Elizabeth “Bessie” Coleman was an accomplished aviatrix and thrilling stunt pilot. She not only embodied human achievement, but she also showed her nation its potential for greatness.

Barred by prejudice in the United States, she learned French, traveled to Europe, and earned her international pilot’s license. Despite the racial hatred and discrimination against women, she returned home and set out to become both an advocate and inspiration for others cheated of the chance to work toward their dreams.

As she turned down segregated air shows and advocated equal opportunity, she encouraged other adventurous men and women of color to join her in the skies.

It measures approximately 4".