Hazel Scott’s life story weaves prodigious musical talent with unwavering commitment to equality. Born in Trinidad in 1920 and uprooted to the United States at age four, she emerged as a child prodigy—performing her first recital at five and entering Juilliard at eight. By thirteen, she commanded stages as “Little Miss Hazel Scott,” later gracing Broadway, recording swing piano solos and appearing in Hollywood films.

Her career transcended entertainment, embodying activism through refusals to perform for segregated audiences and public stands alongside civil-rights leaders. In 1963 she led a Paris march in solidarity with Dr. King’s March on Washington, using international fame to challenge racial and gender barriers. Embracing the Bahá’í Faith in 1968, she deepened her dedication to unity and justice, sustaining her advocacy until her passing in 1981.

This compelling portrait highlights the power of art to drive social change. Insights into Scott’s bold strategies for confronting discrimination offer a model of how creative excellence can merge with principled leadership and community-building.