This October marks the 35th Anniversary of the first year Black History Month was celebrated in the UK.
Earlier this month we attended a Black History Month presentation at The Hive, led by Black Lives Matters Worcestershire. This inspriring presentation focussed on key black figures from history and amongst all the people discussed one individual stood out to us in particular – American nurse and innovator, Marie Van Brittan Brown.
Born 30th October 1922 to African-American parents, Marie contributed to a safer society with her invention of the first home security system. Marie developed this as her husband worked night shifts as an electrician and she often felt vulnerable in a high crime neighbourhood, with lengthy police response times. Marie decided to find a way to see exactly who was at her door, without having to physically be at the door and without having to actually open it. Microphones played a vital part in her invention, as these enabled her to talk with whoever was outside, again without actually having to open the door and be face-to-face with whoever was there – leaving herself safer and less vulnerable.
Marie’s impact will never be forgotten – any security system, whether it be within homes, businesses, or banks, can all be traced back to her invention. As we approach the centenerary of her birth we celebrate Marie Van Brittan Brown – a remarkable innovator borne out of the neccesity to keep herself safe.
Safety at home is one of the important things we discuss with anyone who contacts us in need of help or support – find out more about our services here