NPR's Book of the Day 'Trailblazer' is a memoir by Carol Moseley Braun, first Black woman elected to Senate
Jul 17, 2025
Carol Moseley Braun shares her journey as the first Black woman elected to the U.S. Senate in her memoir. She discusses the immense pressures and challenges faced in a male-dominated political landscape. The conversation highlights her resilience in overcoming prejudice and skepticism. Personal anecdotes reveal the emotional cost of breaking barriers while advocating for future generations. Through her story, she emphasizes the importance of perseverance and activism in the pursuit of equality.
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Political Start Sparked by Protest
- Carol Moseley Braun's political journey began with joining a protest about birds in her neighborhood.
- Despite skepticism from pundits about her electability, she decided to run for state representative and won.
Bias in Everyday Life
- Carol Moseley Braun experienced racial and gender bias even in everyday situations like trying to hail a taxi.
- A police officer mistakenly thought she was a prostitute just because she was a Black woman standing on a downtown corner.
First Day Senate Office Challenge
- On her first day at the Senate, a Capitol Police officer initially refused to let Carol Moseley Braun enter her own office.
- Another officer intervened upon recognizing her as the new senator from Illinois, allowing her access.