In celebration of International Women’s Day, we spotlight the extraordinary Los Angeles women, who have left an indelible mark on the city’s history. From the glamour of Hollywood, to the governance of City Hall, these Los Angeles ladies have reshaped our urban, historical, and cultural landscape. Through resilience and unwavering determination, they shattered barriers and drove progress across the City of Angels’ political and social spheres. As we honor their achievements on this significant occasion, we pay homage to their enduring legacy, serving as inspirations for generations to come.
Join us as we delve into the remarkable lives of these iconic Los Angeles women, who have paved the way for gender equality and empowerment.
1. Marylin Monroe
Marilyn Monroe, born Norma Jeane Mortenson in Los Angeles in 1926, emerged as one of the most iconic figures of the 20th century. Rising from a troubled childhood, she pursued a career in modeling and acting, captivating audiences with her undeniable talent and charisma. Monroe’s meteoric rise to fame not only reflected the aspirations of countless Los Angeles women but also showcased the city’s role as a cultural powerhouse in the entertainment industry.
Monroe’s impact extended far beyond the silver screen, influencing not just L.A.’s history, but also shaping global popular culture. As a symbol of glamour and sensuality, she redefined beauty standards and challenged societal norms, inspiring generations of women worldwide. Her timeless allure continues to captivate audiences, cementing her status as an enduring icon of the city, a woman who dared to defy conventions and pursue their dreams in the City of Angels.
2. Etta James
Born in Los Angeles in 1938, Etta James emerged as one of the most influential figures in the music industry. With her powerful voice and soulful delivery, she transcended genres, leaving an indelible mark on L.A.’s rich musical history. James’ career spanned several decades, during which she achieved both critical acclaim and commercial success.
As one of the foremost Los Angeles women in the music scene, Etta James played a pivotal role in shaping the city’s cultural landscape. She served as a bridge, connecting a wide array of genres including jazz, R&B, soul, rock ‘n roll, gospel, and blues. Etta inspired generations of musicians worldwide. James’ raw, emotive style and fearless approach to storytelling resonated deeply with audiences, cementing her legacy as an icon in the history of contemporary music, who fearlessly pushed boundaries and broke barriers in the industry.
3. Hedy Lamarr
Though born in Europe in 1914, she found her home in Los Angeles, where she rose to prominence as a star during Hollywood’s golden age. Renowned for her beauty and talent, Lamarr captivated audiences with her performances in classic films. However, her contributions to the city’s history and culture extended beyond the silver screen.
Her groundbreaking work in frequency hopping during World War II laid the foundation for modern wireless communication technologies. Despite facing challenges and underestimation as a woman in male-dominated fields, Lamarr’s innovations revolutionized the world of telecommunications. Her legacy as one of the pioneering Los Angeles women, who excelled in both the arts and sciences continues to inspire generations.
4. Amelia Earhart
Despite being born in Kansas, Earhart was a pioneering aviator who left an indelible mark on L.A.’s aviation history. Her fascination with flying began early, and she quickly became one of the most celebrated pilots of her time. In 1932, she made history as the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean, solidifying her place as an aviation legend.
Earhart’s connection to L.A. was profound, as she discovered her passion for flights during an “aerial meet” at Daugherty Field in Long Beach. Most of her flights departed or landed in Los Angeles, and her influence was key for developing aerial infrastructure around the and in the County. Her accomplishments not only propelled her to fame but also inspired countless individuals, especially Los Angeles women, to pursue careers in aviation. Earhart shattered gender barriers in a male-dominated field, leaving an enduring legacy that continues to influence both L.A.’s history and global aviation culture.
5. Clara Shortridge Foltz
Born in Indiana in 1849, she made a significant impact in our city, as one of the pioneering Los Angeles women in the legal field. Despite facing numerous obstacles as a woman seeking to practice law, Foltz’s determination led her to become the first female lawyer on the West Coast. Settling in L.A., she advocated tirelessly for women’s rights and legal reform, leaving an enduring legacy.
Foltz’s influence on L.A.’s history and culture is profound, as she played a pivotal role in shaping the city’s legal landscape. Her efforts led to the establishment of the public defender system, which transformed the criminal justice system and ensured access to legal representation for all. In 2002, the Criminal Courts Building was renamed the Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Justice Center in her honor.
6. Biddy Mason
Born into slavery in Mississippi in 1818, she was brought to Los Angeles by her owners. Despite the challenges she faced, Mason fought for her freedom and eventually gained it in 1856 for her and her daughters, after a landmark legal case in California, making her life a testament to resilience and perseverance.
Mason’s influence on L.A.’s history and culture is profound. As one of the first Black women to own land in the city, she became a prominent figure in the community. Mason’s philanthropy and activism endeared her to many, as she used her resources to support marginalized groups and champion social justice causes.
7. Sally Ride
This trailblazing astronaut was born in Encino, Los Angeles in 1951, marking the beginning of an extraordinary journey that would inspire generations. In 1983, Ride made history as the first American woman to travel to space aboard the Space Shuttle Challenger. Her groundbreaking achievement shattered stereotypes and opened doors for Los Angeles ladies in STEM fields worldwide.
Ride’s pioneering spirit and remarkable accomplishments not only influenced L.A.’s history but also left an indelible mark on global culture. As an advocate for science education and women’s empowerment, she encouraged young girls to pursue their dreams and reach for the stars. Ride’s legacy continues to inspire future generations of astronauts, scientists, and Los Angeles ladies, reminding us all of the boundless possibilities that await those who dare to explore the unknown.
8. Caroline Severance
Born in New York in 1820, played a significant role in shaping the feminist movement in Los Angeles. Moving to California in 1866, Severance became a prominent activist and leader in the fight for women’s rights. She founded both the first Women’s club on the East Coast and in Los Angeles and worked tirelessly to advance causes such as women’s suffrage and equal education opportunities.
Through her advocacy and activism, she challenged societal norms and pushed for gender equality at a time when such ideas were revolutionary. Her efforts laid the groundwork for future generations of feminists in L.A., leaving a lasting impact on the city’s social and political landscape.
9. Dorothy Chandler
This city native was a prominent figure in L.A,’s cultural scene. Born in Illinois in 1901, she settled in Long Beach in 1904 when her family moved to the West Coast. She dedicated her life to advancing the arts and philanthropy. She played a pivotal role in transforming our cultural landscape, particularly through her efforts to establish the Los Angeles Music Center.
As the driving force behind the construction of the Music Center, which opened its doors in 1964, she provided a world-class venue for performing arts in the city. Her vision and leadership not only enriched L.A.’s cultural offerings but also helped solidify its reputation as a hub for creativity and artistic expression. Chandler’s legacy as a patron of the arts continues to shape the city’s cultural identity, inspiring generations to appreciate and support the arts in L.A.
10. Hattie McDaniel
Though a Kansas native born in 1893, Hattie made history in Los Angeles and worldwide, as the first African American woman to win an Oscar. Her breakthrough role as Mammy in “Gone with the Wind” earned her the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress in 1940. McDaniel’s achievement paved the way for greater diversity and representation in Hollywood, challenging racial barriers and stereotypes.
By breaking through racial barriers in the film industry, she contributed to the city’s reputation as a beacon of inclusivity. Her legacy as a trailblazing actress and cultural icon continues to inspire generations of African American performers.
11. Dolores Huerta
Born in New Mexico in 1930, Dolores became a prominent labor leader and civil rights activist, leaving a lasting impact on the city of Los Angeles and beyond. Co-founder of the United Farm Workers (UFW) alongside Cesar Chavez, Huerta played a pivotal role in advocating for the rights of farmworkers, particularly in California’s agricultural regions and the Latinx community.
Huerta’s influence on LA’s history and culture is profound, as she mobilized communities and organized grassroots movements to fight for social justice and equality. Her leadership in the farmworker’s rights movement brought attention to the struggles of marginalized workers and helped secure significant victories, including improved working conditions and wages.
12. Helen Hunt Jackson
Born in Massachusetts in 1830, was a prolific writer and advocate for Native American rights. Her influential novel, “Ramona,” published in 1884, shed light on the mistreatment of Native Americans in California and sparked widespread awareness of their plight. Jackson’s work drew attention to the injustices faced by Indigenous peoples and prompted calls for reform.
Jackson’s “Ramona” had a profound effect on the region, leading to increased awareness and support for Native American rights, and contributing to the ongoing dialogue surrounding Indigenous issues in California and beyond. Additionally, it also inspired tourism and sparked a cultural fascination with Spanish and Native American heritage.
13. Charlotta Bass
Born in 1874, it is unclear if her birthplace was South Carolina or Rhode Island. In 1910, she moved to L.A., where she eventually became the owner and editor of the California Eagle, one of the oldest African American newspapers on the West Coast. This made her the first African American woman to own and run a newspaper. Bass advocated for civil rights, racial equality, and social justice, amplifying the voices of marginalized communities and challenging systemic racism.
In 1952, she made history once again, as the first African American woman to run for Vice President, representing the Progressive Party. Through her groundbreaking candidacy, Bass challenged racial and gender barriers in American politics.
14. Christine Sterling
A native of Oakland and born in 1881, Sterling played a pivotal role in shaping the cultural and historical landscape in our city. As the founder of the Olvera Street restoration project in the 1930s, Sterling spearheaded efforts to preserve and celebrate the city’s Mexican heritage. Her vision transformed Olvera Street into a vibrant cultural hub, attracting tourists and locals alike to experience the rich history and traditions of LA’s early Spanish and Mexican settlers.
Sterling was also an advocate for historic preservation and urban renewal throughout the city. Her efforts helped preserve numerous historic landmarks and neighborhoods, ensuring that future generations could appreciate and learn from LA’s diverse cultural heritage.
15. Anna May Wong
Born in the city in 1905, Anna was a pioneering actress who broke barriers for Asian Americans in Hollywood. Despite facing discrimination and limited opportunities due to her ethnicity, Wong rose to prominence in the film industry during the silent and early talkie eras. She became one of the first Asian American actresses to achieve international recognition.
Through her performances, she challenged stereotypes and showcased the diversity of Asian American talent. Wong paved the way for future generations of Asian American actors and actresses, influencing the representation of Asian characters in film and television.