A historically motivating film (and book) where people change history despite overwhelming opposition.
The movie follows the lives of soon-to-be famous female African American mathematicians as they strive to fulfill their jobs in a pre-civil rights era where they are expected to fail. The film follows the lives of Kaherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan and Mary Jackson who were key players in navigating launch sequences for the astronauts Nasa sent into space.
The level of precision and accuracy that would be needed to mathematically calculate a safe landing, estimates and all, is astounding. Set in the late 40s – 60s, paramount issues included racism and prejudice. Seeing Hidden Figures gave me refreshed gratitude for the roles I am allowed to play in society.
I would like young African American females and girls in general to see this innovative film and know it is one of countless testaments that they can achieve anything. Literally no obstacle can obstruct their goals, not even the iron fist of racism and discrimination. The positivity of these historical heroines rivals that of any derogatory stereotype stating that they are anything but capable and intellectual strengths crucial to the functioning of society.
The film itself was reworked from Margot Lee Shetterly’s book Hidden Figures. Margot is a alumni of University of Virginia with Virginia presently being her place of residence. She has objectives to research more Black historical figures who would otherwise have stayed hidden and had their contributions concealed.
The illustration in this article was drawn by me.
23rd century news 