Missing Figures

Stories of power, perseverance, and possibility are not always positive. Charles Curtis, a member of the Kaw nation, was the first person of color elected Vice President of the United States. He was a complicated man and perhaps a cautionary tale. Join us as we discuss his life. What does it mean to be the only person from a minority group to reach the highest levels of society? What choices might one make because of privilege and access to power?

The world still tries to make minorities fit the mold created by the dominant culture. Zitkala Sa, indigenous writer, musician, composer, educator, and activist countered an education meant to suppress her culture by preserving and amplifying it. Join us as we talk about her incredible life!

"Power concedes nothing without a demand." How do you make society better through peaceful protests? By having a plan! Pacifist and civil rights organizer, Bayard Rustin, was the 'unseen' architect of the most iconic US protest movements. Geek out with us as we discuss the many ways he helped the US become a more perfect union, and discuss the many things that still need to be done.

Rock and Roll is one of America's greatest exports. Music legend Sister Rosetta Tharpe is credited among some of Rock's most iconic stars for creating the sound. So why don't we call her the King of Rock and Roll?
Join us as we talk about the booming voice and rapid guitar lick of the larger than life woman who made it all possible.

Sometimes the best way to deal with today's world is to look to the future. Octavia Butler created worlds and stories rooted in the struggles we still face today, climate change, racism, and sexism. But her powerful, hopeful approach did what all the best science fiction does– make us quest for a better tomorrow.