Influential Black Men of the Last Decade

February calls attention to Black History Month. Throughout time there have been many iconic personalities who are very important to remember. These achievements have been among the greatest and no doubt have played key roles in what our country has become. Looking at some of the greatest male figures, it is clear to see why.

Barack Obama was the first African American to hold the presidential office from 2009-2017. Among his greatest achievements were signing landmark legislations, including the Affordable Care Act and Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell Repeal Act of 2010. He  supported same-sex marriage, which was legalized nationwide during his time in office. He was also awarded the 2009 Nobel Peace Prize.

Another iconic figure was Muhammad Ali. Ali, who passed away in 2016, is the only athlete to become a three-time lineal heavyweight champion, winning the coveted title in 1964, 1974 and 1978. Named sports personality of the century by BBC, the greatest athlete of the 20th century by Sports Illustrated and the third greatest athlete of the 20th century by ESPN were among some of his top honors.

Another athlete who has been of great influence is LeBron James. As an athlete, producer and entrepreneur he is making a name for himself in ways people can’t forget. Not only has he set records on the basketball court and named Forbes second-highest paid athlete with his four-time MVP and three-time league champ status, he has also done great things off the court. In July 2008, he opened the I Promise School in his native Akron, Ohio. Each student receives emotional support, free meals, and a bike to get back and forth to school. James has pledged free college tuition for each graduate.

Chance the Rapper is not only a musical genius but has used his voice for society. Some of his most exciting contributions have largely been his social-justice work. He supported the #NoCopAcademy hashtag, a campaign which was led by young black activists who oppose the construction of a new police academy in Chicago. In May 2018 he delivered the commencement speech at the historically black college, Dillard University, offering advice to recent graduates. He also headlined the Special Olympics 50th anniversary concert in July 2018. 

After the tragic loss of Kobe Bryant, it wouldn’t be right to not add him in this article. Bryant was one of the most influential people, not only in basketball but around the world. He joined the NBA straight out of high school and won five NBA championships along with the 2008 MVP Award with the Los Angeles Lakers. He surpassed Michael Jordan for third place on the NBA all-time scoring list in December 2014. He retired in 2016 after scoring 60 points to a sold-out crowd at the Staples Center, leading the Lakers to a win against the Utah Jazz. Among his philanthropic endeavors, Bryant partnered with the non-profit After-School All-Stars as part of the Kobe & Vanessa Bryant Family Foundation. Having four daughters, he was an advocate for not only female sports but female equality. He also started writing children’s books, with his own publishing company, Granity Studios. 

Robert Johnson, Indiana University graduate of ’88 is another man who could be considered one of the most influential African Americans of present day. Starting his own company, ACommon1 Connectivity which connects coaches with passionate leadership, desiring to rise beyond their perceived potential. He has served on numerous boards including National Association of Black Females in Music & Entertainment as Executive Advisor and Indiana University Black Philanthropy Circle as a Charter Member. 

 

Throughout history, Black History Month has been a way to keep in mind and celebrate those who have impacted our society and been unafraid to show who they truly are. We should not only have this way of thinking in February but throughout the entire year. With our ever-changing world, which seems both good and bad, knowing there are people who take a stand and make a positive impact is reassuring. Although there is more room to grow and more progress to be made, the impact of Black History Month stands firm.