The Library of Congress is an excellent source of information in many areas, including the Black experience and civil rights.
To the Future,
The current administration, driven by far-right ideologies and hate-fueled politics, has launched a sustained assault on the principles of justice, equality, and the U.S. Constitution. Laws and policies are being weaponized to dismantle decades of racial progress, targeting Black communities with particular ferocity. Voting rights are under siege, systemic racism is being codified, and efforts to address historical inequities are being rolled back. This era is marked by a resurgence of white supremacy, the normalization of hate speech, and the deliberate erosion of protections for marginalized groups. Black people in the U.S. are facing heightened discrimination, economic disenfranchisement, and state-sanctioned violence. This is a dark chapter in American history, one where the ideals of democracy and equality are being sacrificed for the preservation of power and privilege. May future generations learn from this moment and fight to ensure such injustices are never repeated.
In solidarity,
Gary Dingle, President NAACP CFSSB
Current stories/ truths could be banned from history lessons in schools in the years to come if we continue the ways of the current right-wing administration. The US administration in 2025 has decided that diversity, equity, and inclusion are unnecessary. All data and research prove otherwise. The progress Black people have made to have equal access to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness is under attack.
The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) is one of the oldest and most influential civil rights organizations in the United States. Founded in 1909, the NAACP was established to fight for the rights of African Americans and to combat racial injustice, discrimination, and segregation.
Origins and Necessity
The NAACP was formed in response to the pervasive racial violence and systemic racism that African Americans faced in the early 20th century. The catalyst for its creation was the 1908 Springfield Race Riot in Illinois, where a white mob attacked Black residents and destroyed Black-owned businesses. This event highlighted the urgent need for a national organization to advocate for civil rights and racial equality.
The NAACP was founded on February 12, 1909, by a multiracial group of activists, including W.E.B. Du Bois, Ida B. Wells, Mary White Ovington, Moorfield Storey, and Oswald Garrison Villard. The organization’s mission was to ensure the political, educational, social, and economic equality of all persons and to eliminate racial hatred and discrimination.
First Officers
The first officers of the NAACP were:
President: Moorfield Storey (a white constitutional lawyer and former president of the American Bar Association)
Chairman of the Executive Committee: Oswald Garrison Villard (a white journalist and philanthropist)
Director of Publicity and Research: W.E.B. Du Bois (a prominent Black scholar and activist)
Treasurer: John E. Milholland (a white businessman and civil rights advocate)
Secretary: Mary White Ovington (a white suffragist and social worker)
Highlights of the NAACP’s History
Anti-Lynching Campaigns: In its early years, the NAACP focused on combating lynching and racial violence. It lobbied for federal anti-lynching legislation and raised awareness through publications like The Crisis, edited by W.E.B. Du Bois.
Legal Victories: The NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, led by Thurgood Marshall, played a pivotal role in challenging segregation in the courts. Key victories include:
Brown v. Board of Education (1954): The Supreme Court ruled that racial segregation in public schools was unconstitutional.
Smith v. Allwright (1944): The Court outlawed “white primaries,” which excluded Black voters from primary elections.
Civil Rights Movement: The NAACP was instrumental in the Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s. It supported the Montgomery Bus Boycott, the March on Washington, and the passage of landmark legislation like the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965.
Voting Rights Advocacy: The NAACP has consistently fought for voting rights, challenging discriminatory practices like poll taxes, literacy tests, and gerrymandering.
Economic and Social Justice: The organization has expanded its focus to address economic inequality, police brutality, and systemic racism in the criminal justice system.
Modern Initiatives: In recent years, the NAACP has advocated for criminal justice reform, environmental justice, and equitable access to education and healthcare.
Legacy
The NAACP remains a vital force in the fight for racial justice and equality. Its efforts have significantly advanced civil rights in the United States, and it continues to address contemporary issues affecting African Americans and other marginalized communities. Through litigation, advocacy, and grassroots organizing, the NAACP has left an indelible mark on American history.
Some prominent Black history stories include: the life of Martin Luther King Jr. as a civil rights leader, Harriet Tubman’s heroic role in the Underground Railroad, where she was nicknamed “Moses”, the story of Jesse Owens winning gold medals at the Olympics in Nazi Germany, Marian Anderson’s fight against segregation as a world-class singer, Shirley Chisholm becoming the first Black woman elected to Congress, and Jackie Robinson breaking barriers in Major League Baseball as the first African American player;. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6]
Other notable stories include: [7]
- Fannie Lou Hamer: A key figure in the civil rights movement, particularly for securing voting rights for African Americans. [7]
- Barbara Jordan: The first Black woman elected to the Texas state senate and the first Black Texan in Congress. [8]
- “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings”: Maya Angelou’s powerful memoir detailing her childhood experiences with trauma and finding strength through literature. [9]
- “Henry’s Freedom Box”: A children’s book about a true story on the Underground Railroad. [10]
- “Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History”: A collection of biographies highlighting accomplished African American women across various fields. [11]
[1] https://www.blackillustrations.com/blog/celebrating-black-history
[2] https://www.buzzfeed.com/madisonmcgee/black-historical-figures
[3] https://www.savethechildren.org/us/charity-stories/black-history-month-reading-list-children-books
[4] https://www.commonlit.org/blog/10-reading-passages-celebrating-african-americans-de9d500c3e2/
[5] https://kinginstitute.stanford.edu/robinson-jackie
[6] https://dc.etsu.edu/etd/1510/
[9] https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/life/entertainment/g32842006/black-history-books/
[11] https://www.commonsensemedia.org/book-reviews/little-leaders-bold-women-in-black-history
List of web links for Black History Month, categorized for easy navigation:
Educational Resources:
- The Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH): Founded by Carter G. Woodson, the “father of Black history,” this organization is a treasure trove of information. https://asalh.org/
- Black Past: An online reference center with a vast collection of primary documents, biographies, and historical essays. https://www.blackpast.org/
- The National Museum of African American History and Culture: Explore the rich history and culture of African Americans through online exhibits and resources. https://nmaahc.si.edu/
- The Library of Congress: Discover a wealth of digital materials related to African American history and culture. https://www.loc.gov/collections/african-american-history-and-culture/
- The Civil Rights Digital Library: A comprehensive collection of primary source materials documenting the Civil Rights Movement. http://crdl.usg.edu/
Inspiring Figures:
- The NAACP’s Online Exhibition: Learn about the major personalities, events, and achievements that shaped the NAACP’s history. https://www.naacp.org/find-resources/history-explained/naacp-online-exhibition/
- The Martin Luther King, Jr. Research and Education Institute: Explore the life and legacy of Dr. King through speeches, timelines, and educational resources. https://kinginstitute.stanford.edu/
- The National Women’s History Museum: Discover the contributions of African American women throughout history. https://www.womenshistory.org/
Local Resources:
- Your Local NAACP Branch: Connect with your local branch for events, resources, and opportunities to get involved. https://naacp.org/find-local-unit
- Local Museums and Historical Societies: Many local institutions offer exhibits and programs related to Black history in your community.
Additional Resources:
- Black History Month.gov: The official website for Black History Month, with information on events, resources, and educational materials. https://blackhistorymonth.gov/
- PBS Black Culture Connection: Explore a variety of documentaries, interviews, and articles related to Black history and culture. https://www.pbs.org/black-culture/
- Create a dedicated Black History Month page on your website.
- Use engaging visuals, such as photos and videos.
- Promote your Black History Month content on social media.
- Encourage your members to share resources with their networks.
By sharing these resources, you can help educate and inspire your community about the rich history and contributions of African Americans.
Cultural Expression Fest
Join us for an enchanting evening that celebrates the artistic contributions of African Americans. This event showcases a variety of performances that encapsulate the beauty and struggles faced throughout history. Be ready to experience art that evokes deep emotions and delivers powerful messages.
Musical Heritage
Experience the melodies that gave voice to movements and celebrate the contributions of historic and contemporary musicians. Enjoy performances that not only entertain but shed light on rich cultural narratives.
Literary Works Showcase
Join us to celebrate the written word and hear the powerful voices behind influential literature. Explore how the written stories of Black authors have shaped culture and inspired generations. We invite you to share in their messages of resilience and hope.
The Great Migration (1916-1970) refers to the mass movement of African Americans from the rural South to urban areas in the North and West. It unfolded in two main waves:
First Wave (1916-1940): This was driven by the need for better economic opportunities, escaping Jim Crow segregation, and fleeing racial violence in the South. African Americans sought jobs in industrial cities like Chicago, Detroit, and New York, where the demand for labor in factories was high, especially during World War I.
Second Wave (1941-1970): Following World War II, the migration continued, but now it was also fueled by better educational opportunities, civil rights activism, and the rise of the Civil Rights Movement. Many moved to cities like Los Angeles, Philadelphia, and Boston, seeking a better quality of life and freedom from systemic racism.
Impact:
- The Great Migration dramatically reshaped the demographics of American cities.
- It played a key role in the development of the Harlem Renaissance and cultural shifts in art, music (notably jazz and blues), and literature.
- It also contributed to the political and social changes of the mid-20th century, including the strengthening of African American political power in northern cities.
This movement fundamentally altered the cultural, political, and social landscape of the United States and left a lasting legacy on Black identity and American society
Black athletes were not allowed to compete with, against, or train with White people. So, Black people formed their own leagues and teams.
The Enduring Legacy of Black Athletes Overcoming Segregation
Throughout history, Black athletes have faced immense challenges and discrimination, yet their perseverance and talent have shone through, inspiring generations. The journey of these athletes was not only about personal triumph but also about challenging the systemic racism entrenched in sports and society. From Jesse Owens defying the Nazis at the 1936 Olympics to Jackie Robinson breaking the color barrier in Major League Baseball, the stories of Black athletes overcoming segregation are a testament to the human spirit. These individuals not only broke records but also shattered stereotypes, proving that talent knows no color or boundaries.
Despite the odds stacked against them, these trailblazers refused to be silenced, using their platforms to advocate for civil rights and social justice. They inspired countless others to stand up against injustice, showing that the fight for equality extends far beyond the arena. Their victories, both on and off the field, paved the way for a more inclusive and equitable future in sports and society. It is essential to recognize the sacrifices made and lessons learned from their struggles, as they crafted a narrative of hope and solidarity.
As we reflect on this complex and crucial chapter of history, let us honor the courage, resilience, and transformative impact of Black athletes who refused to be defined by the color of their skin. By embracing their stories, we ensure that their legacies continue to empower future generations in the pursuit of equity and justice.
Segregation in sports during the 20th century, particularly up to 1985, was a complex issue reflecting the broader racial tensions and discriminatory practices prevalent in society.1 Here’s an overview:
Early 20th Century (1900-1940s):
- Racial Segregation: Sports were largely segregated, mirroring societal norms.2 African American athletes were excluded from most professional and many amateur leagues.3
- “Gentlemen’s Agreement” in Baseball: Major League Baseball (MLB) had a “gentlemen’s agreement” that effectively banned Black players.4 This led to the rise of the Negro Leagues, providing a platform for talented Black baseball players.
- Other Sports: Similar segregation existed in other sports like basketball and football, though some integration existed in college sports in certain regions.
Mid-20th Century (1940s-1960s):
- Breaking the Color Barrier: Jackie Robinson’s historic debut in MLB in 1947 with the Brooklyn Dodgers marked a turning point.5 It paved the way for other Black athletes to enter previously all-white professional leagues.
- Slow Integration: While some progress was made, integration was gradual and often met with resistance.6 Many teams and leagues remained segregated or had quotas on the number of Black players.7
- Civil Rights Movement: The Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s played a crucial role in challenging segregation in sports and pushing for greater equality.
Late 20th Century (1970s-1985):
- Continued Progress: By this period, most professional sports leagues were officially integrated. However, challenges remained in terms of equal opportunities, representation in leadership positions, and addressing racial bias.
- Increased Visibility: Black athletes became increasingly prominent and successful in various sports, serving as role models and inspiring future generations.
Key Figures and Events:
- Jackie Robinson: Broke the color barrier in MLB.8
- Jesse Owens: African American track and field star who won four gold medals at the 1936 Berlin Olympics.9
- Althea Gibson: First Black woman to win Grand Slam tennis titles.
- Bill Russell: Dominant basketball player for the Boston Celtics, known for his activism.10
Additional Considerations:
- Gender: Segregation also affected women in sports, with limited opportunities and resources compared to men.
- Other Minorities: While the focus is often on Black athletes, other minority groups also faced discrimination and exclusion in sports.
- Regional Differences: Segregation patterns varied across different regions of the United States.
The history of segregation in sports is a testament to the struggles and triumphs of athletes who fought for equality. While significant progress has been made, the legacy of segregation continues to impact sports today, highlighting the ongoing need for diversity, inclusion, and social justice.
The Bad:
Race Riots and Violence:
The 1919 Chicago Race Riot was one of the deadliest in U.S. history, sparked by the drowning of a Black teenager, Eugene Williams, who crossed an invisible racial boundary at a segregated beach. The violence, fueled by white mobs, lasted a week and left 38 people dead and hundreds injured, exposing deep racial tensions.
Segregation and Housing Discrimination:
Despite being a northern state, Illinois practiced de facto segregation, especially in Chicago. Restrictive covenants and redlining confined Black residents to overcrowded neighborhoods like Bronzeville, while white residents resisted integration through violence and intimidation.
Police Brutality and Systemic Racism:
Chicago has a long history of police brutality against Black communities. The 1969 assassination of Black Panther Party leaders Fred Hampton and Mark Clark by Chicago police and the FBI highlighted the state’s violent repression of Black activism. Decades later, systemic racism in policing continues to plague Black communities.
Economic Disparities:
Despite progress, Black communities in Illinois, particularly in Chicago, face persistent economic inequality. Neighborhoods like Englewood and Austin suffer from disinvestment, high unemployment, and lack of access to quality education and healthcare, perpetuating cycles of poverty.