Congress honors NASA"s Hidden Figures on Wednesday for moon mission contributions

On Wednesday, a Congressional Gold Medal ceremony will take place on Capitol Hill to honor a group of Black women mathematicians and engineers known as the "Hidden Figures." Their contributions were pivotal to NASA's achievements during the space race from 1930 to 1970, particularly in calculating rocket trajectories and earth orbits, which were essential for the success of early American space flights and the moon landing. House Speaker Mike Johnson will host the event, joined by notable political figures including House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and NASA administrator Bill Nelson. The ceremony will recognize the families of Katherine Johnson, Christine Darden, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson, who were instrumental in NASA's operations but often went unrecognized for their work. Margot Lee Shetterly, who wrote a book about these women that inspired an Oscar-nominated film, will also be in attendance. Shetterly has emphasized the importance of their story, highlighting how these women not only excelled in their roles but also paved the way for future generations of women in STEM fields. The Congressional Gold Medal is the highest honor Congress can bestow, symbolizing the significant impact these women had on the nation’s space exploration efforts. The event serves as a reminder of the contributions of those who have historically been overlooked, ensuring that their legacies are acknowledged and celebrated. This recognition is part of a broader movement to honor the contributions of marginalized groups in American history, reflecting a growing awareness of the need for inclusivity and representation in narratives surrounding scientific achievements.