther, his portrayal of historical Black figures such as Jackie Robinson and James Brown made him an iconic actor.
Chadwick Boseman
A comedy about two friends in South Central Los Angeles, starring Ice Cube and Chris Tucker. The film became a cultural touchstone and led to a series of sequels.
Friday
A global music superstar, actress, and entrepreneur, continues to be one of the most influential figures in entertainment. Her work pushes boundaries in music, fashion, and activism.
Beyoncé
The first Black woman elected to the U.S. Congress and the first to run for President in a major party.
Shirley Chisholm
This man was the first black undergraduate to enroll at LSU, he is accredited for integrating LSU.
AP Tureaud Jr
This man is nicknamed “the greatest” because he is ranked as the greatest heavyweight boxer of all time.
Muhammad Ali
Directed by Steve McQueen, this powerful film tells the true story of Solomon Northup, a free Black man who was kidnapped and sold into slavery.
12 Years of Slave
An Academy Award-winning actress, this person is known for her powerful roles in films like Fences and the TV series How to Get Away with Murder. She is an advocate for women and people of color in Hollywood.
Viola Davis