Google Doodle salutes Sally Ride -- first LGBT astronaut and American woman in space

When celebrating people's accomplishments, I try to look beyond their gender. With that said, when it comes to overcoming gender discrimination, the fact that they are man or woman is valid to the discussion. Sally Ride was not the first person into space, but she was the first-ever American woman to do so. This is an important accomplishment, as women in America were long held back by an oppressive society. Remember, women could not vote in the USA until 1920. Yes that is 1920 and not 1820!

In 1983, Sally Ride went into space, showing America that not only could a woman be an astronaut, but a woman could be anything. Women going from not being able to vote, to traveling to space in 63 years is rather impressive. While 63 years may seem like a long time, in the grand scheme, it is hardly any time at all. Today, Google celebrates the deceased Ms. Ride with five Doodles.

"As the first American woman in space, Sally Ride -- who would have been 64 today -- captured the nation's imagination as a symbol of the ability of women to break barriers. But her historic flight represented just one aspect of a remarkable and multifaceted life. She was also a physicist, a science writer, and an inspirational advocate for keeping kids excited about science as they go through school", says Tam O’Shaughnessy, Sally Ride's former life partner.

O’Shaughnessy, further says, "Sally died almost three years ago on July 23, 2012, from pancreatic cancer. But I know she would be honored by today’s Google Doodle. With whimsy, it expresses Sally’s sense of fun and adventure, and her ability to inspire young people. And who knows -- maybe her Doodle will motivate some girl or boy somewhere in the world to become a scientist and adventurer just like Sally".

Besides being the first American female in space, Sally Ride was also the first LGBT astronaut, having both been married to a man and later having a female life partner. Her gender and sexuality are important and wortg mentioning because she opened doors for both women and LGBT people. With that said, it is important to remember that ultimately she was both a great human being and a great American whose accomplishments are impressive regardless of being a female.

Google has done a great job with the Doodle, but also with the above video explaining why Sally Ride is important. The video is done in such a way that both kids and adults can consume it, making it great for a parent to share with a child.

Happy 64th birthday, Sally Ride. Thank you for everything you accomplished.

Which of the five Doodle's do you like best? Tell me in the comments.

Photo Credit: Alan C. Heison/Shutterstock