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Today is Juneteenth, a day celebrating the end of a horrific period of American history that many people still have a difficult time reckoning with. "Even though the Emancipation Proclamation was made effective in 1863, it could not be implemented in places still under Confederate control. As a result, in the westernmost Confederate state of Texas, enslaved people would not be free until much later. Freedom finally came on June 19, 1865, when some 2,000 Union troops arrived in Galveston Bay, Texas. The army announced that the more than 250,000 enslaved black people in the state, were free by executive decree. This day came to be known as 'Juneteenth,' by the newly freed people in Texas." "The Historical Legacy of Juneteenth": https://lnkd.in/ejd2puYH I have read various pieces on Juneteenth, including the Wikipedia entry, and they all include important insights and historical facts. Do you have a recommended article, podcast, or video on the topic?

Memorial Day, originally known as Decoration Day, has its origins in the aftermath of the American Civil War. This was a period marked by deep, lingering wounds and profound loss across the nation. Yet, even as the conflict ended, a tradition of remembrance and reverence began to emerge. Interestingly, the first organized recognition of fallen U.S. soldiers took place on May 1, 1865, in Charleston, South Carolina. This solemn event was organized by Black Americans, who were resilient in their pursuit of justice and equality in the face of immense pain. This act of honoring the fallen speaks to the courage and honor that is ingrained in the fabric of Black history in America. As we observe Memorial Day today, let us take the time to honor the past, celebrate the present, and commit ourselves to building a better tomorrow. We must let the lessons of history guide us, while drawing strength from the spirit of unity and resilience that defines us as a nation. #MemorialDay2024

What were the experiences of Black American liberators during WWII? In honor of Black History Month, explore our lesson plan to access testimony clips of Black American liberators and help students consider their experiences in the context of the discrimination they faced at home and in the armed forces. https://hubs.li/Q02lFdJ00

The rich history of Black women in American military history since the Revolutionary War is too extensive to be summarized, but in honor of Black History Month, let’s take a moment to appreciate some historical highlights: https://hubs.ly/Q02k4q_g0 #BlackHistoryMonth #BlackHistoryIsAmericanHistory

As we reflect on the history of Memorial Day, it's essential to remember the profound impact of Black Americans in shaping this tradition. In 1996, historian David W. Blight unearthed a poignant piece of history in the archives of Howard University. He discovered that on May 1, 1865, freed Black slaves and white missionaries in Charleston, South Carolina, organized one of the earliest Memorial Day commemorations. This event, held at a former Confederate racetrack where over 250 Union soldiers had died and were buried in unmarked graves, was a powerful act of honor and remembrance. Black Charlestonians reburied these fallen soldiers, built a fence around the graves, and named the site "Martyrs of the Race Course." On the day of the commemoration, nearly 10,000 people, mostly Black, gathered to sing, pray, and honor the Union soldiers who fought for their freedom. Blight, in his 2001 book *Race and Reunion: The Civil War in American Memory*, highlights this event as a foundational moment for what would become Memorial Day. This history underscores the critical role that African Americans have played in the preservation and creation of American traditions. For Black federal government employees today, this legacy is a reminder of the enduring contributions of our ancestors to the nation's fabric. As we continue to serve our country in various capacities, let us draw inspiration from the resilience and dedication of those who came before us. They not only fought for freedom but also established traditions of remembrance that bind us together as a nation. In honoring their legacy, we honor ourselves and the ongoing commitment to justice and equality. This Memorial Day, let's remember the roots of this sacred day and the invaluable contributions of Black Americans to our national story. #MemorialDay #BlackHistory #FederalWorkforce #DavidWBlight #HonorAndRemember #LegacyOfService #blackofficeunlocked #stayunlocked

In a historic move, Maryland Governor Wes Moore has officially declared March 9 as the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion Day, honoring the remarkable contributions of the predominantly Black, all-female battalion during World War II. This battalion played a crucial role in restoring the military postal system, ensuring effective communication between soldiers and civilians amidst the challenges of wartime. Their dedication and hard work have been recognized with various accolades, including a Congressional Medal of Honor and a monument in Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. Retired Col. Edna W. Cummings emphasized the significance of this recognition as a tribute to the service and sacrifice of thousands of Black women in the military, whose efforts have historically gone unrecognized. The initiative resonates with the ongoing need to acknowledge the achievements and challenges faced by Black women both in and outside the military. U.S. Representative Kweisi Mfume and Senator Cory McCray also highlighted the importance of commemorating the battalion's legacy, stressing its role in inspiring future generations and preserving vital history. As we approach the first official observance of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion Day in Maryland, it's essential to reflect on the broader implications of such recognitions for understanding and appreciating diverse contributions to our nation's history. How do business executives view the intersection of historical acknowledgment and diversity in leadership and organizational cultures? We invite your insights and reflections on the importance of recognizing and integrating diverse historical narratives within our professional and societal contexts. https://ow.ly/fmew50QLZFh

Black History Month: Mrs. Ruby Flynn a 2nd District Trailblazer. Mrs. Flynn was the first black female mail carrier in October of 1963. Mrs. Ruby and My Grandmother were best friends and as a young child, I hung around to hear their stories of perseverance. Mrs. Flynn also had one of the most beautiful gardens, and apple and pear trees in the city, I would help my grandmother pick collard greens and strawberries at her home on the weekends. During “Peacetime’ in Lexington, KY after Mrs. Ruby’s historic onboarding at the US Postal Service black residents of Lexington started to apply to be postal carriers once that door was opened for Mrs. Ruby. To be a US Post Office worker, applicants had to take a written test. There were 55 applicants, 5 were white males and 50 were black males. They all arrived to take the test that was administered by a white female superintendent. On the first day of training, only the 5 white males showed up for their first day. One of the white males looked around wondering where the rest of the black males were… many years later it was found out that the superintendent, threw away their ungraded tests and made them ineligible. Fast forward to 2022, 5 Human Resources employees were hired at a state agency. Four white females and 1 black female. The 1 black female was asked to sign a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) to get the job and the others were not. Little has changed toward this Indifference. As we move forward... Together We Can Start Making Legacy Decisions in Business To Be a Story We Can Celebrate and Take Pride in Building Strong Communities...Because Laws Cannot Change Actions That Are Truly Matters of the Heart.

As we commemorate Black History Month, I'm reminded of the profound impact and the enduring legacy of two monumental figures in American history, Benjamin O. Davis Sr. and Benjamin O. Davis Jr., whose stories are brilliantly captured in Doug Melville's "Invisible Generals." My wife, Isabella Pina, and I, who served in the Army for a combined 46 years, feel a deep connection to their journey of resilience, leadership, and groundbreaking achievements. "Invisible Generals" is more than just a book; it's a powerful narrative that brings to light the invisible yet indomitable spirit of these two men who faced unimaginable challenges and persevered against all odds. Their lives exemplify the essence of true leadership and the relentless pursuit of equality within the military ranks and beyond. I urge everyone, especially veterans and those currently serving, to watch the video inspired by this book. It's not only a tribute to the Davises but also a call to recognize and honor the contributions of Black Americans to our nation's history and its armed forces. Watch the video here: https://lnkd.in/eU9gcvT9 This Black History Month, let's pledge to remember and celebrate the achievements of Benjamin O. Davis Sr. and Jr. and all those who, like them, have paved the way for a more inclusive and equitable future. Their legacy is not just a chapter in Black history but a cornerstone of American history. #InvisibleGenerals #BlackHistoryMonth  #DiversityMatters #DiversityAndInclusion  #MilitaryLeadership  #BlackOwnedBusiness #VeteranOwnedBusiness #BeInspired  Inspired Solutions

To all who champion DEI please read this article: 💡How a father and son fought segregation and became the first Black generals in the US military…. As you read the article and celebrate the achievements of two generations of American heroes, I encourage you to open the link to the 💡1925 Study by the Army War College. I point this out because, as the current Anti-DEI rhetoric lament about America not being a “racist society,” this study tells a different story… America IS NOT the worst country in the world, BUT she has practiced racial discrimination policy based on an ideology of racism. If you see yourself as an champion of DEI then I ask you to read and understand US history. The facts are the facts. AND the fact is that DEI is not the problem, racism in America is the problem! The Anti-DEI movement is trying to erase and rewrite history! WHY? https://lnkd.in/eb3y8ifm

As we come to a close to Black History Month, know that Black History should be celebrated all year. Ally’s and DEI champions, I too encourage you to continue the journey with your knowledge and understanding that the work continues. People of color need you more now than ever as the article reflects financial equity gaps that goes back for centuries. #BlackHistoryMonth #DiversityandInclusion #FinancialEquity