Dorchester, Roxbury – A vibrant public art project titled “Black Women Lead” has brought to life 212 banners along Blue Hill Avenue in Dorchester and Roxbury, celebrating iconic Black women who have shattered glass ceilings in various fields, marking their place as trailblazers who’ve made a profound impact on their communities. These banners showcase the achievements of Black women who were the first to accomplish remarkable feats, often overlooked in history.
The project spotlights a wide range of Black women, from the literary pioneer Phillis Wheatley to contemporary leaders like U.S. Rep. Ayanna Pressley and Karen Miller, who became Boston’s first Black woman firefighter in 1985. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, these banners serve as a powerful symbol of innovation and uncharted leadership, reaching back as early as the 1700s.
The driving force behind “Black Women Lead” is Ed Gaskin, the executive director of Greater Grove Hall Main Streets, who was inspired to embark on this project after attending an event at the Boston Society of Architects. There, discussions about the link between public art and economic development ignited his passion for exploring the presence of public art in Boston.
Recognizing a stark disparity in the distribution of public art, with a concentration in downtown Boston and near museums, Gaskin set out to address this imbalance by bringing art to nontraditional spaces and public areas. The “Black Women Lead” project aims to honor the legacy and contributions of Black women while enhancing the city’s cultural and artistic landscape.
This initiative not only beautifies the urban environment but also serves as a tribute to the resilience, accomplishments, and lasting impact of Black women throughout Boston’s history, providing a source of inspiration for future generations.
