This book belongs on every bookshelf of every American and should be required reading. I cried. I was educated. I was enlightened. I was encouraged. Many names I recognized throughout the book while also learning new names and discovering what so many Americans did to help shape the world we live in today. Everyday people took a stand, fought for what was right, sacrificed for the better of others...all while being just like you and me.

Sharon McMahon has given us a true gift with this book. As someone who often asks what more can I do, this book has shown me that there's a lot I can do. I feel such gratitude for those who have come before me, including Dan Inouye and Norm Mineta since they have San Jose ties. Reading about the many Black women who have fought for equal rights for decades and continue to fight leaves me breathless and in awe. These women are the strongest and I so appreciate each and every one of them.

I cried reading how it feels that history feels like it's currently trying to repeat itself and how we need to be the small and mighty who stand up to ensure our country doesn't go backwards and repeat itself. We know better, therefore we need to do better.