Black History Month is the time of the year to highlight the significant contributions African Americans have made to this country. This history however, in many ways, has been integral to the formation and progression of this country and therefore should be taught and treated the same way as the material that is classified as American history. These important events and people highlighted during the month of February should be seen as “regular programming” and not just as a “special episode.” But until then, it is important to highlight African American figures who have done amazing things throughout their lifetime. One of those people is the late Cicely Tyson, an actress, model, and author. Due to her recent passing at the age of 96 years old, it is fitting to highlight all her accomplishments in the entertainment industry.
Cicely Tyson was born on December 19, 1924. In her early career she started as a model and then eventually started acting. With her chocolate-colored skin, she broke through many racial and colorist barriers within Hollywood. Furthermore, she was adamant about not taking roles that demeaned black people, but took roles that portrayed black women as dynamic, human, and with dignity. Her seven-decade career is filled with many awards, including Emmys, a Tony, an Oscar, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Two days before her passing, Cicely Tyson released a memoir called “Just As I Am: A Memoir,” that chronicles her life and career. Cicely Tyson is a pillar in black Hollywood, but also a significant figure in American entertainment history. She passed on January 28, 2021, but her legacy will go on for years to come. She will be missed.
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