February is National Black History Month. It is a glorious month in that the achievements of black Americans cannot be denied
Harriet Tubman? Her bravery and stubbornness saved the lives of many black slaves on the Underground Railway.
Dorie Miller? He was a cook aboard a Navy Ship:
Doris "Dorie" Miller (October 12, 1919 – November 24, 1943) was an American Naval cook who was the first Black recipient of the Navy Cross and a nominee for the Medal of Honor. As a mess attendant second class[1][2] in the United States Navy, Miller helped carry wounded sailors to safety during the attack on Pearl Harbor. He then manned an anti-aircraft gun[3] and, despite no prior training in gunnery, officially shot down one plane (according to Navy Department Records) but Doris and other eye witnesses claimed the ranges of four to six.[4] Wikipedia article. Miller was given awards for his bravery in fighting and in rescuing wounded. He died in 1943 from war injuries.
Rosa Parks? She changed history on a city bus.
These are just a few names I can remember off hand. Listen to this letter written by a former emancipated slave to his former slave owner. It is worthy to listen to and appreciate.
One time some decades ago, I recall someone saying something like "Why can't they just get over it? It happened long ago." This has also been said about Natives, Indigenous people.
It is impossible to "get over it". Remember. Don't forget. Honor those who changed the lives of slaves. Honor the slaves who changed history.
Ephesians 4:32 Be kind to one another, compassionate, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you.
Dorie Miller was a navy cook in 1941, when Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor. A brave black man, who was willing and ready to defend his country, stepped out into the bullets. During WW2, black soldiers were demeaned to kitchen work.
ReplyDeleteThey really hit it hard at the schools. Morning announcements frequently contain stories of figures that I've never heard of. It's a very important topic that is finally getting it's due.
ReplyDeleteMany people shaped our country, black and white.
DeleteThumbs up!!!!!!!!!
ReplyDeleteAmazingly brave people.
DeleteGood post. You made us see the need for it. Too many outlets give it a 'rub your nose in it" feel.
ReplyDeleteRecognizing the heroes of all people is important. Writing about any other thing is pointless. One heals, the other destroys.
DeleteI knew Rosa Parks. She was a tiny thing and you just felt like you wanted to put your arm around her shoulders and take care of her. She was a true Southern belle. But there was nothing weak about her. She had a steel spine.
ReplyDeletePraise God for people like Rosa Parks! You met her! That is something you'll never forget.
DeleteThink of how many wonderful contributions those kept in ignorance and slavery could have contributed to making this a better country. Maybe finding cures for diseases or inventions that would improve life. Hard to imagine the awful circumstances the blacks of those days endured. Yes, we can't forget. We just need to remember to do much better now and forever. Loved that video.
ReplyDeleteSo many contributions have been made by the progeny of brilliant black people.
DeleteBrilliant. I wish every student in the country could hear this.
ReplyDeleteThat was brilliant.
DeleteA nice post remembering and honoring this month. I will add a couple to the list.
ReplyDeleteLouie Armstrong, sings a beautiful song, What a Wonderful World, which I believe, still is. And Maya Angelou, who wrote some of the most beautiful quotes in history.
~Sheri
Both excellent artists, talented.
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