JOSEPHINE BAKER 

Josephine Baker

Josephine Baker, an American dancer, singer, actress, and civil rights activist, was born on June 3, 1906 in St. Louis, Missouri. Growing up, she always admired dancing and music. However, school always came as a struggle for Josephine. So she dropped out and became a maid. But shortly after, she worked to get back on track, returning to school to pursue her education. Everything was looking up for her until she experienced the East St. Louis race riot of 1917. This resulted in her running away from home. After falling victim to so many systemic injustices, Baker finally stumbled into a local vaudeville house with individuals dancing everywhere. Intriguing Baker, she had begun to honor the art of dancing, joining a show that was touring. People admired her talent and started calling her the nickname of “Black Pearl.” She inspired everyone and eventually won the awards of Croix de Guerre, and Legion of Honour.

Josephine demonstrated the effects of pursuing what makes you happy. She was an excellent dancer, but she also was an inspiring fighter. When Josephine moved to the U.S. to pursue her dancing career, she fell victim to many racist acts; However, she didn’t let this stop her from reaching her goals. Her attempts to fight back against racism eventually lead to an eviction from her chateau which was auctioned off to pay off debts. Josephine’s last attempt at a comeback was a success and her performance was inspiring and hopeful to many. Sadly this was her last performance as two days after the performance the legend Josephine Baker died of a stroke in Paris.

Josephine Baker’s resiliency proves to all the possibility of fighting back against racism. She contributes talent, bravery, and hope not only to the field of dance but to all people in the world. Baker encourages us to be brave, carrying out dreams that could one day become a reality. 

Lorenzo '24

Sources:

"Josephine Baker Biography: Singer, Civil Rights Activist, Dancer." Biography.com

"Josephine Baker: French Entertainer." Encyclopedia Britannica

"Josephine Baker Biography." Notablebiographies.com

"Dancer, Singer, Activist, Spy: The Legacy of Josephine Baker." Anothermag.com