Rebecca Lee Crumpler spent most of her childhood in the 1830s with her aunt in Pennsylvania who cared for the sick. Crumpler often joined her – not knowing at the time that it would shape the trajectory of her life, and others.
Inspired by her aunt, Crumpler chose to pursue medicine. She made it her life’s mission to relieve the suffering of others, and find a way to do so.
Crumpler decided to become a nurse, and attended the New England Female Medical College where she graduated as the first Black woman with an M.D. degree. However, Crumpler wasn’t focused on becoming the first of anything.
Her focus was on alleviating the suffering of Black people. She kept steadfast in her purpose and moved to Richmond, Virginia after the Civil War to help care for freed slaves who were denied medical care.
We can all find ways to use our talents for the betterment of our people and contribute in our own ways toward collective liberation. How does your talent benefit our community?