When I take a historical look at Black Women in international affairs, I immediately think of outstanding figures such as Patricia Roberts Harris, the first Black female ambassador, and others who followed her including Ambassador Mabel M. Smythe, then later in 1990 Ambassador Aurelia E. Brazeal who became the first African American female Foreign Service Officer (FSO) to be appointed ambassador, three times — a singular honor.

Image Credit: Photo: AFSA / Joaquin Sosa