The renaissance in Harlem was a pivotal point in the existence of people of African descent in America. This “New Negro Movement” created spaces and opportunities for black art and intellectualism to thrive. In an era when women’s rights were often put aside, black women artists, writers, musicians and intellectuals were able to strengthen the voice of the black American. In honor of black history month, we want to recognize and celebrate the black women who opened up the doors for other black women to express and create. These are some of the most influential women of the Harlem Renaissance: