Shirley Chisholm made history as the first Black woman to serve in the United States Congress in 1968 and the first Black candidate to seek a major party’s nomination for president in 1972. During her political career, she was a tireless champion of women, minorities, and the poor. She fought for education and wage reform, and touted herself as “the people’s politician.” After her retirement from Congress in 1983, Chisholm lived for several years in Williamsville, New York with her husband, Buffalo native and fellow former New York State Assemblymember Arthur Hardwick. The statue was commissioned using state funding secured by Senator Ryan to honor Chisholm’s legacy and convey that women – particularly Black women – are capable of anything. It was designed by Buffalo artist Julia Bottoms and cast in bronze by Gareth Lichty.

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