Join Jason Pettigrew, Jordan Smith, and Spencer Young from OneCause in a tender discussion about Black history and what the 28 day celebration means to them.
SHOW NOTES:
February 2, 2023 – Episode # 73
Black History Month, What it Means to Us featuring Jason Pettigrew, Jordan Smith, and Spencer Young
February 1st kickoffs Black History Month, a 28-day (29 days in leap years) reflection to celebrate and honor Black men and women who struggled and triumphed to change the narrative for black culture.
The annual observance was first introduced in 1915 when historian Carter G. Washington co-founded the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History. Responding to the lack of information surrounding the achievements of Black people available to the public, the group declared the 2nd week of February as “Negro History Week” in 1926. The designated week had a special significance since it marked the birthdays of two leaders in the abolitionist movement which sought to end the practice of slavery. Frederick Douglas, a formerly enslaved man, became a prominent activist, author, and public speaker. And U.S. president, Abraham Lincoln, led the United States during the Civil War, which was primarily fought over the enslavement of Black people.
The week-long event officially became Black History Month in 1976 when U.S. president, Gerald Ford, extended the recognition to “honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.”
In this episode, Jason, Jordan, and Spencer are upfront and personal in a candid discussion about Black history and what it means for them.
Highlights include:
- Unsung Black heroes.
- Black leaders in every facet of history.
- Connecting to Black culture.
- Becoming a change agent.
- Tribute to Spencer’s Mom.
- Black innovators like Thomas Jennings, Thomas Elkins, Alexander Miles.
- Building tomorrow’s legacy.
Related Reading and Resources
How the Emmett Till Legacy Foundation Leveraged Text2Give to Increase Awareness, Promote Advocacy, and Drive Fundraising
Former Minnesota Vikings Players and Black Leaders Center the Youth and Bring Community Together
(If you are a nonprofit and would like to be a guest on Raise Nation Radio to feature your mission and impact, contact Dawn Lego.)