Honoring Black Resistance: Celebrating Black History Month 2023
During the observance of Black History Month every February, we are reminded of the significance of reflecting upon the achievements, difficulties, and acts of resistance displayed by African Americans in the United States and beyond. This year, the theme of Black History Month is “Black Resistance”, in recognition of the persistent struggle against systemic oppression and the numerous forms it has taken throughout history.
African Americans have utilized various methods of resistance, such as sit-ins, boycotts, and walkouts in the 1950s and 1970s, to the use of armed resistance against racial terrorism and police brutality, in their continuous pursuit for a just and dignified existence in a democratic society. Throughout history, African Americans have planned and organized insurrections, migrated in search of freedom, and utilized education, literature, media, and politics to raise awareness and resist discrimination.
The establishment of Black faith institutions, cultural centers, libraries, and social, literary, and cultural clubs served as crucial spaces for organizing resistance efforts, promoting intellectual advancement, and preserving Black heritage. African American medical professionals established their own hospitals and clinics to provide quality healthcare, while businesses and labor unions were established for economic and financial autonomy. Education, including HBCUs, was viewed as a means of resisting the notion of intellectual inferiority and has produced activists, artists, entrepreneurs, and educators.
Music, ranging from spirituals and gospel to hip-hop and rap, has served as a means of expression, solidarity, and resistance against racial oppression. These forms of resistance have shaped American culture and continue to inspire activism and progress toward a more equitable society.
As we commemorate Black History Month this February, let us consider the ways in which African Americans have demonstrated resistance throughout history and continue to do so today. We can honor their legacy by educating ourselves, supporting Black-led organizations, and advocating for justice and equality in all facets of society.
Celebrating Juneteenth: Reflecting on Our Journey and Recommitting to Equality
On June 19, 1865, a momentous event unfolded in Texas that would forever alter the course of American history. This day, known as Juneteenth, marked the liberation of 250,000 enslaved individuals, as Union soldiers arrived to enforce the Emancipation Proclamation, which had been in effect for two and a half years. Juneteenth signifies the end of slavery in the United States and heralds the beginning of our continuous effort to fulfill the promise of equality and freedom for all Americans.
At CAPE Inclusion, we stand firm in our dedication to eradicating systemic racism and inequity. We call on everyone to join us in this effort, choosing love over hate, unity over division, and progress over retreat. Let us celebrate the spirit of Juneteenth and renew our commitment to building an inclusive and equitable society for all.
As we reflect on Juneteenth, may we celebrate the essence of freedom, the progress we have made, and the possibilities that lie ahead when we march forward together. Happy Juneteenth from CAPE Inclusion. Together, let’s continue to redeem the soul of America.