February 6, 2025

Saturday, February 1st began Black History Month.  This is a month to reflect upon the richly layered tapestry of contributions, struggles, and triumphs of African Americans throughout the history of the United States. This month also serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight for equality and justice, a pursuit that is rooted in both our national consciousness and spiritual teachings. Given the history and present struggle against racism and white supremacy institutionalized in this country since its founding, the achievements of African Americans should be celebrated not only during the shortest month of the year, but every day.

However, Black History Month this year appears markedly different from past years.  On January 31st a presidential proclamation was issued recognizing February 2025 as National Black History Month. This proclamation stated in part that “Throughout our history, black Americans have been among our country’s most consequential leaders, shaping the cultural and political destiny of our Nation in profound ways.”  Yet the proclamation went on to mention in the same breath as Frederick Douglass and Harriet Tubman politically and socially conservative economist Thomas Sowell and Clarence Thomas as “American heroes.” 

In addition, as the saying goes that “actions speak louder than words.”  In this case, they have spoken louder than the above words proclaimed.  These actions have included an executive order banning Black History Month events in federal agencies (along with MLK Jr. Day, Juneteenth, LGTBQ+ Pride or any “special observances” which essentially target people of color and LGBTQ+ communities). Not only that, but the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) has issued a memorandum preventing “affinity groups and employee networking groups”, and several executive orders have been issued aiming to dismantle Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives and programs within the federal government. Despite the proclamation, actions show a deliberate effort to not to celebrate, but to eradicate the contributions of African Americans that have made America truly great.

One of my favorite verses in Paul’s letter to the Galatians is his declaration that “There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. (Gal 3:28). ” Paul understood that God both honors and celebrates the inherent dignity of every individual. As we celebrate Black History Month, we are called as the body of Christ to honor the truth that every person is created in the image of God and is deserving of respect, justice, and equality.  Proverbs 31:8-9 urges us to “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.” In this spirit, we need to raise our voices against these recent policies and all policies, systems, and institutions that perpetuate white supremacy, racism, and systemic inequalities. 

What we are witnessing from the current administration make it all the more important to celebrate Black History Month this February. So, I encourage you, Central Atlantic Conference, to celebrate Black History Month. In fact, I encourage you to celebrate Black History Month like you’ve never celebrated it before! Celebrating Black History Month this year is not merely celebration. It is an act of both faithful defiance to those who seek to denigrate and not celebrate African Americans as citizens of the beloved community of God.  Here are some ways you can join in the celebration:

1. Participate in local events such as lectures, panel discussions, and cultural festivals that focus on Black history and contributions. 

2. Choose novels, biographies, poetry, or history books that highlight the Black experience and contributions to society. (NOTE: I am reading this month books about two musical giants, a spiritual biography of Duke Ellington and 12 Notes On Life and Creativity by Quincy Jones, who we lost last year).

3. Use this month as an opportunity to support Black-owned businesses, restaurants, and artisans in your community. 

4.: Stream documentaries and films that explore Black history, culture, and significant figures. Look for works that highlight both historical events and contemporary issues. 

5. Take a trip to museums or cultural institutions that focus on Black history and contributions. . 

6. Volunteer your time with organizations that support the Black community or promote social justice initiatives. 

7. Organize or participate in discussions or workshops that focus on Black history, current issues facing the Black community, and ways to promote equity. 

8. Take time to research and learn about your own family's heritage, particularly if you have Black ancestry. Share stories and traditions with family and friends. 

9. Use the month to advocate for social justice and equality. Write to local representatives, participate in peaceful protests, or support policies that promote equity. (NOTE: This is particularly important to do this year)

By engaging in these activities and more , we can appreciate and celebrate Black history and culture while supporting the ongoing fight for equality and justice.

Black History Month, especially this year, serves not only as a time of remembrance but also as a clarion call to action. We are reminded of our responsibility to advocate for justice, equity, and dignity for all, echoing the truths found in scripture and the lessons of history. As we stand together in solidarity and faith, may we, in whatever way we can ,strive for repentance of America’s original sin of racism, and be witnesses of God’s justice and equality in our communities and our nation.

Till Victory is Won,