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BlackVoter.org
July 04, 2025
In a poignant address at the Pentagon's African American History Month observance, Marine Corps Maj. Gen.
Clifford L. Stanley highlighted the complexities surrounding ethnic observances.
He acknowledged that many people feel uncomfortable discussing African American history, despite its recognition at various levels of government. Drawing on the legacy of historian Carter G.
Woodson, who initiated Negro History Week, Stanley emphasized the ongoing struggles faced by African Americans and called for mutual respect and understanding in today's society. His reflections on personal experiences of marginalization resonated deeply with the multiracial audience, reminding them of the historical context that shapes contemporary perceptions.
Stanley urged everyone, particularly those in positions of power, to show compassion and patience towards others as they navigate their own journeys. The program underscored the significance of family, church, politics, and culture within the African American community, fostering a call for unity and support.
The Defense Department recently celebrated African American History Month at Huston-Tillotson University in Austin, Texas, emphasizing the theme of “Reaching Out to Youth: A Strategy for Excellence.” This engaging event marked the fourth year of the Department's initiative to connect with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and shed light on both business and career opportunities available within the DoD.
Keynote speeches highlighted the vital role of African American groups in advancing community opportunities. Clarence A.
Johnson, DoD’s director of civilian equal employment opportunity, underscored the importance of inspiring young minds, inviting middle and high school students to explore potential careers in science and engineering. The observance not only celebrated African American contributions to national defense but also reinforced DoD’s commitment to diversity and education in the workforce.
In a thought-provoking opinion piece for Deseret News, Matthew Brogdon reflects on America’s foundational principles as articulated in the Declaration of Independence—liberty and equality for all. He highlights how figures like Lemuel Haynes, the first African American ordained minister, championed these ideals, arguing that true liberty extends to everyone, regardless of race.
Brogdon examines the conflicting views on slavery among the Founding Fathers and emphasizes that despite historical struggles, the Declaration’s promise of equality has fueled movements for justice, from Abraham Lincoln to Martin Luther King Jr. As we celebrate Independence Day, he urges us to honor and preserve this rich legacy of constitutional rights, reminding us that it is our collective responsibility to enhance this inheritance for future generations.
Ultimately, Brogdon calls on Americans to recognize and champion the enduring values of freedom and justice that unite us all.
In "A Different Revolution," Ace Thelin explores the deeper truths behind the American Revolution, challenging the romanticized narratives surrounding the Founding Fathers. He argues that the push for independence was fueled not only by a desire for liberty from Britain but also by the need to preserve the oppressive structures of slavery and colonial dominion.
Highlighting the impact of the "Glorious Revolution" and events like Somerset’s Case, Thelin reveals that the rebellion was more about maintaining power for the colonial ruling class than championing democratic ideals. He asserts that the Constitution was crafted to entrench these power dynamics, favoring slaveholders and a white supremacist agenda.
This provocative critique encourages readers to reconsider the foundations of American history and the realities of the nation's birth, positing that true understanding of this "revolution" requires acknowledging its intricate ties to injustice and inequality.
In the summer of 1896, following the Supreme Court’s Plessy v. Ferguson ruling that legalized racial segregation, Milwaukee's Black community sprang into action, igniting early civil rights activism.
Despite its small population, under 2,000, Milwaukee’s African Americans organized in churches and community halls, mobilizing against the looming threat of discriminatory policies that could emerge from the ruling. Their efforts included public meetings, petitions, and newspaper editorials to advocate for equal access to education and public services.
This grassroots mobilization not only symbolized resistance to segregation but also laid the groundwork for future civil rights movements in the North. The strategies developed during this period—such as leveraging church networks and community organizing—proved essential in subsequent battles for equality in housing and education.
Today, the legacy of these 1896 actions highlights the enduring fight against systemic racism as their echoes resonate through contemporary struggles for justice.
In “The Fourth of July: Freedom & The Legacy of Harriet Tubman,” Barbara Edwards invites us to re-examine Independence Day through the lens of courage and liberation, highlighting the poignant contrast between American celebrations and the ongoing struggle for freedom. While the Fourth of July commemorates the Declaration of Independence, it also represents a paradox for many, especially African Americans.
Central to this narrative is Harriet Tubman, a fearless freedom fighter who not only escaped slavery but risked her life repeatedly to lead others to safety via the Underground Railroad. Her legacy embodies the very essence of independence, reminding us that the fight for equality and justice is ever-present.
As we enjoy the fireworks and festivities, Edwards encourages us to celebrate not just our past but to renew our commitment to liberty and justice for all, particularly for women and girls. Let Tubman's story inspire a fresh perspective on freedom this Independence Day.
Join us for the IAAM History Community Scanning Day on August 2nd, where we celebrate Black heritage on James Island! From 10 AM to 3 PM at the Thomas Johnson Park, this free event invites you to bring your cherished family artifacts, such as photos, documents, and records, to help preserve and honor the rich stories of our community. Whether you're keen to explore your ancestry or simply love storytelling, this day is for everyone! Kids are welcome, nestled with fun activities while adults delve into their family's history.
Don't forget to bring a USB drive for your scanned treasures! Together, let's lift up the names, faces, and legacies that have molded our past and continue to shape our future.