“I have created nothing really beautiful, really lasting, but if I can inspire one of these youngsters to develop the talent I know they possess, then my monument will be in their work.” – Augusta Savage
It’s Women’s History Month and during this year’s Harlem Renaissance Centennial, Harlem One Stop is pleased to present a series on the unsung heroes/the midwives of the Harlem Renaissance – the women who “birthed”, guided and influenced the cultural movement. Often, women’s contributions take a backseat to contributions of male counterparts, and women are largely remembered by history in a supporting role. However, women not only played a supporting role, but led much of the movement within their respective spheres, contributing prolifically while simultaneously confronting inequality on multiple fronts. One such figure during the Harlem Renaissance was Augusta Savage, a sculptor, organizer and educator, with a lasting, though threatened legacy to this day.