Thursday, February 21, 2013

Civil Rights Progression

Look how far we've come! Let's keep moving!

#PROGRESS

2013 LA

Happy 150th Anniversary to the Emancipation Proclamation


This year marks the 150th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation (seen above). This single document changed the course of history in our country, leading us past dark centuries of slavery and into freedom, reconstruction, and civil rights.

The Emancipation Proclamation above does read:

Whereas, on the twenty-second day of September, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty-two, a proclamation was issued by the President of the United States, containing, among other things, the following, to wit: 

"That on the first day of January, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty-three, all person's held as slaves within any State or any designated part of a State, the people whereof shall then be in rebellion against the United States, shall be then, thenceforward, and forever, free; and the Executive government of the United States, including the military and naval authority thereof,will recognize and maintain the freedom of such persons, or any of them, in any efforts they may make for their actual freedom."

Slavery was officially abolished in 1865, however, it took one state almost 150 years to date to receive word on the dismantling of an era.  

On February 17, 2013, Mississippi, became the last state in the nation to ratify the 13th amendment to the Constitution of the United States. 

Wow.

2013 LA  

Black Activist, Actor, and Singer Paul Robeson On Racial Inequality

   Testimony before the House Un-American Activities Committee, June 12, 1956

"My father was a slave and my people died to build this country, and I'm going to stay right here and have a part of it, just like you. And no fascist-minded people like you will drive me from it. Is that clear?" ~ Paul Robeson 

2013 LA



Wednesday, February 6, 2013

Happy Birthday Mr. Bob Marley!


Bob Marley was born Nesta Robert Marley on February 6, 1945.

Mr. Marley was more than a Jamaican singer/song writer and musician, he was a proud activist of his homeland; forever bringing light to the horrid issues that long plagued his community through his music. The "Stir it up" singer spoke avidly about the atrocities of racism and why it shouldn't exist. He wanted so much for the white race and black race, to come together and unite as one for a greater good as he stated,

"Me, only have one ambition, y’know? I only have one thing I really like to see happen. I like to see mankind live together – black, white, Chinese, everyone – that’s all."


Speaking of freedom through his "redemption song" while screaming for all people to "Get up, stand up, stand up for your rights", made Marley an instant hit with an oppressed people. Due to his outreach through song and electrifying dance moves he touched people, he felt people, he nourished people, as a matter of fact one of Bob Marley's quotes was,

"My life don't mean nothing to me. My life is about people. If my life is just about me and my security, then me no want it." 

Those two quotes along with his picture quote seen above, was the true character of this man; unselfish, full of love, and all about helping people. Bob Marley understood that until mankind could live in peace with one another, that his job would never be done.

You are not physically here with us sir, but your words and music will live on forever within us. Thank you for your music, your efforts, and your love. 

We march on!

Happy Birthday Mr. Nesta Robert Marley, and may you continue to rest in peace.  

2013 LA 

Happy Birthday Ms. Rosa Parks!


Happy Birthday to "the mother of the freedom movement!" You are NEVER forgotten as we pay tribute to you during Black History month.

For more information on Ms. Rosa Parks, click here.

2013 LA