Women's History: Miriam Jiménez Román
Miriam Jiménez Román was an influential figure in the field of Afro-Latinx studies, making significant contributions as a professor, editor, archivist, curator, social theorist, author, and activist. Born on June 11, 1951, in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, to Arcelia Román Ruiz and Afro-Puerto Rican Baldomero Jiménez Font, Miriam's work has been pivotal in highlighting the Afro-Latinx experience.
After graduating from Manhattan's High School of Art and Design in 1969, she furthered her education and became a visiting scholar in Africana Studies at New York University. Alongside her husband, Juan Flores, she co-edited the influential "Afro-Latin@ Studies Reader: History and Culture in the United States," a seminal work that has been crucial in the development of Afro-Latinx studies.
Miriam Jiménez Román's dedication to exploring and advocating for the recognition of Afro-Latinx identities has left a lasting legacy. Her work has not only enriched academic discourse but also provided a foundation for future generations to understand the complex interplay of race, culture, and identity within the Latinx community.
Sadly, Miriam passed away on August 6, 2020, in Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico, after a battle with cancer. Her contributions to academia and her efforts to bridge cultural divides continue to inspire students, scholars, and activists alike.
For more detailed information about her life and work, please visit her Wikipedia page.
