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ePluribus: America is an on-line contemporary American culture magazine that incorporates the original concept of our nation's motto to provide cultural news coverage of America. Our motto is Humanity Starts With Culture.

Anti-Lynching Protest Song ‘Strange Fruit’ Marks Its Haunting Recording Date

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On April 20, 1939, Billie Holiday recorded the first great protest song of the Civil Rights Movement, ‘Strange Fruit.’

“Strange Fruit” is a powerful protest song written by Abel Meeropol and made famous by Billie Holiday’s haunting rendition in 1939. The song is a stark and moving indictment of the lynching of African Americans in the United States, drawing comparisons between the hanging bodies of Black people and the strange fruit of the South.

 

Background and Inspiration

Abel Meeropol, a Jewish schoolteacher from the Bronx, wrote “Strange Fruit” in 1937 after seeing a photograph of a lynching in the South. The image of the lifeless bodies of Black people hanging from trees haunted him, and he felt compelled to write a song that would expose the horrors of lynching and the racism that fueled it.

Billie Holiday’s Rendition

Billie Holiday, an African American singer known for her powerful and emotive voice, first performed “Strange Fruit” in 1939 at a nightclub in New York City. The song was met with both praise and controversy. Some people were deeply moved by the song’s message and Holiday’s performance, while others were outraged by its graphic depiction of lynching.

Impact and Legacy

“Strange Fruit” quickly became a powerful anthem of the Civil Rights Movement. It was performed at rallies and protests, and it helped to raise awareness of the ongoing problem of lynching in the United States. The song also had a significant impact on the music industry, paving the way for more socially conscious music.

As described by African Archives on X, In 1939, Holiday received a warning from the Federal Bureau of Narcotics to stop singing the song. This order was led by commissioner Harry Anslinger. He had a mission to eradicate all drugs everywhere, and believed jazz music was the problem. His attack was racially biased. Holiday was subsequently put on trial –The United States of America vs. Billie Holiday – despite the struggling performer just wanting to recover, but was sent to prison and her cabaret license was revoked. That didn’t keep her down. She continued to perform “Strange Fruit” even at a sold out show at Carnegie Hall.

Arslinger’s team arrested her on her hospital bed cutting off her methadone medication after claiming to have found heroin in her bedroom. I0 days later, Holiday died.

Today, “Strange Fruit” is still regarded as one of the most powerful and moving protest songs ever written. It stands as a testament to the horrors of racism and the ongoing struggle for justice and equality.

Notable Performances

  • Billie Holiday’s original recording of “Strange Fruit” in 1939 remains the definitive version of the song.
  • Nina Simone’s rendition of “Strange Fruit” in the 1960s is also highly acclaimed.
  • The song has been covered by many other artists, including Miles Davis, John Coltrane, and Sting.

Cultural Significance

“Strange Fruit” has had a lasting impact on American culture. It has been featured in films, television shows, and documentaries, and it has been used as a teaching tool in schools and universities. The song continues to be a powerful reminder of the history of racism in the United States and the ongoing struggle for justice.

“Break the Siege” Freedom Flotilla Sets Sail on Palestinian Aid Mission

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The 2024 flotilla to Gaza is a planned flotilla of ships that will attempt to break the Israeli blockade of the Gaza Strip to deliver aid to besieged Palestinians. The flotilla is being organized by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, a coalition of international human rights groups.

Background

The Gaza Strip has been under Israeli blockade since 2007. The blockade has severely restricted the movement of people and goods in and out of Gaza. This has had a devastating impact on the economy of Gaza and the living conditions of its residents.

The 2010 Flotilla Raid

In 2010, a flotilla of six ships carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza was intercepted by the Israeli navy. The Israeli navy boarded the ships and killed nine activists on board. The raid was widely condemned by the international community.

The 2015 Flotilla Flotilla III

In 2015, another flotilla of ships attempted to break the Israeli blockade of Gaza. The Israeli navy intercepted the ships and prevented them from reaching Gaza. “It started from Sweden on 10 May 2015 and stopped in several European cities along the way to Gaza. On 29 June 2015 the Swedish-flagged vessel “Marianne” was intercepted by the Israeli navy in international waters about 100 nautical miles from the Palestinian coast of Gaza.

The 2016 “Women’s Boat to Gaza”

The Women’s Boat to Gaza (WBG) was an initiative by the Freedom Flotilla Coalition in 2016 to challenge the Israeli naval blockade of the Gaza Strip. The Freedom Flotilla Coalition launched the Women’s Boat to Gaza to raise awareness of the role of women in advancing the Palestinian struggle in the Palestinian Territories and diaspora. The Women’s Boat to Gaza also supported the goals of the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions campaign:

  1. Ending its occupation and colonization of all Arab lands and dismantling the Wall;
  2. Recognizing the fundamental rights of the Arab-Palestinian citizens of Israel to full equality; and
  3. Respecting, protecting and promoting the rights of Palestinian refugees to return to their homes and properties as stipulated in UN Resolution 194.

The 2024 Flotilla

The 2024 flotilla is the latest attempt to break the Israeli blockade of Gaza. The flotilla is expected to set sail in May 2024. The flotilla will consist of several ships carrying humanitarian aid and human rights activists.

The organizers of the flotilla hope that it will raise awareness of the plight of the people of Gaza and pressure Israel to lift the blockade, deliver desperately needed aid, and end the on-going war started Oct. 7, 2023 the international community and the UN has strongly condemned as a genocide. The Israeli government has said that it will not allow the flotilla to reach Gaza. Click HERE for the official FFC statement and to track the aid ship.  

Marking 162nd Emancipation Day in The District of Columbia

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Emancipation Day in the District of Columbia commemorates the ending of slavery in the nation’s capital on Apr 16, 1862. 

On April 16, 1862, President Abraham Lincoln signed the District of Columbia Compensated Emancipation Act, which ended slavery in Washington, D.C. and freed over 3,000 enslaved individuals.

History:

  • On Apr 16, 1862, President Abraham Lincoln signed the Compensated Emancipation Act, which freed over 3,100 enslaved people in the District of Columbia.
  • The act was part of a broader effort by the Lincoln administration to end slavery in the United States.
  • The following year, President Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, which freed all enslaved people in Confederate-held territory.
  • Emancipation Day has been celebrated in the District of Columbia since 1866.

 

 

 

 

 

Celebrations:

  • Emancipation Day is a public holiday in the District of Columbia.
  • The day is typically celebrated with parades, festivals, and other events.
  • The National Park Service also hosts a variety of programs and events to commemorate Emancipation Day.

Significance:

  • Emancipation Day is a reminder of the struggle for freedom and equality in the United States.
  • The day is also a time to celebrate the contributions of African Americans to the District of Columbia and the nation.

September 17, 1862:

  • Battle of Antietam Prompts the Emancipation Proclamation and Ends Potential European Intervention in the Civil War.

District of Columbia Emancipation Act of 1862

Historians discussed the District of Columbia Compensated Emancipation Act of April 16, 1862. The act freed about 3,100 slaves in the nation’s capital and compensated owners up to $300 for each former slave. The panel also talked about the influence the act had on the Emancipation Proclamation, which was issued eight months later on January 1, 1863. The National Archives hosted this 90-minute event on April 16, the annual Emancipation Day holiday in the District of Columbia.

America’s Gratuity Culture Faces Tipping Point

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Tipping is a common practice in the United States, where customers are expected to leave a gratuity for service staff in restaurants, hotels, and other establishments. The amount of the tip is typically a percentage of the bill, and it is customary to tip between 15% and 20% for good service.

There are a number of reasons why tipping is so prevalent in the United States. One reason is that tipped employees often earn below the minimum wage, and tips make up a significant portion of their income. Another reason is that tipping is seen as a way to show appreciation for good service. However, tipping has gotten aggressively out-of-hand in America that many states are facing a tipping point when it comes to the use of the tip credit system. 

In 2022, Washingtonians voted to approve a ballot measure that would eliminate the tip credit. Read all about it HERE. 

Nevertheless, tipping can also be a source of controversy. Some people argue that it is unfair to expect customers to subsidize the wages of tipped employees, and that employers should pay their employees a fair wage without relying on tips. Others argue that tipping is a voluntary gesture and that customers should only tip if they feel that the service was good.

Here are some of the pros and cons of tipping:

Pros of Tipping:

  • Tipping can help to ensure that service staff are paid a fair wage.
  • Tipping can motivate service staff to provide good service.
  • Tipping can be a way to show appreciation for good service.

Cons of Tipping:

  • Tipping can be seen as a way for employers to avoid paying their employees a fair wage.
  • Tipping can be a source of stress for customers who feel pressured to tip, even if they don’t feel that the service was good.
  • Tipping can be a barrier to entry for people who cannot afford to tip.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to tip is a personal one. However, it is important to be aware of the pros and cons of tipping before making a decision.

Trump Makes History as First Former President to be Criminally Indicted

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The first-ever criminal trial of a former U.S. president kicked-off with jury selection in NYC.

According to official reports, “Trump has been indicted on 91 charges across four separate criminal cases. However, some of those charges have since been dismissed, bringing the current total to 88. In the Georgia case accusing him of trying to overturn the results of the 2020 election in the Peach State, the former president faces 10 felony counts.” USA Today reports that the presumptive Republican presidential nominee “faces 34 felony counts that each carry a maximum sentence of four years, although New York law caps such sentences at 20 years.”

The first-ever criminal trial of Donald J. Trump, a former U.S. president, is a historic event in American history. The former president’s first trial was held in the United States District Court for the District of Columbia on Jan. 16, 2023. Trump was accused of incitement of insurrection in connection with the Jan. 6, 2021 attack on the United States Capitol.

The prosecution presented evidence that the former president had made numerous public statements in the weeks leading up to the January 6 attack in which he falsely claimed that the 2020 presidential election had been stolen from him. The prosecution also presented evidence that the former president had summoned his supporters to Washington, D.C., on January 6 and told them to “fight like hell” to overturn the election results.

The defense argued that the former president’s statements were protected by the First Amendment and that he did not incite the violence that occurred on January 6. The defense also argued that the former president was not responsible for the actions of his supporters.

The trial lasted for two weeks and ended with the former president being acquitted on all charges. The acquittal was a controversial decision and was met with mixed reactions from the public. Some people believed that the former president should have been held accountable for his actions, while others believed that the First Amendment protected his right to free speech.

Donald Trump appeared inside Manhattan Criminal Court on Monday as the first criminal trial against him began with jury selection. No jurors were selected from the dozens screened.

It marked the first time a former president has gone to trial over criminal charges — which stem from six-figure hush-money payments the ex-president allegedly made to former porn star Stormy Daniels and Playboy Playmate Karen McDougal ahead of the 2016 election.

According to official reports, Trump has pleaded not guilty to 34 felony counts of falsifying business records in an effort to cover up the payments to keep Daniels and McDougal quiet about alleged affairs the women say they had with him. The trial is expected to last about two months, and if convicted, Trump faces up to four years in prison.

Because it’s a criminal trial, the former commander-in-chief must show up at court every day that it’s in session.

 

Speaking to reporters inside Manhattan Criminal Court the former president said, “This is an assault on America. Nothing like this has ever happened before. There’s never been anything like it. Every legal scholar said this case is nonsense, it should never have been brought. It doesn’t deserve anything like this. There is no case and they’ve said it, people that don’t necessarily follow or like Donald Trump said this is an outrage that this case was brought. This is political persecution … it is an assault of America.”

Protests Continue to Shape the American Experience and Culture

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Anti-Israel protesters blocked major thoroughfares across the US Monday, creating traffic jams for drivers trying to reach Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport and near San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge according to multiple major news outlets. It’s been reported that organizers of the protest said their goal was to send a message to Boeing, because the corporation sells weapons to Israel to be used in its war with Hamas.

“On this Tax Day, when millions are paying taxes which fund the ongoing US and Israeli bombardment of Gaza, protestors seek to take dramatic action,” the group Chicago Dissenters wrote in an Instagram post. “O’Hare International Airport is one of the largest in the country, and there will be NO business as usual while Palestinians suffer at the hands of American funded bombing by Israel.”

 

Protests – fiercely exercised and protected by the First Amendment – have played a significant role in shaping American culture throughout history. They have been a powerful force for social and political change, and have helped to bring about important reforms and advances. These on-going global protests aim to end the genocide and deliberate starvation efforts in Gaza that started as a was between Israel and Hamas on Oct. 7, 2023. The groups, including many journalists, White House staffers, State Department officials and Union leaders are also calling for an immediate ceasefire to allow aid into Gaza and other impacted regions of Palestine. 

Here are some of the ways in which protests have shaped American culture:

  • Raising awareness of social issues: Protests have helped to raise awareness of important social issues, such as civil rights, women’s rights, and LGBTQ+ rights. They have also brought attention to environmental issues, economic inequality, and other pressing concerns.
  • Mobilizing people for change: Protests can mobilize people to take action and demand change. They can create a sense of community and solidarity among protesters and build momentum for social and political movements.
  • Influencing public opinion: Protests can influence public opinion and put pressure on policymakers to address certain issues. They can also help to shift the national conversation and shape the way people think about important topics.
  • Promoting social justice: Protests have been a key factor in promoting social justice and equality in the United States. They have helped to challenge discriminatory laws and policies, and have contributed to the advancement of civil rights for all Americans.
  • Preserving democratic values: Protests are a vital part of a healthy democracy. They allow people to express their dissent and demand accountability from their government. They also help to protect democratic values such as freedom of speech and assembly.

Tennessee Farmers and Food Banks Lost Millions in USDA Funding

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Tennessee’s food banks lost millions of dollars in federal funding last year because state officials missed two deadlines to submit a plan to distribute the money.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) awarded Tennessee $108 million in emergency food assistance in 2021. The money was intended to help food banks and other organizations purchase food for people in need.

But Tennessee officials missed a deadline to submit a plan to the USDA on how the money would be distributed. As a result, the USDA reallocated the money to other states.

The loss of funding has had a significant impact on Tennessee’s food banks. Many food banks have had to reduce their services or close altogether.

The USDA has said that it is working with Tennessee officials to develop a plan to distribute the emergency food assistance funding. But it is unclear when the plan will be finalized.

In the meantime, Tennessee’s food banks are struggling to meet the needs of the people they serve. Many food banks are reporting that they are seeing an increase in demand for food assistance. The loss of federal funding is a major setback for Tennessee’s food banks. It is unclear how the food banks will be able to continue to operate without the funding.

Click HERE to read more.

Celebrating The Visible Black Women in Aviation

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Black women, like Bessie Coleman, have taken to the skies since the era of aviation broke dawn. The history of Black women in aviation is an important one, especially as part of a robust Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) movement to secure the sacred spaces Black women hold in industry and society. Black women have since time in memorial carried the heavy burden of discrimination, racism, inequality and outright mistreatment and misogamy that has historically blocked their access and participation at every level of man’s social construct.

With a feverish resistance to the DEI movement across the country, it is imperative that Black women are supported and protected. And in that spirit, it is fitting to recognize an important face in the aviation crowd: Chrystal Dunbar, OBAP Northeast Assistant Regional Director United Airlines – First Officer.

Dunbar is a first officer at United Airlines who got her start in aviation at Eagle Flight Pilot Training Academy in East Orange, NJ at the age of 13. According to her profile, “after receiving her pilot’s license, she went on to study at Daniel Webster College in New Hampshire. Chrystal graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Aviation Management/Flight Operations. After flying for Chautauqua Airlines for 5 years, Chrystal was hired by Continental Airlines (now United Airlines) in 2005. She is currently based in Newark, NJ and flying the Boeing 757 and 767 aircraft.”

The aviation industry has historically been dominated by men, and African American women have faced significant barriers to entry and advancement. However, in recent years, there has been a growing movement to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in aviation.

Challenges faced by African American Women Pilots

African American women pilots face a number of challenges, including:

  • Stereotypes and biases: African American women are often stereotyped as being less capable pilots than men. This can lead to discrimination in hiring, promotion, and other areas.
  • Lack of role models: There are relatively few African American women pilots, which can make it difficult for young women to find role models and mentors.
  • Financial barriers: Aviation is a male-dominated industry. This can make it difficult for African American women to access the financial resources they need to pursue a career in aviation.

Efforts to promote DEI in aviation

There are a number of efforts underway to promote DEI in aviation. These include:

  • Mentorship programs: Mentorship programs can help young African American women connect with experienced pilots and mentors who can provide guidance and support.
  • Scholarships and grants: Scholarships and grants can help African American women overcome financial barriers to pursuing a career in aviation.
  • Outreach programs: Outreach programs can help to increase awareness of aviation careers among African American women.
  • Industry initiatives: The aviation industry is also working to promote DEI through initiatives such as the FAA’s NextGen Diversity and Inclusion Initiative.

African American Women Pilots in Aviation

Despite the challenges they face, there are a number of African American women who have made significant contributions to aviation. These include:

  • Bessie Coleman: Bessie Coleman was the first African American woman to earn a pilot’s license. She went on to become a barnstorming stunt pilot and airshow performer.
  • Harriet Quimby: Harriet Quimby was the first American woman to earn a pilot’s license. She went on to become a famous air racer and set several world records.
  • Mae Jemison: Mae Jemison was the first African American woman to travel to space. She was a crew member on the Space Shuttle Endeavour in 1992.
  • Kimberly Bryant: Kimberly Bryant is the founder and CEO of Black Girls CODE, a non-profit organization that provides technology education to young African American girls.

The Future of DEI in Aviation

Chrystal Dunbar with her mom Joanne and daughter Isabella.

The future of DEI in aviation is bright. Dunbar who was supported by her mother Joanne to pursue a career in aviation is now supporting her own daughter, Isabella, who is also embarking on a successful career in aviation at Eagle Flight Squadron, Inc. There is a growing movement to promote DEI in the industry, and there are a number of African American women who are making significant contributions to aviation, including United Airlines First Officer, Chrystal Dunbar. With continued efforts, the aviation industry can become more diverse, equitable, and inclusive.

For those interested in pursuing a career in aviation can seek support and additional resources by clicking on the following links below:

NY Science Teacher Fulfills 1978 Eclipse Promise to Students

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In 1978, a dedicated teacher in New York promised his students an eclipse party on April 8, 2024 when the next total solar eclipse was scheduled to occur. “When he said we were going to meet for the eclipse and he held true to it, here we are,” Nancy Mintz said according to a Democrat & Chronicle article. 

Kendra Denson, of Rochester, who was in Moriarty’s class in 1984, cried as the eclipse took place. Later, she stood shoulder to shoulder with old friend Jennifer Heaphy, who is a current Webster teacher, reminiscing about the time they pranked Moriarty, getting him to dash out of his classroom because Denson had, falsely, fallen down a school staircase. “To see all the different classes join together — this was, to me, a true class reunion,” Denson said.

The Eclipse Promise:

  • Mr. Patrick Moriarty taught at the Webster Central School District in New York.
  • He promised his students in 1978 that they would have an eclipse party on April 8, 2024 when a total solar eclipse was set to occur.

A Memorable Experience:

  • Mr. Moriarty’s dedication and creativity made the eclipse party a memorable and educational experience for everyone who attended. “I thought it would be a nice little core of people who were totally into eclipses, and maybe they’d share the experience with me,” Moriarty said to the Rochester Democrat and Chronicle. “But it’s not about the eclipse any more. It’s about this. It’s about the sharing. It’s about the impact of teachers. It’s about so much more.”

A Lasting Legacy:

  • Mr. Moriarty’s eclipse party is now a legendary tale in New York and the Webster Central School District community.
  • It is a reminder of the power of teachers to inspire and motivate their students.
  • Mr. Moriarty’s eclipse promise is a testament of the immeasurable value and importance of teachers and an exemplary example of how one person can make a difference in the lives of many.

What to Know About the Solar Eclipse on April 8

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The solar eclipse of April 8, 2024  will be a total solar eclipse. It will be the first total solar eclipse to cross the United States since 2017, and it will be the first to cross the entire country since 1979.

The eclipse will begin at sunrise in Mexico and move across the United States, ending at sunset in Canada. The path of totality, where the Moon completely blocks the Sun, will be about 100 miles (160 km) wide and will cross 13 states:

  • Texas
  • Oklahoma
  • Arkansas
  • Missouri
  • Illinois
  • Indiana
  • Ohio
  • Pennsylvania
  • New York
  • Vermont
  • New Hampshire
  • Maine
  • Canada

The total solar eclipse will be visible for up to 4 minutes and 26 seconds along the path of totality. Observers outside the path of totality will see a partial solar eclipse, where the Moon covers only part of the Sun.

Safety

It is important to view a solar eclipse safely. Looking directly at the Sun, even during an eclipse, can cause permanent damage to your eyes. Never look directly at the Sun without proper eye protection, such as eclipse glasses or a solar filter. 

How to View the Eclipse

There are several ways to view the solar eclipse safely. You can:

  • Use eclipse glasses or a solar filter. Eclipse glasses are specially designed to filter out harmful ultraviolet and infrared radiation from the Sun. Solar filters can be attached to telescopes or binoculars to make them safe for viewing the Sun.
  • Project the image of the Sun onto a surface. You can do this by using a pinhole projector or a telescope.
  • Watch a live stream of the eclipse online. Many organizations will be broadcasting the eclipse live on the Internet.

What to Expect 

During a total solar eclipse, the Moon completely blocks the Sun’s light. This creates a dramatic effect, as the sky darkens and the stars become visible. The temperature may also drop suddenly, and animals may behave strangely.

The total solar eclipse of April 8, 2024 will be a rare and awe-inspiring event. If you are in the path of totality, be sure to take the time to experience it safely.

Native American Teachings on the Eclipse

How Scientists Need Your Help Observing the April 8 Eclipse 

People inside or near the totality can sign up to take part in at least four different projects, from watching animal behavior to photographing the sun’s corona, weather permitting, to recording the soundscape of the eclipse. There are also state-level projects being organized in Indiana, Ohio and elsewhere. Click HERE to learn about the Solar Eclipse Safari project and take part in the national effort to gather information from this rare celestial event.

Solar Eclipse Safari