Oprah Winfrey

In my opinion, a hero is an inspirational role model, and Oprah Winfrey fits that description. I believe that Oprah Winfrey is an African American hero because she has strived for success, accomplished it, and has given back to her community. She is truly someone to look up to. Oprah Winfrey has reached hero status on so many levels throughout her life. She has reached success by having her show become the most watched daytime show in America. Oprah appeared in award winning movies, "Beloved" and "The Color Purple." (biography.com) Oprah Winfrey also has her own magazine, school, and her own network channel named OWN.(biography.com) Her accomplishments create a heroic image for those who adore her.

Oprah's care for her community, her accomplishments count her worthy of being celebrated during Black History Month. She has overcome many obstacles in Black History Month. When Oprah was young, "she was sexually abused by a number of relatives" due to neglect from her mother. (biography.com) At age 14, she suffered from the loss of her premature baby. She showed great resilience from a troublesome teen to one of the most successful and wealthy Black women in America. Oprah was the "richest African American of the 20th century," and she rose to that level with resilience and dedication which is worthy of celebration every Black History Month.

Oprah Winfrey has stood out not only in America, but in the rest of the world also. She has raised $51,000,000 for charitable programs in girls education in South Africa and victims for hurricane Katrina. Oprah changed the way talk showed were viewed from tabloids and silly gossip, to a place where people can discuss serious topics. She has changed black culture from being the least successful to the most successful. Oprah's charity donations and community effort have changed the world.

Oprah Winfrey has brought great pride to African American females all over the world. She has shown resilience, and dedication throughout her life and that makes her an inspiration. Oprah's discussions about serious issues in the wold has opened the eyes of people and made them want to change. She is the adviser and the helping hand of the world, and even today she leaves her mark. Oprah Winfrey is an admirable person to all African Americans, especially me.