Explore the Stories of Extraordinary Women in Route 66 Women on PASSPORT

• Khamelia Henderson
  BioRecent Stories

  

Historically, for women, Route 66 represented the opportunity to establish businesses, express their creativity, spread awareness for political causes, and the independence and freedom of the open road. Although early car companies wrongfully assumed that only men would be behind the wheel, women proved that they were just as eager for the chance to take on the open road.

Route 66 Women is a three-part documentary that explores the lives and achievements of women who overcame gender discrimination and segregation to build unforgotten legacies on  America’s most significant highway. The work ethic, ingenuity, and perseverance of politicians, anthropologist, artists, military sergeants, entrepreneurs, and waitresses transformed their communities and inspired generations of women to come.

The term “Mother Road” was coined by the author, John Steinbeck in 1926 and has interested both Americans and  international adventurers wanting to journey the 2,400 miles from Chicago to Los Angeles to get the coveted American Experience. Although it represents a popular experience for all kinds of people, the pop culture and historical narratives surrounding route 66 (aka Mother Road) has positioned men as the only people who’ve hit the road. This ground-breaking project highlights the diverse experiences of women who accomplished great feats during 1926 through 1985. Tune in to celebrate the stories of these great women!

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