1910 — Birth of Fannie Lou Hamer, Civil Rights Powerhouse

Fannie Lou Hamer was born on May 24, 1917, in Mississippi and went on to become one of the most influential voices in the American Civil Rights Movement. As co-founder of the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party, she challenged white-dominated political systems and advocated for Black voting rights and economic justice. Her iconic statement—“I’m sick and tired of being sick and tired”—resonates globally among Black activists. Hamer endured violence, poverty, and political intimidation, yet she remained a fearless advocate for justice. Her legacy extends beyond the United States, as she became a symbol of grassroots resistance and dignity across the African diaspora. May 24 is a fitting day to honor her birth and reflect on the enduring power of moral courage, community organizing, and Black womanhood in liberation movements. Hamer’s work laid the foundation for contemporary global social justice movements rooted in racial and gender equity.