Former First Daughter Chelsea Clinton will soon publish a picture book titled She Persisted, which “celebrates strong, inspirational women who have embodied the spirit of persistence throughout American history,” Bustle reports.
Source: Huffington Post
The book takes its title from the words of Senate majority leader Mitch McConnell, who in February prevented Senator Elizabeth Warren from reading a letter by Coretta Scott King condemning Jeff Sessions. Describing the incident, McConnell explained, “She was warned. She was given an explanation. Nevertheless, she persisted.” This final sentence instantly took on a life of its own and has since been used as a rallying cry among women organizing against the Trump administration. It can now be found on a variety of merchandise, and many women are tattooing the phrase on their bodies.
She Persisted will feature thirteen American women who have a place in history as feminists and activists: Harriet Tubman, Helen Keller, Maria Tallchief, Nellie Bly, Claudette Colvin, Clara Lemlich, Margaret Chase Smith, Ruby Bridges, Sally Ride, Oprah Winfrey, Florence Griffith Joyner, Sonia Sotomayor, and one as-yet-unnamed woman (perhaps a recent presidential candidate).
Clinton said of the project, “I wrote this book for everyone who’s ever wanted to speak up but has been told to quiet down—for everyone who’s ever been made to feel less than. The thirteen women in She Persisted all overcame adversity to help shape our country—sometimes through speaking out, sometimes by staying seated, sometimes by captivating an audience. With this book, I want to send a message to young readers around the country—and the world—that persistence is power.”
The picture book will feature illustrations by children’s author Alexandra Boiger.
She Persisted will be available May 30th. Preorder is already available.
YouTube Channel: Late Night with Seth Meyers
Featured image via Politico
h/t Bustle
