Lorraine Hansberry: the life of an icon behind the scenes and beyond

On May 19, 1930, a corner of Provident Hospital on Chicago’s South Side heard the cry of a newborn baby girl while her family proudly awaited to greet her. That small cry went on to become one of the most important and influential voices in Black history itself. This is the story of Lorraine Hansberry — a playwright, author and activist.

Shaped by the racial struggles of mid-20th-century America, Lorraine Hansberry’s life was a powerful fusion of art, activism, and resilience. Born into a prominent black family, Lorraine’s father was a successful real estate broker and political figure, while her mother, Nannie Perry, was a former schoolteacher. The youngest of four children, Lorraine was also exposed to people from all sections of society, as well as prominent figures, growing up, which possibly helped her to grow up to be an exceptionally brave woman who stood her ground.