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February is Black History Month. For generations, black communities have been exploited, oppressed, and left to defend themselves with no support. This still continues to this day. Despite their living conditions, there have been black leaders who still fought for a better future for their communities.Even though BHM is one month, we will continue to honor the leaders and carry on the knowledge they experienced. We won’t let their stories be white-washed or ignored. We will continue the struggle to create a better future. – Sebastian (We’Ced Program Coordinator)
Lina
George Jackson was a prominant civil rights activist and author, known for his involvement with the Black Panther Party. He spent years in prison, where he became a fierce advocate for prisoners’ rights and racial justice. His book “Soledad Brother” is a collection of letters he wrote from prison, highlighting the struggles of black inmates. Jackson’s life and work brought attention to systemic racism in the penal system and inspired many to challenge inequality. Tragically, his life was cut short during an attempted prison escape in 1971, but his legacy lives on in the ongoing fight for social justice.
Alyssah
He was not only an incredible boxer but was also a powerful advocate for Social Justice. He uses his fame and platform to speak out against racial inequality and the vietnam war. Ali refused to be drafted into the military due to his religious beliefs, opposition to the war cost him his boxing titles and led to a legal battle. He stood by his principles and eventually won his case in the supreme court.
What’s inspiring about Ali is his courage and determination to fight for what he believed in, even when it came at a great personal cost. He showed the world that athletes can be more than just sports stars, they can be powerful for change. Ali’s resilience and unwavering commitment to his values continue to inspire me to stand up for what I believe in and use my voice to make a difference.
Nati
The leader of the Black Panther Party. A revolutionary organization of people who fought for equal rights, socialism and abolishment of police brutality. One of his accomplishments was making this revolutionary political party that confronted politicians, challenged police and protected black citizens and is still one of the most impactful political parties to this day.
One reason he is so inspiring to me is because he created physical change for the black community and society as a whole that we still see to this day. He wasn’t afraid to speak out and fight physically against an unjust society and culture.
Minnie
The first African-American to accomplish breaking the color barrier in baseball and the 1st African-American in the 20th century to take on the field in American and National League. Every season of April 15th, each team in the majors celebrates Jackie Robinson.By breaking the barrier, Robinson has opened many doors for others and will forever be honored for contributing in the game.
What inspires me about Jackie Robinson is not only did he fight for his rights, but ultimately kept fighting to pursue his dream in becoming the 1st greatest African-American baseball player despite all the obstacles and criticisms he got along the way. So because of Jackie Robinson’s optimism and determination, this had inspired many other great historic African-American leaders to become the leaders they were throughout history to help many others in their community and the world.
Stephany
She was an amazing leader who escaped slavery and helped free others through the Underground Railroad. She showed incredible bravery in leading other enslaved people to safety. Despite facing many challenges, she never gave up on fighting for freedom and equality.
Harriet’s actions inspire me because she displayed a great selflessness in helping others, even when it seemed impossible. Her legacy continues to remind us of the importance of standing up of the risks we may face.
Guy
Born on February 17, 1942 in Monroe, Louisiana, moved at a young age to Oakland, California to escape racial violence. Huey faced many challenges growing up, but he didn’t let that stop him. He taught himself how to read and write and even attended Merritt College before recieving his Bachelor’s and Ph.D. from UC Santa Cruz.
Huey P Newton and Bobby Seale formed the Black Panther Party in 1966. Their ten-point program was revolutionary and aimed to bring positive change to the black community and minorities all around the world.
“The revolution has always been in the hands of the young. The young always inherit the revolution.”
