(Democratic National Convention via AP)DETROIT When Hazel Dukes stepped onto the Democratic National Convention stage in 1972 to second Shirley Chisholms presidential nomination, it amounted to more than history. She will be the first Black woman and first Asian American woman named to a major party presidential ticket. But historically, Black women have fought the racism and sexism that prevented them from having prominent roles within the movements for womens suffrage and civil rights. That reminder is especially clear as America marks the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment, which gave women the right to vote a right that most Black women weren't afforded until much later. And while inroads have been made, Black women remain significantly underrepresented in politics.

Black women in particular helped rescue Biden's campaign earlier this year by delivering a resounding victory in the South Carolina primary, powering him to the Democratic nomination. That will hinge on Black voters in battleground states like Michigan to turn out in force in November. But for Black women, the freedom to vote didnt come until much later, part of a historical pattern of being denied justice offered to others. It took an additional 45 years of organizing to secure the rights to vote for Black women and other women of color, Ufot said. It affirms Black women and all we did for this country.