Black History Month is a time to remember the struggles and achievements of African Americans. It’s also an opportunity to deepen our understanding of the diverse narratives that have played a pivotal role in history.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – As part of Women’s History Month, News4Jax is highlighting several history-makers with ties to the River City. I spoke with historians about the impact of two women who reached new heights in very different ways. Bessie Coleman was the first African-American woman and first Native-American to hold a pilot license. And often she would wear pants and a hard hat on the job so that she would not stand out as much and be discriminated against,” said Dr. Wayne Wood. Paving the way for generations of women past, present, and future.

The Arlington 20/20 initiative is using public art to breathe new life into Warrington Park, namely with the addition of two new murals, which were dedicated to the community in a ceremony Tuesday. Nico Holderbaum, the artist behind the murals, said the community banded together to create the murals, from friends to volunteers who heard about the effort on social media. “People underestimate the power of public art to elevate and transform communities.”Holderbaum said the murals have two different themes: dream big and fly high. It’s still inspirational for communities to see that someone cares enough to invest beauty and creativity in their neighborhood and that can inspire hope,” Holderbaum said. Hope is the biggest thing I think public art can provide.”To learn more about the Arlington 20/20 initiative, visit the organization’s website.