Stanford University to open Department of African and African American Studies

The Stanford Board of Trustees approved the creation of the Department of African and African American Studies in the School of Humanities and Sciences (H&S) this week. The department – years in the making – officially opens in January.

The university has had a Program in African and African American Studies (AAAS) for more than 50 years, but long-standing efforts supporting AAAS departmentalization were galvanized by the murder of George Floyd in 2020. “Events since 2020 have made it increasingly apparent that the time has come for Stanford to put our work in AAAS on a permanent footing …” said R. Lanier Anderson, the J.E. Wallace Sterling Professor of the Humanities and professor of philosophy.

In 2021, a task force convened by former Provost Persis Drell and H&S Dean Debra Satz recommended the creation of a department.

Ato Quayson, the Jean G. and Morris M. Doyle Professor in Interdisciplinary Studies and professor of English, will serve as the AAAS department’s inaugural chair. The department will have tracks in African Studies, African American Studies, and Global Black Diaspora Studies. Also, it will provide opportunities for community-engaged learning, for students to study a language pertinent to Black Studies, and for creative expression in collaboration with the Institute for Diversity in the Arts, Quayson said in a presentation to the Committee of Student, Alumni, and External Affairs.

Shortly before the vote approving departmentalization, Quayson pulled out his well-worn original copy of Toni Morrison’s Beloved and gave a moving rendition of the character Baby Suggs’ sermon: “You got to love it. This is flesh I’m talking about here. Flesh that needs to be loved. Feet that need to rest and to dance; backs that need support; shoulders that need arms, strong arms I’m telling you.” Trustees enthusiastically applauded both Quayson’s reading and the vote approving creation of the AAAS department.

[SOURCE: STANFORD REPORT]

National Museum of African American History and Culture celebrates 10 millionth visitor

It's been seven years since the Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture opened on the National Mall. But in that relatively short lifetime for a museum, a stunning number of visitors have stopped by.

On 9/30/23 the NMAAHC welcomed the 10 millionth visitor through its doors.

New Book Alert! Black AF History: The Un-Whitewashed Story of America by Michael Harriot

From acclaimed columnist and political commentator Michael Harriot, a searingly smart and bitingly hilarious retelling of American history that corrects the record and showcases the perspectives and experiences of Black Americans.

America’s backstory is a whitewashed mythology implanted in our collective memory. It is the story of the pilgrims on the Mayflower building a new nation. It is George Washington’s cherry tree and Abraham Lincoln’s log cabin. It is the fantastic tale of slaves that spontaneously teleported themselves here with nothing but strong backs and negro spirituals. It is a sugarcoated legend based on an almost true story.

It should come as no surprise that the dominant narrative of American history is blighted with errors and oversights—after all, history books were written by white men with their perspectives at the forefront. It could even be said that the devaluation and erasure of the Black experience is as American as apple pie.

In Black AF History, Michael Harriot presents a more accurate version of American history. Combining unapologetically provocative storytelling with meticulous research based on primary sources as well as the work of pioneering Black historians, scholars, and journalists, Harriot removes the white sugarcoating from the American story, placing Black people squarely at the center. With incisive wit, Harriot speaks hilarious truth to oppressive power, subverting conventional historical narratives with little-known stories about the experiences of Black Americans. From the African Americans who arrived before 1619 to the unenslavable bandit who inspired America’s first police force, this long overdue corrective provides a revealing look into our past that is as urgent as it is necessary. For too long, we have refused to acknowledge that Americanhistory is white history. Not this one. This history is Black AF.

BUY THE BOOK AT AMAZON

Congressional Black Caucus Issues Statement on Florida's Guidelines for Black History

Congressional Black Caucus Chairman Steven Horsford (NV-04) and members of the Congressional Black Caucus issued the following statement regarding the Florida State Board of Education’s new standards for Black history curriculum:

“The Congressional Black Caucus condemns in the strongest language any school curriculum that would suggest that enslaved Africans benefited in any way from slavery. This revisionist telling of American history approved by the Florida State Board of Education is a shameful disservice to Florida’s students and tantamount to gaslighting of the highest order.

“The Florida Board of Education’s attempt to minimize the darkest chapter in our nation's history is an affront to the intelligence of the American people and an overt attempt to maintain white supremacy. The CBC is calling for the Florida State Board of Education to immediately reverse its decision and put an end to the attacks on Black history in the state.

“The CBC will continue to push for the passage of the Black History is American History Act reintroduced by Rep. Joyce Beatty to incentivize schools and educators to teach Black history in the classroom.”

https://www.africanamericanreports.com/2023/07/congressional-black-caucus-issues_25.html

Ames airport to be renamed in honor of African American flight pioneer

IOWA-The city of Ames is hosting a dedication ceremony Saturday for the renaming of its airport. Spokesperson, Susan Gwiasda says the airport is being named in honor of African-American flight pioneer James Herman Banning.

“James Herman Banning was a resident of Ames from 1919 to about 1928. He ended up becoming the first pilot to receive his pilot’s license from the U.S. Department of Commerce,” she says. Gwiasda says it was not an easy route for Denning. “He was denied flight instruction, several different places he tried to receive flight instruction in central Iowa,” Gwiasda says, “but eventually found a flight teacher and went on to become the first African American pilot to fly across the United States.”

Banning attended Iowa State University for one year and named a plane he flew “Miss Ames.” The dedication ceremony will take place at 10 a.m. on Saturday, June 17th.

[SOURCE: RADIOIOWA]

Fort Polk renamed Fort Johnson to honor African American WWI hero

As part of the national campaign to change the names of U.S. Army installations to cut ties with Confederate figures in America, Louisiana’s Fort Polk was redesignated to Fort Johnson Tuesday morning.

The campaign includes renaming nine U.S. Army bases, including North Carolina’s Fort Bragg changed to Fort Liberty, Texas’ Fort Hood changed to Fort Cavazos and Georgia’s Fort Benning changed to Fort Moore, among other changes.

Fort Polk was originally named after Lt. Gen. Leonidas Polk, a Confederate commander.

Now, the Fort Johnson base is honored for Sgt. William Henry Johnson, an African American World War I Medal of Honor recipient who served in the all-Black 369th U.S Infantry Regiment.

“Sgt. William Henry Johnson embodied the warrior spirit, and we are deeply honored to bear his name at the Home of Heroes,” said Brig. Gen. David W. Gardner, commanding general of the Joint Readiness Training Center and Fort Polk, in the press release.

The North Carolina native served one tour of duty on the western edge of the Argonne Forest in France’s Champagne region from 1918-1919, and became one of the first Americans to be awarded France’s highest award for valor, the French Croix de Guerre avec Palme.

According to the U.S. Department of Defense, former President Theodore Roosevelt called Johnson one of the five bravest Americans to serve in World War I.

After his death in July 1929, Johnson was awarded the Purple Heart in 1996, the Distinguished Service Cross in 2003, and most recently, the Medal of Honor in 2015.

More names are expected to be changed through the renaming campaign, including Georgia’s Fort Gordon changed to Fort Eisenhower to commemorate Army General Dwight D. Eisenhower, and Virginia’s Fort A.P. Hill will be changed to honor Dr. Mary Edwards Walker.

[SOURCE: UPI]

New Museum Will Further Tell the Powerful Stories of the Negro Leagues Baseball Players

The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum (NLBM) announced it has been awarded a $1 million grant from Bank of America in support of the museum’s $25 million capital campaign to build a new 30,000 square-foot facility. This funding will enable the NLBM to provide the latest state of the art technology that will be used to promote diversity, inclusion, and equity through the lens of America’s unsung baseball heroes who overcame tremendous social adversity to play baseball.  The announcement was made at the NLBM with bank and museum officials alongside Congressman Emanuel Cleaver; Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas; Frank White, Jr., Jackson County Executive; Kathy Nelson, President & CEO, Kansas City Sports Commission and John Sherman, Chairman & CEO Kansas City Royals.

To coincide with the bank’s commitment of the new museum, Major League Baseball alumni players David DeJesus, Rajai Davis, and Dexter Fowler will take part in a Bank of America “Play It Forward” baseball clinic on Saturday, May 6 for 50 area youth from the YMCA of Greater Kansas City. The Clinic coincides with the celebration of the winning spirit of the Kansas City Monarchs and is held on the anniversary of Jackie Robinson’s first game with the team.

The new state of the art facility will be built adjacent to the Buck O’Neil Education and Research Center (BOERC) which will now be housed in the former Paseo YMCA. That historic building is where Andrew “Rube” Foster established the Negro Leagues in 1920. With help from the anchor grant, the new NLBM, in combination with the BOERC, will create a “Negro Leagues Campus” that will become the gateway into Kansas City’s famed Historic 18th & Vine District. This will be a catalyst for economic growth in a vastly underserved, predominantly African American community.

The bank’s support will allow the NLBM to expand programming, create dynamic interactive displays, house a gallery to showcase new exhibitions, feature a larger gift shop, and include a more expansive archival and storage space.

“Thanks to the generosity and continued support of Bank of America, the future of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum begins today,” said Bob Kendrick, museum president. “Our growth from a one-room office to becoming America’s National Negro Leagues Baseball Museum has been an amazing journey. Now, we’re building an organization that will continue to preserve and celebrate the triumphant story of the Negro Leagues but also fortify our position as one of the nation’s most important civil rights and social justice institutions,” Kendrick said.

The grant is part of Bank of America’s overall commitment to strengthening the Kansas City community by addressing key issues fundamental to economic opportunity and social progress. It also builds on Bank of America’s efforts to advance racial equality and opportunity for communities of color. The new facility will integrate a blend of technology and nostalgia to create an immersive culturally enriched experience that enlightens students and adults about a precious piece of baseball and Americana that has been excluded from the pages of American history books.

“We share NLBM’s mission to preserve and celebrate the rich history of African American baseball and its impact on the social advancement of America,” said Matt Linski, president, Bank of America Kansas City. “Our commitment recognizes the importance – culturally and economically – of the 18th & Vine District to Kansas City today and we hope it will be an example for other funders to follow. Additionally, this grant is paramount to ensuring greater understanding and better appreciation of the many contributions African Americans have made and continue to make, including Jackie Robinson breaking the Major League color barrier.”

This announcement is the latest in a series of investments that Bank of America has made in the Kansas City community. Bank of America has invested more than $13 million in grants and sponsorships since 2020 as well as capital investments to help small businesses, affordable housing, and other economic revitalization projects benefiting communities throughout Kansas City.

Bank of America’s relationship with the NLBM dates back to the 1980s with bank leaders having served on the original 18th & Vine Authority Board that established the district. Bank of America funded the exhibition Discovering Greatness that traveled to all Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) campuses to reach young African Americans who might otherwise have been unaware of their Negro Leagues heritage. In 2008, the museum presented Bank of America the prestigious Buck O’Neil Legacy Award. In 2019, the museum was selected for Neighborhood Builders®, Bank of America’s signature philanthropic program and received $2000,000 grant for operational funding and leadership training.   President Bob Kendrick has provided thought leadership at numerous Bank of America events including Courageous Conversations over the past three years and at the recent opening of the Barrier Breakers exhibition at Dodger Stadium. The NLBM has been part of the bank’s Museums on Us® program for many years.

For more information, please visit: www.nlbm.com/pitchforthefuture

NAACP Issues Travel Advisory in Florida

The NAACP Board of Directors issued a formal travel advisory for the state of Florida. The travel advisory comes in direct response to Governor Ron DeSantis' aggressive attempts to erase Black history and to restrict diversity, equity, and inclusion programs in Florida schools.

The formal travel notice states, "Florida is openly hostile toward African Americans, people of color and LGBTQ+ individuals. Before traveling to Florida, please understand that the state of Florida devalues and marginalizes the contributions of, and the challenges faced by African Americans and other communities of color."

"Let me be clear - failing to teach an accurate representation of the horrors and inequalities that Black Americans have faced and continue to face is a disservice to students and a dereliction of duty to all," said NAACP President & CEO Derrick Johnson. "Under the leadership of Governor Desantis, the state of Florida has become hostile to Black Americans and in direct conflict with the democratic ideals that our union was founded upon. He should know that democracy will prevail because its defenders are prepared to stand up and fight. We're not backing down, and we encourage our allies to join us in the battle for the soul of our nation."

The travel advisory was initially proposed to the Board of Directors by NAACP's Florida State Conference. NAACP's collective consideration of this advisory is a result from unrelenting attacks on fundamental freedoms from the Governor and his legislative body.

"Once again, hate-inspired state leaders have chosen to put politics over people. Governor Ron DeSantis and the state of Florida have engaged in a blatant war against principles of diversity and inclusion and rejected our shared identities to appeal to a dangerous, extremist minority," said Chair of the NAACP Board of Directors, Leon Russell. "We will not not allow our rights and history to be held hostage for political grandstanding. The NAACP proudly fights against the malicious attacks in Florida, against Black Americans. I encourage my fellow Floridians to join in this fight to protect ourselves and our democracy."

Following Gov. DeSantis' so-called leadership in driving the state to reject students' access to AP African American studies course in March, the NAACP distributed 10,000 books to 25 predominantly Black communities across the state in collaboration with the American Federation of Teachers's Reading Opens the World program. The majority of the books donated were titles banned under the state's increasingly restrictive laws. The NAACP continues to encourage local branches and youth councils to start community libraries to ensure access to representative literature.

The NAACP encourages Florida residents to join this effort to defeat the regressive policies of this Governor and this state legislature. Interested residents and supporters can visit www.naacp.org for additional information and updates.

NEW READ: The Almost Forgotten: America's First Black American Congressmen Paperback by Darryl J. Brackeen Jr.

The Almost Forgotten: America's First Black American Congressmen Paperback by Darryl J. Brackeen Jr.

The first Black American congressmen highlighted in this book have gone unnamed, unnoticed, and unrecognized due to the short-lived nature of the Reconstruction Era. For a moment after the civil war, Black political power was displayed by the significant voting efforts of African American men through the nominations and elections of Black men to elected office and leadership roles.

Historian, educator, theologian, and political practitioner Darryl Brackeen Jr pens his debut book, "The Almost Forgotten: America's First Black American Congressmen." This series of biographies of formerly enslaved men and free Black Americans who overcame one of the worst periods in American history to become highly respected educators, religious leaders, and business owners during the Reconstruction era. These individuals rose up to get involved in building political efforts for the Black community, despite the violent opposition of the Klu Klux Klan and former Confederate leaders. While this moment in American history is short-lived for Black Americans and many of the individuals in this book are the leaders to run for the United States Congress. Most were "almost forgotten" because many of them ended up in poverty or living in obscurity. Many of their stories have gone untold and under-recognized for generations, and now Brackeen will offer an opportunity to reintroduce some of the brave Black political leaders in American history.

CHECK OUT THE BOOK ON AMAZON

One of first African-American Marines celebrates 100th birthday

Lee Newby Jr. of Detroit, one of the first African-American Marines, was honored by state lawmakers during a celebration of his 100th birthday on Saturday.

The ceremony at the Detroit Marriott in the Renaissance Center was hosted by State Rep. Donavan McKinney, D-Detroit, and Joe Tate of Detroit, who became the first African-American elected Michigan's speaker of the House in November 2022.

Tate, a former National Football League player and Michigan State University offensive lineman, also served in the Marines.

“I can’t thank Mr. Newby enough for his service to our country. He is a true hero and trailblazer,” Tate said in a statement. “As a veteran of the Marine Corps myself, I am aware of the responsibilities he has carried and the sacrifices he has endured."

Newby, who resides in McKinney's district in Detroit, served during World War II. The first African-Americans joined the Marine Corps in 1942.

“This ceremony not only celebrates the life of a brave serviceman, but also truly honors Black Marines, their dedication through World War II and all their service to this country,” McKinney said in a statement.

[SOURCE: DETROIT NEWS]

Congressman Kweisi Mfume Introduces Legislation to Commemorate African American World War II Hero Doris Miller

Today, Congressman Kweisi Mfume (MD-07) announced the introduction of a pair of bills to commemorate the life and legacy of African American Mess Attendant Doris ‘Dorie’ Miller. During the attack on Pearl Harbor, Mess Attendant Miller manned an anti-aircraft gun and downed enemy planes, despite the fact that the racially segregated steward’s branch of the Navy was not trained to use anti-aircraft guns. Congressman Mfume’s bills seek to award the Medal of Honor and a Congressional Gold Medal to Mess Attendant Miller.

“Today is ‘Dorie Miller Day’ on Capitol Hill. Dorie Miller protected America, and we are all the beneficiaries of his bravery. His valiance is even more admirable because he courageously worked to save a democracy that he could not fully enjoy at that time, as the United States military did not become fully integrated until almost seven years after his heroism in World War II,” said Congressman Mfume. “I am honored to continue the work of my friend, former Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson, who had fought to give Mess Attendant Miller’s legacy the celebration of the Medal of Honor since 2001. And with my dual-tracked legislative effort to award both the Medal of Honor and a Congressional Gold Medal, Dorie Miller will finally be recognized with an American salute that is long overdue,” he concluded.  

The Life of Doris ‘Dorie’ Miller

Background

• Born in Waco, Texas on October 12, 1919.

• Son of Connery and Henrietta Miller.

• Dropped out of school to support the family farm, worked part-time as a cook in a small restaurant in Waco.

Military Career 

• Enlisted in the United States Navy in September of 1939.

• After bootcamp training, was assigned to the USS West Virginia as a messman.

• Quickly moved up in the ranks from messman to ship’s cook, third class, and was stationed at Pearl Harbor.

• Black sailors serving in the racially segregated steward’s branch of the Navy were not trained to use anti-aircraft guns.

• On December 7, 1941, Doris Miller was doing laundry at around 8:00 a.m. when a Japanese torpedo hit his ship, anchored in Pearl Harbor.

• He rushed to the main deck to help move his mortally wounded captain out of harm’s way and attend to other wounded sailors.

• He then manned a 0.50-calibre anti-aircraft gun and fired at the attacking planes.

• According to news stories and other sailors’ accounts, Doris Miller downed 2 to 5 enemy planes before he was forced to abandon ship.

National Awards and the Medal of Honor 

• Doris Miller was awarded a commendation from the Secretary of the Navy as well as the Navy Cross on May 27, 1942, in a ceremony at Pearl Harbor.

• The Navy recently commissioned an aircraft carrier to be named after Doris Miller, and the town of Waco, Texas recently unveiled a riverside memorial.

• Doris Miller has yet to receive the Navy’s highest award, the Medal of Honor.

  • Mr. Miller’s family and friends have fought for decades to convince the Navy to award Doris Miller with the Medal of Honor posthumously.

  • More than 15 cities have expressed support, and the U.S. Conference of Mayors adopted a resolution endorsing the effort in 2001.

  • Congress has introduced a resolution in support of the Navy awarding Doris Miller the Medal of Honor every year since 2015.

  • Decisions on military honors are typically reserved for the military, and the Navy has not yet decided to change course on Doris Miller’s status.

Medal of Honor Bill – Doris Miller

• This bill authorizes the President to award the Medal of Honor, the highest military decoration in the United States Armed Forces, to Mess Attendant Doris 'Dorie' Miller.

• Former Representative Eddie Bernice Johnson had fought to give Mess Attendant Miller’s legacy this recognition since 2001.

• This legislation is endorsed by the National Association for Black Veterans (NABVETs) and the Dorie Miller Medal of Honor Committee. 

Congressional Gold Medal Bill – Doris Miller

• The second bill of this dual-tracked legislative effort to federally recognize Doris Miller awards him posthumously the Congressional Gold Medal, the highest civilian award in the United States.

• If approved by Congress, Doris Miller’s family would receive the medal and it would be displayed at the Smithsonian Museum. 

Black author writes horror story about sellouts in the African American Community

George L. Cook III has written a kindle vella horror story titled SELLOUT, A Ghost Story about a Black person who has no qualms about making money by talking bad or degrading his "own" people. The story focuses on a character named Richard English, who is a political pundit who appears on TV and radio talk shows and always puts Black people in a negative light. Although a horror story the story features a Black History twist.

African American Reports had a few questions for the author:

AAREPORTS: What was the inspiration for writing SELLOUT?

George Cook: As you kknow there has been a lot of focus on race here in America with Tyre Nichols and the made up CRT contoversy, as well as other issues. It was something I heard a talking head on TV say about the death of Tyre Nichols and the police chief of Baltimore being like a single mother not able to control her sons that inspired me to write the SELLOUT. What that talking head said really pissed me off.

AAREPORTS: Would you like to name that talking head?

George Cook: No, but I'll just say he is someone who hasn't missed afew meals in a while.

AAREPORTS: What made you go the horror route with this story?

George Cook: That's the genre I'm most comfortable writing it in.

AAREPORTS: I know you can't give away any of the story but how did you get Black History into the story?

George Cook: I wrote the story during Black History Month and that actually gave me the basis for the story and what the narrative would be. I was able to slip in about four to five Black history facts for the reader, but only if they are are paying attention.

AAREPORTS: We loved that endind, does that mean a certain ghost will be back?

George Cook: I really don't know but I don't think so. I think the way the story ended maked the intended point and there's no reason to go there again.

AAREPORTS: First tell us what is a Kindle Vella story and then why you released SELLOUT that way as opposed to releasing it as a short story?

To put it simply Kindle Vella was something new that allows an author to release a story in small episodes of which the first three are free to the reader. To read the final episode a reader will need tokens to read but Amazon will give someone new to Kindle Vella 200 tokens free and part 4 will only cost you 11 tokens. You also don't need any special app, you can immediately read the story on your phone, tablet, or CPU just by clicking a link to the story.

I really like writing in an eposodic format and it's fun to leave cliffhangers or have a reader waiting until the next episode to see what happens next. I released SELLOUT using the Netflix model of releasing the entire 4 episode story at once so you can finish the story on one shot.

AAREPORTS: Where can Readers get SELLOUT?

George Cook: On Amazon by using this link:

https://www.amazon.com/kindle-vella/story/B0BTXMRZXW

AAREPORTS: Thank you for this interview, and is there any thing you would like to say in closing?

George Cook: Thank you for having me and i would just like to ask readers to support SELLOUT and please read that last episode. Good wishes to all.

As Black History Month Begins, Booker, Bowman Reintroduce African American History Act

 U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ). and U.S. Representative Jamaal Bowman (D-NY-16) reintroduced the African American History Act. This legislation provides important resources to help educate the American public about the richness and complexity of African American history and the impacts of racism, white supremacy, and the struggle for justice on the fabric of America.  

Black Americans and those of the African Diaspora have made countless contributions since the founding of the United States. Unfortunately, throughout history, there have been attempts to purposefully revise or remove African American history within our school curriculums. As recent as this year, those attempts are still being pursued after news of the state of Florida attempting to ban an AP course on African American studies.

“The story of Black people in America is inextricably linked to the story of America. The fullness of this rich history must be told -- both its dark chapters and the light brought by generations of people determined to overcome and make our country better through an ongoing quest for justice,” said Senator Booker. “We have seen this happen far too many times throughout history – where some dismiss our important stories and intentionally change the way history is told to fit political agendas. As we begin Black History Month, I am proud to reintroduce this legislation that will invest in initiatives to make African American history education programs more accessible to the public, help educators incorporate these programs into their curriculum, and develop additional resources focused on Black History for students and families to engage with.”

“It is our moral imperative to tell the truth about our past to finally reconcile with this nation’s history of racism and white nationalism, and our legislation will serve as a vital component in our fight to do just that,” said Representative Jamaal Bowman Ed.D (NY-16). “The truth is under attack by white supremacists attempting to ban Black history at all levels of education, but we know that a democracy cannot exist without access to truth. As a Black man and an educator, I cannot emphasize enough how important it is for this nation to collectively commit to learning from our past. Senator Booker’sand my legislation invests $10 million over 5 years to support African American history education programs that will be available for students, parents, and teachers. The moment we are in requires a clear-eyed effort to ensure that everyone has access to resources and education that accurately recount African American history – including how the Black struggle for freedom has strengthened our society for all Americans, and brought us closer to realizing the potential of our democracy.”

Booker and Bowman’s legislation invests $10 million over 5 years in the National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) to support African American history education programs that are voluntarily available for students, parents, and educators. 

This bill will help the NMAAHC expand and improve upon their work in a variety of ways, including:

• Developing and maintaining a variety of accessible resources to promote an understanding of African American history. This includes a collection of digital content, housed on the NMAAHC website, to assist educators, students, and families across the country in teaching about and engaging with African American history
• Engaging with the public through programming, resources, and social media to increase awareness of African American history through a social justice and anti-bias lens
• Convening experts and creating and disseminating scholarly work
• Translating new and existing NMAAHC work into multiple languages

Further, the bill supports the NMAAHC’s work to increase national capacity for African American history education, including:

• Developing and disseminating high-quality pedagogy related to teaching African American history
• Providing opportunities for Professional Development for early childhood, elementary, and secondary teachers
• Designing and implementing a teacher fellowship program
• Engaging with local and state leaders interested in incorporating these resources in curricula

The Original Co-sponsors of this legislation in the Senate include Senators: Menendez (D-NJ), Feinstein (D-CA), Padilla (D-CA), Klobuchar (D-MN), Murphy (D-CT), Van Hollen (D-MD), Sanders (I-VT), Welch (D-VT), and Brown (D-OH).

The full text of the legislation can be viewed here.

For a section-by-section on the legislation, click here.

United States Mint Begins Shipping 2023 American Women Quarters™ Program Coins Honoring Bessie Coleman January 3

The United States Mint (Mint) began shipping the first coin in the 2023 American Women Quarters (AWQ) Program.  The Mint facilities at Philadelphia and Denver manufacture these circulating quarters honoring Bessie Coleman.

Bessie Coleman was a pilot, advocate, and pioneer who flew to great heights as the first African American and first Native American woman pilot, as well as the first African American to earn an international pilot’s license.  Her determination and strong will continue to inspire today.

“The first coin of the 2023 American Women’s Quarters™ Program honors the life and legacy of Bessie Coleman,” said Mint Director Ventris C. Gibson.  “The woman known as “Brave Bessie” defied the odds and became an aviator.  Her tenacious drive and fearless personality helped pave the way for future generations.”

The reverse (tails) depicts Bessie Coleman as she suits up in preparation for flight.  Her expression is reflective of her determination to take to the skies, the only place she experienced a freedom she did not have on the ground.  The inscriptions are “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” “QUARTER DOLLAR,” “E PLURIBUS UNUM,” “BESSIE COLEMAN,” and “6.15.1921,” the date Coleman received her pilot’s license.  The reverse was designed by United States Mint Artistic Infusion Program Designer Chris Costello and sculpted by United States Mint Medallic Artist Eric David Custer.

“As I researched Bessie Coleman’s life, I discovered that the existing photographs and illustrations of her were posed and very familiar,” said Costello.  “I challenged myself to create an original, never-before-seen portrait that was not based on any known photo. My wife and young daughter, who are of African and Native American heritage, modeled for my drawing that depicts her in a more active posture—readying her goggles as she takes to the skies.  In the background, her Curtiss “Jenny” biplane is seen soaring through the clouds.”

Costello further provides a deeper insight of the image of Bessie Coleman.

“This new portrait of Bessie Coleman depicts her fierce determination and unyielding resolve to become a licensed pilot during a time of stiff opposition to ambitious women of color,” said Costello.

The obverse (heads) depicts a portrait of George Washington originally composed and sculpted by Laura Gardin Fraser to mark George Washington’s 200th birthday.  Though her work was a recommended design for the 1932 quarter, then-Treasury Secretary Mellon ultimately selected the familiar John Flanagan design.  Of Fraser, Director Gibson said, “I am proud that the new obverse design of George Washington is by one of the most prolific women sculptors of the early 20th century.  Laura Gardin Fraser’s work is lauded in both numismatic and artistic circles.  Ninety years after she intended for it to do so, her obverse design has fittingly taken its place on the quarter.”

Obverse inscriptions are “LIBERTY,” “IN GOD WE TRUST,” and “2023.”  The design is common to all quarters issued in the series. 

Coins featuring additional honorees will also ship in 2023 through 2025.

View images of the Bessie Coleman quarter here.

Each 2023 AWQ honoree is a powerful, inspiring example of the breadth and depth of accomplishments being celebrated through this historic coin program.

In addition to Bessie Coleman, the four women who will be honored in 2023 are:  

• Jovita Idar – a Mexican-American journalist, activist, teacher, and suffragist.  She devoted her life to fighting against separatist ideologies and sought to create a better future for Mexican-Americans. 
• Edith Kanakaʻole – an indigenous Hawaiian composer, chanter, dancer, teacher, and entertainer.  Her moʻolelo, or stories, served to rescue aspects of Hawaiian history, customs, and traditions that were disappearing due to the cultural bigotry of the time.
• Eleanor Roosevelt – first lady, author, reformer, and leader.  As chairperson of the United Nations Human Rights Commission, where she oversaw the creation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and as the chair of the President’s Commission on the Status of Women, she advocated diligently for the civil liberties and needs of the poor, minorities, and the disadvantaged. 
• Maria Tallchief – America’s first prima ballerina, broke barriers as a Native American ballerina who exhibited strength and resilience both on and off the stage.  

The range of accomplishments and experiences of these extraordinary women speaks to the contributions women have always made in the history of our country.  Coleman was a trailblazing pilot who paved the way for many.  Idar and Roosevelt were social justice advocates who were both ahead of their time with their ideas and ideals, and  Kanakaʻole and Tallchief spoke up for and represented indigenous women in their respective cultures.

Authorized by Public Law 116-330, the American Women Quarters Program features coins with reverse (tails) designs emblematic of the accomplishments and contributions of American women.  Beginning in 2022 and continuing through 2025, the Mint is issuing five quarters in each of these years.  The ethnically, racially, and geographically diverse group of individuals honored through this program reflects a wide range of accomplishments and fields, including suffrage, civil rights, abolition, government, humanities, science, space, and the arts.  

Please consult with your local banks regarding the availability of AWQ Program quarters honoring Bessie Coleman in late January and early February.

Illustrated Black History: Honoring the Iconic and the Unseen by George McCalman

A gorgeous collection of 145 original portraits that celebrates Black pioneers—famous and little-known--in politics, science, literature, music, and more—with biographical reflections, all created and curated by an award-winning graphic designer.

Illustrated Black History is a breathtaking collection of original portraits depicting black heroes—both famous and unsung—who made their mark on activism, science, politics, business, medicine, technology, food, arts, entertainment, and more. Each entry includes a lush drawing or painting by artist George McCalman, along with an insightful essay summarizing the person’s life story.

The 145 entries range from the famous to the little-known, from literary luminary James Baldwin to documentarian Madeline Anderson, who produced “I Am Somebody” about the 1969 strike of mostly female hospital workers; from Aretha Franklin to James and Eloyce Gist, who had a traveling ministry in the early 1900s; from Colin Kaepernick to Guion S. Bluford, the first Black person to travel into space.

Beautifully designed with over 300 unique four-color artworks and accessible to readers of all ages, this eye-opening, educational, dynamic, and timely compendium pays homage to Black Americans and their achievements, and showcases the depth and breadth of Black genius.

CHECK OUT THE BOOK ON AMAZON

Stoutsburg Sourland African American Museum Awarded $600,000 Mellon Foundation Grant

The Stoutsburg Sourland African American Museum (SSAAM) has been awarded a $600,000 grant from the Mellon Foundation. This two-year grant will support organizational capacity-building, interpretation of historic sites, and cultural education programming at the only museum in central New Jersey to tell the story of African Americans from the transatlantic slave trade to the present day.

SSAAM is located at the National Historic Register-listed Mt. Zion AME Church in Skillman. The Mt. Zion congregation was originally organized in 1866 by African American descendants of free and enslaved people who lived in the Sourland region. In 1899, the church was moved to its present location at the base of Sourland Mountain, on land donated by members of the True family. This year, SSAAM – together with the Sourland Conservancy and the support of generous donors – was able to acquire the adjacent five-acre True Farmstead. The historic farmstead was once home to an African American Civil War veteran as well as descendants of Friday Truehart, who was brought to New Jersey from South Carolina as an enslaved 13-year-old boy.

SSAAM looks forward to the expanded hiring, program development, and historic site interpretation that this grant will enable in 2023 and 2024. With funding from the Mellon Foundation, SSAAM will continue to develop its heritage garden at the True Farmstead and transform the farmhouse into a vibrant exhibition and education space. The museum plans to expand with the addition of staff in education, marketing, and fund development. Grant funds will also be used to hire consultants on local African American history, heritage gardening, and Black culinary traditions, as well as to produce educational materials for general visitors and school outreach.

“SSAAM’s distinctive surroundings in the Sourland region, with its powerful and deeply rooted African American history and larger-than-life historical figures, allow the museum to offer a broader and truer vision of the past to inspire future generations,” said SSAAM Executive Director Donnetta Johnson. “SSAAM is grateful to the Mellon Foundation for this grant, which positions the museum to serve as a leading cultural organization in central New Jersey and beyond.”

The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation is the nation’s largest supporter of the arts and humanities. Since 1969, the Foundation has been guided by its core belief that the humanities and arts are essential to human understanding. The Foundation believes that the arts and humanities are where we express our complex humanity, and that everyone deserves the beauty, transcendence, and freedom that can be found there. Through our grants, we seek to build just communities enriched by meaning and empowered by critical thinking, where ideas and imagination can thrive.

Television series in develpment about the 'Six Triple Eight’ All-Black Female WWII Battalion

BY GEORGE L COOK III AfricanAmericanReports

BY GEORGE L COOK III AfricanAmericanReports

Screenwriter, Krystal M. Harris has been working on a project about the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, nicknamed the " Six Triple Eight ". The 6888 was an all-black battalion of the Women's Army Corps and was the only all-black, all-female battalion sent overseas during World War II.

I reached out to Krystal about her project with a few questions and you can check out our interview about her 6888 project below.

Screenwriter Krystal M. Harris

AAREPORTS: Tell us a little about yourself. How did you start writing, become a screenwriter, and what other projects have you worked on?

Krystal Harris: My name is Krystal M. Harris and I’ve been writing professionally since about 2008, when I was commissioned to write for Beacon Pictures on their slate. I was still in college then but I had completed a few television pilots and even landed a pitch at the formerly titled, ABC Family. My foray into screenwriting came from being a frustrated actor that was often typecast as “Hot girl #1” or “Bikini Babe.” I come from a strong lineage of powerful Black women and for me, even though I understood dues had to be paid, the role options were limited and did not speak to the truth of the women I grew up around... the woman I was. So, I turned my disappointment into determination and began writing roles that I wished I could audition for. That quickly turned into me writing roles that were not just for me, but for other actresses I saw coming up, ones who inspired me and who I knew were not getting their true talent showcased.

My first completed “original” project was called “IMPOSSIBLE: A SCANDAL FAN FILM.” I wrote this after a season break of the hit show SCANDAL and did a what-if scenario regarding Olivia and Fitz. It was wildly popular and was even shared by some of the cast of the show. I also wrote a television film for Teen Nick entitled, THE WONDERGIRLS, that was the first exploration of K-Pop in America. In fact, this endeavor was just profiled in Billboard this year... it may have been ahead of its time, but the fact remains clear that K-Pop was destined to be a hit in America. Growing up in the Philippines with my father during the summers, I already saw its influence and so it was important to bring that awareness to America... whether I was too early or not didn’t matter because it worked and it has become a cult favorite for Wonder girls fans. One of my projects that I am most proud to have worked on is The New Jim Crow: Majority Rules, which tells the story of a conservative news reporter whose fiancé becomes the latest face in the Black Lives Matter Movement after he is gunned down, unarmed. This series pitch pilot that I wrote and produced, examines life from the side of the women who are left behind to pick up the pieces and the power they uncover through the pain of their tragedy.

You are doing a television series on the all African American female WWII unit , The 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion. How did you find out about this unit and what inspired you to want to tell their story?

The 6888th United States Central Postal Battalion has been on my radar since 2019 when my mother sent me an article about them and begged me to write about them. Back during the 6888th’s time, the Army was still segregated based both on race and gender. In fact, they were enlisted in the newly formed women’s branch of the Army called the Women’s Army Corps (formerly the Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps).

My mother served in the Women’s Army Corps and was one of the last graduating classes to be segregated based on gender. My great- aunt before her served during WWII in the Women’s Army Corps. So for me this was a story that was as much about uncovering the hidden legacy of the 6888th, as it was about uncovering my own fierce identity and understanding the strength that I possessed to say no to the status quo, and forge my own path. I am a direct result of these women and their accomplishments so I felt it was not only my honor, but my duty to give them a voice and have their story told by a descendant of one of their own. I completed a feature film in 2020 and then adapted that screenplay into a television limited series.

AAREPORTS: What type of research was involved with the project and did you reach out to the US Army and if so were they helpful?

Researching the 6888th before they received their Congressional Gold Medal was difficult indeed. The information was out there but you really had to know what to look for. I had to comb through military documents, newspaper clippings, interviews buried within general war footage of the time, and speak with Army personnel to ensure I was getting the tone right and as much of the facts right. The research took me about nine months before I was able to piece together the story. Not just the story I wanted to tell, but their story that needed to be told. Now, there is a little more information out there but back in 2019 when I was urging my management team to take a look at this story... it was deemed as “not timely, or important.” I vehemently disagreed. And as we see today, their story is almost comparable to that of Hidden Figures. It’s just sad that we have to uncover this history instead of it being taught to us.

What was most remarkable was the fact that there were stories within stories when it comes to this battalion, when people get a chance to see my series they will see that race-passing was prevalent within the unit, that there were injustices committed from every side of the military, and that the women were so incredibly resolute and strong with what they endured, that they healed a nation while also healing deep wounds within themselves. This is not just a story about delivering mail... the people behind this, the character they possessed... that is the story and it is incredible.

AAREPORTS: I understand that initially you were thinking of doing a movie on the unit. What made you change your mind and go with a series instead?

I do have a completed feature that has been shopped around Hollywood. The feedback I received from the companies that read it was something I agreed with. It’s too big. What they did, is massive and to tell it, even in a two-hour film, still only barely hints at the accomplishments they were able to achieve. Being a filmmaker, I understand the necessity for collaboration in this art form. I take notes from trusted professionals who understand story and ultimately... even though I’d love to have this premiere in theaters... it would be a disservice to their legacy to cut them off at two hours of screen time. No, these women and what they did deserve more. So I made a limited series... with a spin-off option too.

This way we can understand the women more in depth, we can understand what drove them to join the military, what drove them to pass for white in some cases, what drove them to stand up for themselves during a time when our voices were barely considered as human. For me, you need time to be able to get behind their psyche and their mission. You need time to understand them because then you can fully understand the incredible accomplishment that they achieved and how that was able to outlive them.

AAREPORTS: Where does the project stand right now and what challenges have you faced in getting it off the ground?

Right now, I have had some recent success with the proposed series and accompanying series bible. It has placed in several screenwriting competitions and garnered some incredible feedback. We do have something in the works, but I can’t speak too much on it right now. Just know I was in Europe this summer scouting locations and so things are definitely moving along. The main challenge I have faced in getting this story told is that, I am a relatively (to the masses) unknown writer. Add that to the fact that I’m also a Black Woman, which as this story will tell, comes with its own set of challenges. But these women gave me strength in continuing to pursue avenues to make sure they were recognized the right way.

I don’t have deep pockets, I can’t just make the story on my own, so yes... help is needed. However, it is difficult to gain such needed help in an industry that is still finding its footing in the age of diversity and inclusion. I took to social media during this summer and started publicizing the project. Writers are notoriously secretive but I couldn’t gain the traction needed unless I went public and so I did and what I found was people craved this story. They wanted this story. I have received countless emails from women who served who are so incredibly excited to have me at the helm of this story and that to me is the biggest accomplishment -besides getting it made- because it means my finger was right on the pulse. The audience is there, now it’s just up to the producers to recognize that and give the people what they want.

AAREPORTS: Are there any actors that we might recognize attached to the project as of yet?

I can’t say who we have attached to this, but I can tell you who I have envisioned playing the roles since 2019. Nicole Beharie is my pick for Charity Adams, the leader of the Six Triple Eight. I describe her as headstrong, powerful, and confident and she knows she must be this way in order to survive in a white-male dominated military. She is the epitome of strength and resilience. Her first lieutenant Abbie Campbell in my mind can be played by no one other than Michaela Coel. Abbie is smart, but she isn’t afraid to speak her mind even when it’s not “smart” to do so. She has wit, but it comes with a whole lot of grit. A force of nature and that is how I see Michaela. If you see a picture of the real Charity and Abbie, I think you will agree. It’s them, hands down.

AAREPORTS: When do you think we will see your story about the 6888 on screen?

Television is a development beast, so it is anyone’s guess when it will actually premiere. However, I plan on keeping people informed as I understand the true hidden story, the one behind the headlines and articles, is something that audiences are asking for and it is something I plan on delivering.

Well that's our interview and I hope it inspires you to learn more about the "Six Triple Eight' and Krystal M. Harris' television series about them.

Learn more about the project here http://www.sixtripleeightseries.com and at http://www.krystalmuseinc.com

Follow Krystal Harris on Twitter at https://twitter.com/krystalmharris

Rep. John Lewis to be honored with postage stamp in 2023

The U.S. Postal Service has announced that the late congressman and civil rights icon John Lewis will be honored with a postage stamp in 2023.

This stamp celebrates the life and legacy of civil rights leader and U.S. Rep. John Lewis (1940-2020) of Georgia. Devoted to equality and justice for all Americans, Lewis spent more than 30 years in Congress steadfastly defending and building on key civil rights gains that he had helped achieve in the 1960s. Even in the face of hatred and violence, as well as some 45 arrests, Lewis remained resolute in his commitment to what he liked to call “good trouble.” The stamp features a photograph of Lewis taken by Marco Grob on assignment for the Aug. 26, 2013, issue of Time magazine. The selvage showcases a photograph of Lewis taken by Steve Schapiro in 1963 outside a workshop about nonviolent protest in Clarksdale, MS. Derry Noyes served as art director for this project.