History of Feminism
Related: About this forumThe Vaudeville Actress Who Refused To Be A Stereotype
Born in New York City on Valentines Day 1880, Aida Overton began her career while still a teenager as a chorus member of Black Pattis Troubadours.
While performing with the group, Aida met her future husband, prominent vaudeville performer George Walker.
Williams and Walker were one of the few all-black acts allowed to perform on white vaudeville stages
Tragically, Aida died suddenly on October 1, 1914, at age 34, from kidney failure.
While Aidas life was cut short, she left behind a important legacy.
As Ill Keep You Posted notes:
[Aida] was renowned in her own community as an activist for both black entertainment and womens equality. Aida opened the doors for the show business daughters
like Lottie Gee, Florence Mills, Ethel Waters and even Josephine Baker.
http://www.buzzfeed.com/briangalindo/the-vaudeville-actress-who-refused-to-be-a-stereotype
MADem
(135,425 posts)grilled onions
(1,957 posts)Doing all she did when she was against the tide of racism as well as the bigots of feminism is an amazing thing. Imagine what she could have accomplished if she had been given a clear "runway" in life. To top that off for her to have to die at such an early age just adds to the tragedy.
GeoWilliam750
(2,522 posts)Reading the history of the black vaudeville performers, it is shocking how many died so much before their time, and whilst minority and women's rights have come a long way, there is so very much more to go.
madaboutharry
(40,245 posts)She seems to have been a beautiful person on the inside as well. I am now interested in knowing more about her.
nomorenomore08
(13,324 posts)Not that things are anywhere near great now, but compared to the turn of the 20th Century, I would have to figure most people's lives are measurably better.