Serena Williams and Ruby Bridges to enter National Women’s HOF

Serena Williams and Ruby Bridges have been announced as the latest inductees into the National Women’s Hall of Fame, to be honored during Women’s History Month in March next year. This news adds to the already impressive list of women to be celebrated by the hall (source).

“The 2024 inductee class has broken barriers, challenged the status quo, and left an impact on history,” the Hall of Fame stated in its announcement.

Originally, eight women were announced in the spring, but due to changes in the date and location of the ceremony, Serena Williams and Ruby Bridges became available for induction, according to a spokesman.

Williams, renowned for her 23 Grand Slam titles and record-breaking tenure as the No. 1 ranked tennis player, retired from the sport last year. She also recently received the Fashion Icon award (source).

Bridges made history as a 6-year-old by desegregating schools in New Orleans in 1960, an event famously captured in Norman Rockwell’s painting, “The Problem We All Live With”. Her foundation, established 24 years ago, aims to promote tolerance and change through education.

Among the other honorees are Peggy McIntosh, Kimberlé Crenshaw, Judith Plaskow, Loretta Ross, Allucquére Rosanne “Sandy” Stone, Dr. Patricia Bath, Dr. Anna Wessels Williams, and Elouise Pepion Cobell, who will all be recognized posthumously for their contributions in various fields.

The induction ceremony for the 2024 class will be broadcast nationally from New York City, a departure from the previous ceremonies held in Seneca Falls. “The 2024 class of inductees are scientists, activists, performers, and athletes who are the changemakers of today and inspiration for the women of tomorrow,” stated Jennifer Gabriel, the Hall of Fame’s chief executive.

Nominations for the Hall of Fame are open to the public and then reviewed by an expert selection committee.