MAY 17: TODAY'S INSPIRING WOMEN

Annise Danette Parker

Annise Danette Parker, an American politician who served as the 61st Mayor of Houston, Texas, was born today in 1956. Parker was Houston's second female mayor and one of the first openly gay mayors of a major U.S. city -- with Houston being the most populous U.S. city to elect an openly gay mayor.

Hazel Reid O'Leary

Hazel Reid O'Leary, the seventh United States Secretary of Energy, was born today in 1937. She was the first woman and first African American to hold the position. 

Deeper Dive

Learn more about Annise Danette Parker.