Celebrating Black History Month!

Black history is American history, and it’s also a history of resilience in the face of environmental injustice. From the fight for clean air and water to the struggle against toxic pollution in Black communities, the push for environmental justice is deeply tied to racial justice. This Black History Month, we recognize the ongoing fight for a healthier, more just world for all. 

We are highlighting the following historical figures for their roles as leaders and trailblazers from CT:

• ​Denise Lynn Nappier
• James Mars
• Ruth Alice Lucas
• Ann Lane Perry
• Ebeneezer Bassett
• Constance Baker Motely
• John "Schoolboy" Taylor
• Charles Ethan Porter
• Gwen Reed
• Edward Bouche 

Denise Lynn Nappier A proud Connecticut native, Denise Lynn Nappier made history as the first African American woman elected to statewide office in Connecticut and the first Black woman in the nation to serve as a state treasurer. Serving from 1999 to 2019, she championed responsible investment practices, corporate governance reforms, and initiatives that directly benefited Connecticut’s working families and underrepresented communities. Her leadership not only transformed state policies but also set a precedent for inclusive governance across Connecticut.

James Mars Born into slavery in Connecticut in the late 18th century, James Mars overcame his early hardships to become a leading abolitionist and chronicler of his experiences. His memoir, Life of James Mars, A Slave Born and Sold in Connecticut, offers a rare firsthand account of Northern slavery and resistance. By educating local communities and advocating for African American rights, Mars helped shape the historical narrative of Connecticut’s fight for freedom and equality.

Ruth Alice Lucas Raised in Connecticut, Ruth Alice Lucas became the first African American woman to achieve the rank of full colonel in the U.S. Air Force. Her groundbreaking career inspired many within Connecticut’s military and broader communities. Beyond her service, Lucas has been celebrated locally for breaking barriers in a traditionally male-dominated field and for serving as a role model to young Connecticut residents aspiring to careers in public service and leadership.

Ann Lane Petry A celebrated writer with deep Connecticut ties, Ann Lane Petry became the first African American woman to sell over a million copies of a novel. While her work, notably The Street (1946), addressed issues of racism, gender, and economic inequality across America, her insights were also informed by her experiences in Connecticut. Petry’s literary success and social commentary have left an enduring impact on Connecticut’s cultural and intellectual landscape, inspiring local writers and activists alike.

Ebenezer Bassett A native of Connecticut, Ebenezer Bassett broke new ground as the first African American diplomat in U.S. history when he was appointed ambassador to Haiti in 1869. His early work as an educator and abolitionist was deeply rooted in his commitment to improving life in Connecticut. Bassett’s legacy in Connecticut is remembered for his efforts to promote racial justice and for paving the way for future generations of Black leaders in both diplomacy and education.

Constance Baker Motley Born in New Haven, Connecticut, Constance Baker Motley became a pioneering civil rights lawyer and judge. She played a central role in landmark desegregation cases, including her influential work on Brown v. Board of Education. Her Connecticut upbringing and early legal experiences in the state fueled her determination to fight inequality. Motley’s legacy continues to inspire countless Connecticut residents pursuing careers in law and public service, and her impact is celebrated both locally and nationally.

John "Schoolboy" Taylor A Hartford native, John "Schoolboy" Taylor was a standout baseball player and the first African American to break into the Ivy League sports scene. His athletic achievements opened doors for Black athletes in Connecticut during an era marked by segregation and exclusion. Taylor’s legacy is celebrated in local sports history, and he remains an inspirational figure for young athletes striving for excellence in Connecticut’s competitive sports arenas.
Charles Ethan Porter Born in Hartford, Connecticut, Charles Ethan Porter was one of the few African American painters of the 19th century to gain recognition during his lifetime. Specializing in still-life and landscape paintings, Porter not only overcame racial barriers in the art world but also captured the essence of Connecticut’s natural beauty and everyday life in his work. His contributions to the arts continue to be honored in local museums and galleries, marking him as a significant figure in Connecticut’s cultural history.

Gwen Reed A lifelong resident of Connecticut, Gwen Reed was a passionate community activist, actress, and educator who dedicated herself to advancing literacy and early childhood education in the state. Through her work in local theater and community programs, Reed brought African American stories and voices to the forefront in Connecticut’s cultural scene. Her enduring commitment to education and the arts has left a lasting impact on the state’s communities.
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Edward Bouchet Edward Bouchet, a Connecticut native, became the first African American to earn a Ph.D. in the United States when he completed his doctorate in physics at Yale University in New Haven in 1876. Despite facing significant racial barriers, Bouchet’s career in academia and his dedication to teaching inspired generations of Black scholars within Connecticut. His pioneering achievements in science and education continue to influence the state’s academic community and serve as a beacon of excellence.