Gordon Parks

Gordon Parks was an influential African American photographer, filmmaker, writer, and composer, born in 1912. He is best known for his powerful photography that captured the struggles and triumphs of African Americans, particularly during the Civil Rights Movement. Parks worked for magazines like Life, where his images highlighted social issues and injustices. He also directed notable films, such as the 1971 movie "Shaft," which helped shape the Blaxploitation genre. Throughout his career, Parks used art as a tool to challenge societal norms and advocate for change, leaving a lasting impact on culture and social justice.