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In a heartfelt initiative during Black History Month, Blood Assurance is calling for more African American donors to step forward and make a difference. Sickle cell disease significantly impacts the African American community, often necessitating frequent blood transfusions.

The organization highlights that a staggering one in three African American donors can be a match for sickle cell patients, yet they account for only 3% of blood donors in the U.S.

To help address this gap, Blood Assurance has appointed Lorean Mays as the new African American and sickle cell initiative manager. Mays is determined to dispel misconceptions around blood donation and underscore its importance in saving lives.

As an incentive, donors from February 1 to 14 will receive two pairs of matching gloves, and O-negative and AB-Plasma donors are eligible for a $25 e-gift card.

Beyoncé and Kendrick Lamar lit up the 67th Grammy Awards, signaling a potential transformation in the show’s legacy of diversity. Beyoncé snagged the coveted Album of the Year for her genre-bending "Cowboy Carter," marking a historic win as the first Black woman to take the title in 21 years.

Meanwhile, Kendrick Lamar dominated the night with multiple awards, including Song of the Year for "Not Like Us," a watershed moment for hip-hop, which has often been overlooked by the Academy.

Diversity initiatives have led to a more inclusive voting body, reflecting contemporary musical trends, as demonstrated by the recognition of rising stars like Doechii and Sabrina Carpenter.

Along with an emotional return by The Weeknd, who addressed past criticisms, the night showcased a concerted effort to evolve. As one commentator noted, “They got it right this year,” leaving many hopeful that this year's Grammys signify a genuine and enduring shift in the awards landscape.

Mark your calendars for an eye-opening presentation titled “Free Did Not Mean Welcome,” hosted by the Kauffman Museum on February 9 at 3 p.m.

In this engaging talk, Carmaletta Williams sheds light on the experiences of emancipated African Americans seeking freedom in Kansas after the Civil War. While many left the South hopeful for a life free from racial discrimination, they soon discovered that “free state” didn’t necessarily equate to a welcoming community.

This event is part of the “Unlocking the Past” exhibit, which explores diverse immigration narratives. Join the discussion and deepen your understanding of the complexities of African American history and identity in the context of Kansas.

The event is free and open to the public, thanks to the support from Kansas Humanities and the National Endowment for the Humanities.

In "Woke History: Freedom Summer and the Fight for Voting Rights," Stanley Fritz revisits a transformative moment in the civil rights movement. In the summer of 1964, over 1,000 passionate college students descended upon Mississippi to empower African Americans to exercise their voting rights, facing a brutal system designed to keep them disenfranchised.

This initiative included voter registration efforts, the establishment of Freedom Schools that educated communities on Black history and civic engagement, and the formation of the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party to challenge segregationist politics. Although the immediate impact on voter registration was limited, the movement ignited national attention, helped mobilize future activists, and laid the groundwork for the Voting Rights Act.

As today's political landscape struggles against rising white supremacy, this powerful reminder of courage and community underscores the importance of remembering our history and fighting for justice.

Join Ohio University Chillicothe for a vibrant Black History Month celebration on February 20 at 6:30 p.m.

, in collaboration with the Chillicothe and Ross County Public Library and the Ross County NAACP. This year's theme, “African Americans and Labor,” honors the significant contributions of Black Americans to the labor movement.

The evening kicks off with a meet and greet featuring art displays at the Patricia Scott Memorial Art Gallery and light refreshments. At 7 p.

m., the festivities continue in the Bennett Hall Auditorium, showcasing the Unified Choir and an exhilarating African drum and dance performance by Dr.

Tanya Price. Dr.

Uzoma Miller, an expert in African American studies, will enlighten attendees with his talk on the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with history and celebrate the achievements of Black Americans in labor! All are welcome to participate in this enriching event.

This captivating article dives into the rich tapestry of African-American sports history, celebrating the trailblazers who transformed the athletic landscape. From Althea Gibson breaking barriers in tennis to Jackie Robinson’s groundbreaking integration into Major League Baseball, these legends didn’t just excel on the field; they reshaped society by challenging racial norms.

Highlights include Colin Kaepernick's bold protest against injustice, LeBron James's impactful activism, and Simone Biles’s historic accomplishments as the most decorated gymnast ever. The piece illuminates essential figures like Muhammad Ali and Jim Brown, whose athletic prowess was matched by their commitment to equality.

Each story exemplifies courage and resilience, reinforcing how sports can amplify voices and inspire change. With compelling anecdotes and significant milestones, this article not only celebrates achievements but also acknowledges the ongoing struggle for equality in sports and beyond.

The Commission on African-American History in Wilmington, NC, serves as a dedicated platform for celebrating and preserving the rich history and contributions of African Americans in the community. Monthly meetings are held on the first Monday of each month at the Skyline Center, inviting residents to engage in discussions about heritage, culture, and historical significance.

Mark your calendars for upcoming gatherings, where you can join fellow community members in exploring important topics and initiatives. Whether you're a history buff or simply curious about local heritage, this is your chance to connect and contribute to the ongoing conversation about African-American history in Wilmington.