8 minute lesson
Sally Ride: Pioneer, Astronaut, Icon
Her legacy as a cultural icon for gender equality in science and technology has had a lasting effect.
As the first American woman in space, Ride had to face a lot of questions that, illustrated the need for more women in science. The grace with which she handled the ridiculous and often invasive questions of the press, reminds us all that barriers to equality often stand at the intersection of stereotypes and ignorance.
Why It Matters
Sally Ride is not just an important icon for women. Her achievements as a scientist and an astronaut are important for us all because they opened up the scientific world to anybody who wanted to be a part of it.
When gender is no longer a barrier to entry into any field, we allow for a flow of new ideas and perspectives.
Our backgrounds shape our worldviews. And as the backgrounds of people entering highly influential positions in science, technology, business, politics, you name it, become more diverse, the better society gets for us ALL. Differences in perspective drive innovation and progress!
Let's Talk About It
Blank on Blank
Produced in collaboration with PBS Digital Studios, Blank on Blank animates lost interviews with celebrities from the past that are still relevant to our current generation.