Women's History Month: Spotlight on Susan L. Taylor

If you are a Black woman of a "certain age" and you lived through the 1980's, you remember the hair styles, the fashion and the monthly editorial in Essence Magazine. And what made those editorials so memorable were the words of it's Editor-in-Chief, Susan L. Taylor.  Although she had worked for Essence in various capacities prior to that appointment in 1981, that opportunity is where many felt she became the face, voice and vision of Essence. 

She was brilliant, beautiful and bold! I so admired Susan Taylor. I wanted to be Susan Taylor! Her monthly "In the Spirit" message brought the Black woman's narrative to life. She shared exactly what Black women were talking about: Empowerment and Dignity, Social Justice and Action, Black Love and Unity. And when you saw her on television, she would captivate the audience with her poise and her voice. She was and still is such a role model for women of any age.

When I had the opportunity to meet her, I was more than thrilled! Susan Taylor was so urbane and polished. She spoke as if we'd known each other for years. It was like talking to one of your girlfriends over lunch. Such a self-assured, confident woman. At that time she had just written her book "In the Spirit" and when I asked her for her autograph, she didn't hesitate. The book was so transparent. It showed that real life has real struggles, however if we hold on to our faith, we will make it to the other side! I still reference that book to this day when I'll looking for inspiration.

Susan L. Taylor was born in Harlem New York on January 23, 1946.  She is an author, journalist and writer. Susan served as the Editor-in-Chief of Essence Magazine from 1981-2000. American Libraries magazine has called her "The most influential Black woman in journalism today". Various organizations have honored her over the years including the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, New York Women in Communications and the American Society of Magazine Editors. Susan was the first African-American woman to receive the Magazine Publishers of America, Henry Johnson Fisher Award; considered one of the industry's highest honors. 

Although she has had some health battles along the way, even now at the age of 80, Susan continues to have influence. She is the Founder and CEO of the National CARES Mentoring Movement, established to recruit, train and deploy mentors for Black children; with a focus on breaking cycles of inter-generational poverty.

For more information about Susan L. Taylor, please get books at your local library.