In the 1920s and 1930s, New York City's community of Harlem was filled with creative work in literature, art, and music. At the heart of this cultural explosion were talented women who took their experiences of being black females and shaped them into meaningful careers as writers, artists, and musicians. Having been fortunate enough to pursue educational and career opportunities, the women of the Harlem Renaissance moved beyond more typical female roles of the time. Today, they are remembered and respected not only for their work but also for their ability to inspire.