Today In Black History: July 3rd

July 3, 2025

Syvilla Fort, Fontella Bass, and Zelma Watson George were pioneering Black women who significantly impacted American arts and culture during the 20th century. Fort developed the influential Afro-Modern dance technique and taught notable performers despite facing racial barriers to her own ballet education. Bass rose to fame with her hit "Rescue Me" and built a diverse career spanning soul, R&B, and jazz rooted in her gospel background.

Who is affected

Black performing artists who followed the paths these women pioneered
Students of Fort's dance studio, including celebrities like Marlon Brando and James Earl Jones
Audiences and fans of Bass's music across multiple genres
Communities in Cleveland served by George's social work and leadership
Women supported by the Cleveland Job Corps Center that George directed

What action is being taken

No explicit ongoing actions are described in this historical retrospective article

Why it matters

These women overcame significant racial barriers to succeed in their fields
They developed innovative artistic approaches that blended different cultural traditions
Their work expanded representation for Black women in dance, music, opera, and public service
Their legacies continue to inspire others in the arts and public service
They demonstrated versatility by excelling across multiple domains (performance, teaching, activism, politics)

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint