Ordinary Extraordinary African American Women: The Elders

Ordinary Extraordinary African American Women: The Elders, the most recent project of Oklahoma-based Jewell Jordan Publishing, is an illuminating collection of true and candid narratives celebrating African American women who have lived their 'ordinary' lives in an extraordinary way. Often invisible and certainly undervalued, these women are the backbone of the African American community – as mothers, teachers, artists, businesswomen, trailblazers, activists, wives, friends, and confidants. They have met challenges and overcome obstacles – taxing responsibilities, difficult decisions, glass ceilings, racism and hard times – while continuing to move forward, inspire, and achieve. This edition focuses on our Elders – women over 70 years of age – who share their journeys, reflections, and wisdom derived from a lifetime of challenges, successes, disappointments, and triumphs. Here, we affirm that the stories of Black women are important and must be shared and celebrated.