No. 70: Shirley Graham Du Bois
Episode Transcript
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What if I told you there was a woman who wrote operas, fought for civil rights, and still found time to spar with the FBI? Meet Shirley Graham Du Bois—a writer, activist, and one of the most dynamic figures you’ve never heard of.
Hi, I’m Shae, a PhD Candidate at Harvard, and welcome back to the '100 Historic Black Women You Should Know By Election Day Series.'
Shirley Graham Du Bois wasn’t just the wife of the legendary W.E.B. Du Bois—she was a towering figure in her own right. An accomplished writer, composer, and activist, Shirley’s work transcended boundaries, influencing movements for racial equality, women’s rights, and anti-colonial struggles worldwide.
Born in 1896, Shirley’s early life was marked by an insatiable curiosity and a deep commitment to education. She earned multiple degrees, including a master’s in music from Oberlin College and later became the first African American woman to write and produce an opera. But her talents didn’t stop there. Shirley authored numerous books, plays, and articles, many of which focused on the African American experience, including a highly praised book on Frederick Douglass.
As a passionate advocate for civil rights, Shirley played an instrumental role in the Pan-African movement alongside her husband, W.E.B. Du Bois. Together, they traveled the globe, championing the cause of African independence. But Shirley’s activism wasn’t limited to speeches and books— she became a naturalized citizen of Ghana, where she continued her work for African liberation.
On the personal side, Shirley was a loving partner and mother, but she also faced significant challenges. The FBI kept a close eye on her due to her political activities, and she faced harsh criticism for her leftist views. Yet, she remained undeterred, continuing to fight for justice until her death in 1977.
And here’s a fascinating tidbit: Shirley Graham Du Bois wasn’t just a brilliant writer and activist—she was also a polyglot! She learned multiple languages, including French, German, and Spanish to connect with activists and intellectuals around the world, making her truly a global citizen.
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