Women have historically appeared to be underrepresented in a variety of scientific fields, and their roles and contributions to the scientific advancements unsung. The same reflection of society is present in films as well; Yet, there have been few and far between that celebrate the scientist in women and work to empower them. Given this glaring lack of representations of women scientists, especially women of color, who even in the 21st century are still markedly underrepresented and underutilized, it is thus very critical to recognize films that have clearly reflected the achievements of women and girls in the fields of science. And a not-so-hidden gem among the sea of films out there is none other than the appropriately named “Hidden Figures.” 

Hidden Figures palpably details the struggles the three female black leads — Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson — encountered on their fateful journeys to becoming the outstanding scientists, mathematicians, and engineers that we know and love today. Throughout the film, the women experienced numerous instances of discrimination, often in the form of off-handed, casual comments made by locals and their coworkers. And the consistency of these microaggressions only became grating as the film progressed.

At one point, Vivian Mitchell stops Dorothy Vaughan in the bathroom and tells her, “despite what you may think, I have nothing against y’all,” to which Vaughan responds, with a chuckle, “I know you probably believe that.” Although brief, this exchange sheds light on a deeper, more serious issue concerning racism that persists even today; It calls to our attention how important it is to have a personal awareness and understanding of how we contribute to systematic oppression without even realizing it, as well as how our unconscious generalizations and prejudices may negatively affect how we communicate and interact with others. This scene, in particular, serves as a reminder for the audiences of how important it is for us to be conscientious of our language and behavior and to ensure that we treat everyone with respect, regardless of our preconceptions.

The film did a wonderful job of appealing to and engaging viewers, making them feel like they could easily put themselves in those three women’s shoes like they were right there with them at each of their setbacks and triumphs. It was empowering and inspiring to see these women succeed. At another point, Mary Jackson says, “every time we get a chance to get ahead, they move the finish line,” which resonates with many women out there who encounter similar difficulties in their pursuits, be it in education or employment. It is important that collectively we help each other “reach the finish line” in achieving this aspect of equality. 

There has been a significant increase in the number of women in STEM fields, education, and employment, and these numbers will continue to rise as more and more young women see themselves represented in these fields. The individual experiences of women around the world differ greatly nonetheless. However, that is all the more reason why teaching is believed to be such an impactful career. A good teacher can identify and recognize a student’s strengths and potential, open their minds to new ideas and ways of thinking, and foster unbounded creativity. A good teacher is a helper toward the finish line – for everyone.

Hidden Figures affords an opportunity to celebrate the accomplishments of scientists, mathematicians, and engineers who have made world-changing scientific contributions with dignity and grace, as well as to acknowledge and embrace the legacy of these hidden figures, who are now no longer hidden. As the world commemorates the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, let’s take a look back at some of the other great films that have inspired the scientist in every woman.

 

‘Woman In Motion’ (2021)

The film follows Nichelle Nichols as she takes on the daunting task of recruiting 8,000 people for NASA, including trailblazing Latina, African-American, and Asian-American women who went on to travel in space.

 

‘Picture A Scientist’ (2020)

The film celebrates female pioneers in numerous scientific sectors that have altered the face of science today while also addressing the ongoing obstacles women face in STEM education and employment.

  

‘Jane’ (2017)

The film chronicles Jane Goodall’s revolutionary work, in which she gradually integrated herself into the group of chimpanzees she was researching and thereby pioneered an observation approach that gave humans a new understanding of what it means to be human. 

 

‘Code Girl’ (2015)

The film follows girls between the age of 10 to 18 from across the world as they compete in the Technovation Challenge in Silicon Valley, attempting to solve problems in their communities through the use of technology and the force of cooperation.

 

‘Mission Blue’ (2014)

The film follows environmentalist, oceanographer, and marine biologist Sylvia Earle as she embarks on a quest to construct a global network of protected marine sanctuaries.


Source: