Our first figure is the incredible James Baldwin! As a civil rights activist and novelist, he moved our country forward in the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s advocating for equal rights and opportunities among races, as well as lobbying for the liberation of the LGBTQ+ community as an openly gay man.

Lyricist and playwright Howard Ashman inspired the lives of millions through his music, laughter, and genius. From Broadway to the big screen, and back and forth, Ashman created masterpieces like the lyrics for Little Shop of Horrors and The Little Mermaid and launched Walt Disney Studios into arguably its most iconic era.

Gladys Bentley was a phenomenal performer and musician during the Harlem Renaissance at the beginning of the Jazz Age in the mid-1920s. Her work in the arts moved along a movement that led to the culture of music and performance we know today, from pop to rock and roll to drag and much more.

As one the most influential and revered poets of the nineteenth century, Emily Dickinson is a truly revolutionary figure in her craft. With much of her work altered before publication, the real beauty of her writing was hidden away, but we now know the true extraordinary passion behind her words.

The 1970s and 1980s were a period of further exploration of the world beyond our own, headed by some of the most intelligent, brave people. Sally Ride was the first woman in space in 1983, her documentations and discoveries advancing the world of science and math forever.

The Civil War tore the United States apart as over three million soldiers fought to uphold the country's foundations of liberty. The victory of the Union brought new movements to light as all walks of life were affected by the conflict and all types of people, including Albert D. J. Cashier of the 95th Illinois Infantry.