It all started with a dream, and a lot has changed since Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s inspirational speech. Progress has been made and while there continues to be room for improvement, the dream is becoming a reality more and more each day. And, it’s happening through current influential African-American leaders.
In this month’s celebration of Black History, it’s hard to look at all the incredible people who made a difference and include only a few in a list like this. Certainly there are many other individuals who are equally worthy. These, however, are a few pioneers. They have stood out above others as people who are universal role models. They have surpassed limits and barriers of race, which one could view as the evidence of the improvements made from the past, and the testament of the hope of a bright tomorrow.
Lee Daniels
When former president Bill Clinton makes it a point to persuade you to produce public service announcements to motivate young people to vote, you know you have some influence. As a director and a producer, Daniels has struck a chord with young people and urban culture alike by portraying stories that are darker and closer to real life than most storytellers are willing to attempt.
It’s not just young people or African-Americans who have noticed, though. Just ask Halle Berry, who won an Oscar for Best Actress for her starring role in the 2001 film, “Monster’s Ball,” produced by Daniels. She became the first African-American woman to do so. You can also ask Mo’Nique, who was awarded an Oscar, for her supporting role in the 2009 film, “Precious,” which Daniels directed. These awards and recognition have elevated Daniel’s reputation in the film industry as one of the most talented and most influential directors of the time.
Beyoncé Knowles
It’s no gimmick. Beyoncé has real talent. Beyoncé has the kind of talent that disallows you from writing her off because she’s too popular, her songs are played too much on the radio, or she’s just another pop star. Beyoncé can sing. She can dance. She can do hip-hop, R&B, soul, gospel, and pop. She can act. She can market herself. She is drop-dead gorgeous. She is married to a living rap legend. She’s a fashion designer — did I forget anything? If there’s anything Beyoncé can’t do, I don’t think she’s met that obstacle yet. She’s a powerful woman. Most importantly, though, she’s a classy lady. It was easy to forget that during the whole VMA fiasco ― in which Kanye West, in uniquely disgruntled fashion, publicly humiliated Taylor Swift on Beyonce’s behalf, that she came out on top. It is this kind of attitude, as well as her remarkable professional achievements, which make her an excellent role model.
LeBron James
It’s hard to believe that LeBron James, who just over a year ago was the most beloved face of the NBA, is now the most hated man in the same league. Does this make any sense?
It certainly does when you observe what society has become and what we place value on. LeBron James walked away from a lot of money (though he’s in no danger of claiming bankruptcy anytime soon), tons more glory, the love of many more adoring fans, possible MVP awards ― basically, the entire world on a stick. He did it for a shot at winning and, perhaps, friendship — and most of America hates him for it.
Instead of being hated, James should be even more admired for setting an example to up-and-coming athletes and little kids with athletic dreams that, at the end of the day, it’s not about the money. James left a situation where, as we can see now by the Cavaliers atrocious record, he was carrying an entire organization on his back, for an opportunity to join two friends who would gladly help him carry the load.
Unselfishness, sacrifice, hum-ility — what’s not to like? Raised by a single mother in poverty, James came from nothing to become the most exciting person basketball has seen since Michael Jordan. He’s a symbol of hard-work, as well as an outstanding father, a good teammate, and at only 25-years-old, a leader in his sport. Again — What’s not to like?
Oprah Winfrey
To say that Oprah has overcome adversity is like saying that Charlie Sheen has some issues — it’s an understatement. She experienced severe poverty, sexual, physical and verbal abuse, and the death of two siblings, and her child when she was 14. She has been ranked the richest African-American of the 20th century and was the first African-American billionaire. If that doesn’t inspire you I don’t know what will. Oprah Winfrey’s fortitude and perseverance make her one of the personalities at the forefront of defining the American Dream. Then there are all the things she does to give back. The list of philanthropic projects she has been involved in over the years is extensive. In 2005, she became the first African-American listed by Business Week as one of America’s 50 most generous philanthropists. At the time it was estimated that she contributed more than $300 million dollars. She continues to dedicate her life to giving back and is an inspiration for her personal triumphs as well as for her philanthropic efforts.
Spike Lee
You might know Spike Lee as that guy who taunts Kobe Bryant and many other great basketball players at Knicks games. However, in his career, Lee has shed light on important issues in America like race relations, the media, crime, poverty, and most recently, political issues, such as, the controversy of the political response to the disaster that Hurricane Katrina left in New Orleans. Lee’s impact is not felt as heavily as it was when the filmmaker first started but its ripples can be seen everywhere. His films have always had a powerful voice, even when that voice was a solitary one yelling from the darkness. Lee got people’s attention and forced them to look and talk about issues, even if it was only because they disagreed with him. He is small in stature, but the shadow of his heart and his conviction might lead you to think he is a giant. Spike Lee sticks to his principals and beliefs and never compromises them for anything. He does things his way, and many people today have him to thank when they look around and realize the impact that he had on society and American culture.
These leaders are so, not because they are rich, but because their successes and their characters are sources of inspiration that transcends race and ethnicity, which allow them to be seen as heroes and exemplary individuals to everyone.
