History is full of hidden figures—brilliant minds who shaped the world but often go unrecognized. This Black History Month, let’s focus on some amazing Black women. Their work has not only changed technology but also made our homes safer.
Imagine being a nurse, working long hours in a neighborhood with a lot of crime. Your only security is a tiny peephole in your door. For Marie Van Brittan Brown, this was her reality in the 1960s. Instead of accepting it, she invented the first home security system.
Using a sliding camera, a two-way microphone, and an emergency button, Brown’s system let people watch and talk to anyone at their door from inside their home. This invention was so groundbreaking; it’s the basis for today’s CCTV systems. It changed how we think about home security and saved lives.
But Brown’s story isn’t the only one. Ada Lovelace, considered the first computer programmer, paved the way for today’s technology. Her work in creating algorithms laid the groundwork for modern tech, including security systems. These women didn’t just innovate; they changed entire industries.
From racial injustice to groundbreaking achievements
The road to success was tough. These women, like many others in history, not only faced the usual challenges of being inventors but also dealt with racial discrimination.
Dr. Shirley Ann Jackson, the first African American woman to earn a doctorate from MIT, made groundbreaking contributions at Bell Laboratories, helping create technologies like caller ID, call waiting, and fiber optic cables. Her story shows how perseverance can lead to major achievements.
Similarly, Fawn Weaver, founder of Uncle Nearest Whiskey, has also advanced smart home security through her business acumen and passion for technology.
How to build on their legacy
What can we learn from these stories? First, don’t wait for the perfect moment—start with what you have. Marie Van Brittan Brown didn’t have fancy tools, just a need and determination to make things safer.
Innovation is about solving real problems. Today’s safety systems were born from a desire to improve life. If you see an issue, think about how creativity or technology could solve it.
Lastly, don’t fear failure. These women faced many challenges, but they kept going. You have the power to make a difference too.
Take inspiration from these women—innovate, create, and believe in your ability to change the world.
Key Takeaways
Black women have made significant contributions to home security and technology, transforming industries and overcoming racial discrimination.
- Impact: The contributions of Black women like Marie Van Brittan Brown and Ada Lovelace have fundamentally changed how we approach home security and technology, setting new standards and saving lives.
- Action: Begin tackling real-world problems using creativity and technology, even when resources are limited, to drive innovation and enhance safety.
- Empowerment: Embrace perseverance and resilience in the face of challenges, trusting in your ability to make a lasting impact and change the world through innovation.
