Introduction to Porch Conversation with Josephine, Sheena & Nikita
"Do you remember the 21st day of September? "... When my mother's alarm came on, I knew it was time to get up, divorce my blankets and get ready to go to school. I was actually excited to go to school because it was Women's History Month and we were learning about so many amazing women.This week was extremely special. We were learning about women of color. When I got to school, I was assigned Josephine Yates and Sheena Carbaugh to do a report on! When I researched their backgrounds, I instantly felt connected. I was able to learn about women that looked like me. Both women had so much in common. They were both women that are STEAM educators .I came home and instantly shared their stories with my mom. She had a lot of questions and so did I. I went to my room and started to do my research paper. I started feeling tired but I had just started exploring how Josephine Yates was not only a science teacher but she was also a writer and advocate. She was the first Black Professor at Lincoln University. Next thing I knew, I was at a STEAM Gala. Sheena Carbaugh was the keynote speaker. She also was presenting the STEAM Educator Lifetime Achievement Award to Josephine Yates. I waited patiently until it was over and ran over to them to let them know how inspired I was by them. They both invited me to sit down and talk.
Why did you both choose to be in the science field?
I was led to this work because of women like Mrs. Yates. She was courageous enough to break barriers that paved the way for me to have access to obtain a position like this.
I always liked science since I was a kid. Back in my day, that was not something that women would include in their list of professions. A wife's place was in the home to care for the children. But, my dream of becoming a science teacher never left.
That is awesome.What challenges did you face as a woman, in a field predominantly dominated by males?
It was a challenge for me because of my gender and race.During my time, we were in a constant fight against inequality. I had to be a trendsetter. I was threatened, verbally attacked and discouraged against pursuing anything but science in school by my white educators. It was difficult but necessary!
I agree. This has been a difficult road. Even a hundred years later. I have encountered some of the same things. I haven't been provided a seat at the table at times with white counterparts but I created one.
I promise,only a few more questions. How do you feel that you will continue your legacy?
I can continue by giving back to my community by mentoring the youth and future educators. I can also continue my plight to deconstruct the barriers that have held women of color back, in this profession for years.
I would like to leave a legacy of science crusaders. Those who push back against adversity. I want to impact the lives of my students by encouraging them and supporting them. I would love to see my grandchildren's grandchildren to know that they can be anything they want to be in this world.